Wegovy - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide, a prescription weight loss medication approved by the FDA in June 2021.
- 2. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which works by decreasing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness, leading to reduced food intake and ultimately weight loss.
- 3. Wegovy is indicated for use in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or with a BMI of 27 or higher and at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
- 4. The recommended dosage of Wegovy is 2.4 mg once weekly, administered via subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
- 5. In clinical trials, patients taking Wegovy experienced an average weight loss of 15-17% of their initial body weight over a 68-week period, compared to 2-8% for those taking a placebo.
- 6. Common side effects of Wegovy include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, and headache.
- 7. Serious side effects may include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney problems, and suicidal thoughts or actions.
- 8. Wegovy is not recommended for use in pregnant women or individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
- 9. Patients taking Wegovy should also follow a reduced-calorie diet and increase physical activity to maximize weight loss benefits.
- 10. Wegovy is available by prescription only and should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider experienced in the management of obesity.