Once-Weekly Subcutaneous Medication
Wegovy is a prescription medicine used with a reduced-calorie meal plan and increased physical activity to help adults with obesity or weight-related medical problems lose weight and keep it off.
1. How Wegovy Works
Wegovy mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). It targets the brain to increase feelings of fullness and slow down how quickly your stomach empties, helping you eat less.
- Indication: Adults with obesity (BMI >30 kg/m²) or those who are overweight (BMI >27 kg/m²) with weight-related medical conditions.
- Usage: Must be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
2. Dosage Escalation
Your doctor will gradually increase your dose over 16 to 20 weeks to help your body tolerate the medication:
- Weeks 1–4: 0.25 mg weekly
- Weeks 5–8: 0.5 mg weekly
- Weeks 9–12: 1.0 mg weekly
- Weeks 13–16: 1.7 mg weekly
- Week 17+: 2.4 mg weekly (Full maintenance dose)
3. Expected Clinical Results
In a 68-week clinical trial (STEP 1), adults without diabetes lost significantly more weight than those using diet and exercise alone:
| Treatment | Avg. Weight Loss (%) | Avg. Weight Loss (lbs)* |
|---|---|---|
| Wegovy Injection (2.4 mg) | 14.9% | ~33 lbs |
| Placebo | 2.4% | ~5 lbs |
*Based on a starting weight of 220 lbs.
Major Milestone: 1 in 3 adults (30%) taking Wegovy lost 20% or more of their total body weight.
4. Instructions for Use
- Dose: Inject once a week, on the same day every week.
- Site: Inject under the skin (subcutaneously) in your stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
- Timing: Can be taken with or without food, at any time of day.
- Storage: Store pens in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
5. Common Side Effects
Most common side effects include:
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Diarrhea or Constipation
- Stomach pain and Bloating
- Heartburn/Acid Reflux
- Fatigue and Headache
6. Important Safety Information
Boxed Warning: Thyroid Tumors Semaglutide caused thyroid tumors in animal studies. It is unknown if it causes these in humans.
- Do not use if you or a family member have ever had Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) or MEN 2.
- Tell your doctor if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing.
Other Serious Warnings:
- Pancreatitis: Stop use immediately for severe, persistent stomach pain.
- Gallbladder Problems: Such as gallstones.
- Kidney Stress: Dehydration from nausea can cause kidney issues.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Patients with Type 2 diabetes should monitor for vision changes.
- Pregnancy: Stop Wegovy at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy.
7. Comparison: Injection vs. Pill
- Frequency: Injection is Weekly; Pills are Daily.
- Convenience: Injection has no fasting requirements, making it easier for those with irregular morning schedules.
- Efficacy: Both forms show similar weight loss power, though the injection has been used longer for weight management.