Quick summary

Type of medicine

GLP-1 receptor agonist

Works by

Reduces hunger and increases feelings of fullness.

Active ingredient

Semaglutide

Effective within

Within a few weeks.

Generic?

No

Side effects

The most common side effects are headache, nausea (feeling sick), vomiting, diarrhoea, constipations and abdominal (belly) pain.

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Medication details

Description

Wegovy is a once-weekly injectable treatment made by Novo Nordisk that can help support weight loss. It’s prescribed for adults with obesity, or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition.

Wegovy contains semaglutide, an active ingredient that helps you feel fuller for longer and reduces appetite. The injection pen is simple to use and only needs to be taken once a week. When used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise, Wegovy has been shown in clinical studies to help people lose weight and improve their overall health.

Direction of use

Wegovy is given as a small injection just under the skin, taken once a week at the same time each week. The injection can be administered in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Your dosage is personalised and set by your prescriber, based on your individual needs and response to treatment. For best results, Wegovy is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, following guidance from your clinical prescriber.

Ingredients

Wegovy contains the active ingredient semaglutide and is supplied in pre-filled injection pens. It is available in strengths of 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg in a 0.5 mL solution, as well as 1.7 mg and 2.4 mg in a 0.75 mL solution. In addition to semaglutide, the formulation includes disodium phosphate dihydrate, sodium chloride, hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide (used for pH adjustment), and water for injections.

Side effects

Some common side effects of Wegovy (semaglutide) may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. Other possible side effects can include abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, fatigue, dizziness, and headaches. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences side effects, and some people may have none at all.

Warnings

Wegovy has important safety warnings. It should not be used in people with a history of MTC or MEN2. Seek medical advice for severe abdominal pain. Blood sugar levels may be affected, particularly in people with diabetes. Wegovy should not be used during pregnancy; consult a healthcare professional if breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to see noticeable results with Wegovy FlexTouch?

Results may vary from person to person. Some individuals may start experiencing weight loss within a few weeks of using Wegovy FlexTouch, while others may take longer. Consistency in medication use, combined with a healthy lifestyle, is key to achieving and maintaining weight loss.

Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Wegovy?

While there are no specific dietary restrictions with Wegovy, it's recommended to follow a reduced-calorie diet as advised by your healthcare provider to enhance weight loss efforts.

How does Wegovy help with weight loss?

Wegovy works by mimicking a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1, which regulates appetite and food intake. By acting on the hunger centers in your brain and slowing down how fast your stomach empties, it helps you feel fuller for longer and reduces cravings. This makes it physically easier to eat smaller portions and stick to a reduced-calorie diet without constantly fighting against hunger.

Why does the dose increase over time?

You will not start on the full strength immediately. To give your body time to adjust to the medication and minimize potential side effects like nausea, you begin with a low starting dose. This dose is gradually increased every four weeks until you reach the standard maintenance dose. This step-by-step approach is essential for ensuring the treatment remains comfortable and safe for you.

How often do I need to inject it?

Wegovy is designed for convenience and only requires one injection per week. You administer it yourself under the skin (subcutaneously), typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The pen is designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to easily fit the treatment into your weekly routine without needing frequent doctor visits.

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