Wegovy for Weight Loss: Everything You Need to Know

Wegovy (semaglutide) is one of the most effective prescription options for weight loss available today. Unlike many other treatments, it is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity, or in those who are overweight with a related health condition.

What sets Wegovy apart is that it’s the only version of semaglutide approved for weight loss. Other semaglutide-based medications, such as Ozempic (injection) and Rybelsus (tablet), are approved only for managing type 2 diabetes, though they may lead to weight loss as a side effect.

In this article, we’ll cover all of the Wegovy basics: how it works, the recommended dosage, and potential side effects, so you can better understand if it might be the right option for you.

How does Wegovy cause weight loss?

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, works by mimicking a natural hormone called GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. By mimicking GLP-1, Wegovy helps support weight loss in two main ways: blood sugar management and appetite reduction.

• Blood sugar management: Semaglutide helps the pancreas release insulin, a hormone that moves glucose (sugar) from the blood into cells for energy. It also reduces glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar by prompting the liver to release stored glucose. These actions keep blood sugar levels stable and prevent hunger cravings from low blood sugar.
• Appetite reduction: Semaglutide acts on certain receptors in the brain, especially in the hypothalamus (which regulates hunger and fullness). It signals to these receptors that you are full, which reduces your desire to keep eating food. Semaglutide also slows down your motility (how quickly food moves through your gut). Because food stays in the stomach longer, people feel full for longer, making it easier to eat less and reduce calorie intake.

Is Wegovy safe?

Wegovy has been FDA-approved for use in adults and children over 12. Wegovy's safety and effectiveness were tested in four clinical trials. The trials involved around 4,500 people who were either obese or overweight. In three of these studies, some participants received Wegovy, while others received a placebo.

n these three studies, between 67.4% and 84.8% of people who took Wegovy lost 5% or more of their body weight over 68 weeks. In comparison, fewer people who took the placebo (between 30.2% and 47.8%) achieved this weight loss.

In another study, some participants took Wegovy and others took a placebo. Those on Wegovy experienced a 7.9% drop in body weight from week 20 to week 68. In comparison, the placebo group's weight dropped by 6.9%.

Overall, Wegovy was found to be safe and well-tolerated. However, it may cause side effects in some people.

Wegovy's most common side effects are gastrointestinal issues. These issues include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, and belching.

More serious side effects may occur, but they are uncommon. Some serious adverse effects of Wegovy use include:

• Increased heart rate
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulties)
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Gallbladder problems, including gallstones
• Increased risk of thyroid cancer

If you experience any side effects while taking Wegovy, immediately seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare provider.

What should I consider before taking Wegovy?

While Wegovy is safe and effective for most patients, it can cause side effects in some. It may also interact with certain medical conditions or substances in the body, causing adverse reactions.

Before starting treatment with any prescription medication, tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have. Also, let your doctor know about any prescription drugs or supplements you are taking, and any allergies you may have. This information will help reduce the risk of any adverse reactions.

You should mention:

• A history of pancreatitis
• Gallbladder problems
• Kidney disease
• Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) (thyroid tumors)
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 (MEN2)
• Diabetic retinopathy (eye problems)
• Any digestive disorders

Wegovy may not be prescribed to pregnant women, women who are trying to conceive, or women who are breastfeeding.

Who should take Wegovy for weight loss?

Wegovy is specifically indicated for use in adults with obesity (a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or greater) or overweight (a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater) who also have weight-related health conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, or obstructive sleep apnea.

Wegovy is also approved for use in children over 12 with an initial BMI in the 95th percentile for their age.

By helping patients lose weight, Wegovy can also lower the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attack or heart disease.

What is the recommended dosage of Wegovy?

Wegovy is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. It is delivered just below the skin using a pre-filled injection pen. Healthcare providers will usually prescribe a lower dosage of Wegovy at first, which will be increased over several weeks.

The recommended starting dose for Wegovy is 0.25 mg weekly for the first 4 weeks. After the initial 4-week period, the dose should be increased to 0.5 mg weekly for the next 4 weeks. After another 4 weeks, the dose should be increased to 1 mg weekly.

Finally, after an additional 4 weeks, the dose should be increased to the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg per week.

Wegovy should be injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It can be taken at any time of the day, with or without food. Talk to your healthcare provider if you experience side effects while taking Wegovy. They may elect to reduce your dosage or try an alternate therapy to help you lose weight.

What’s the difference between Wegovy and other GLP-1 weight loss medications?

There are currently two other GLP-1 medications that are approved for weight loss: Saxenda (liraglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide). Wegovy is generally considered more effective than Saxenda, and slightly less effective than Zepbound.

For example, Saxenda users lost about 6% of their weight during a 68-week study, while Wegovy users lost closer to 16% of their weight. Meanwhile, Zepbound users lost around 20% of their weight during a 72-week study, while Wegovy users lost around 14% during the same study.

There are also non-GLP-1 weight loss medications, such as Contrave (bupropion/naltrexone). However, Wegovy has been proven to lead to greater weight loss than non-GLP-1 medications during clinical trials.

What are the alternatives to Wegovy?

Wegovy is specifically indicated as a chronic weight management aid. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. If you are looking for an alternative to Wegovy, discuss these options with your healthcare provider:

Tirzepatide (available as Mounjaro or Zepbound): Tirzepatide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, is utilized to manage both type 2 diabetes and obesity. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, curbs appetite, and slows stomach emptying. The brand name Zepbound contains tirzepatide. It is specifically approved to treat obesity in patients who do not have type 2 diabetes.

Liraglutide (available as Saxenda): Liraglutide, also a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has FDA approval for treating obesity in adults and adolescents aged 12 and above. It reduces blood sugar levels, suppresses appetite, and delays stomach emptying.

Metformin: Metformin, a prescription diabetes medication, can lead to weight loss in some individuals. It achieves this by regulating blood sugar levels and enhancing insulin sensitivity. Increased insulin usage helps lower the amount of sugar circulating in the bloodstream.

Topiramate (available as Topamax): Topiramate is an anticonvulsant drug that has demonstrated weight loss effects in certain patients. The way it works is not entirely understood. It is believed to reduce calorie intake through appetite suppression. It is also believed to prevent excess fat storage and lower particular fat and cholesterol levels. It may also impact the brain's reward system, potentially reducing binge eating. It's important to note that Topiramate is not FDA-approved as a weight loss medication. Still, clinical trials have shown it can lead to significant weight loss in individuals who take it compared to those on a placebo.

Contrave (bupropion/ naltrexone): Contrave is a combination drug consisting of two active ingredients, bupropion and naltrexone. Both of these drugs have a distinct mechanism that contribute to its weight loss effects. Contrave primarily works on the brain to control appetite and reduce cravings for high-calorie foods. Contrave may cause some serious side effects, including suicidal thoughts.

How do I get a prescription for Wegovy?

Wegovy is a prescription drug, meaning that you must have a written order from a licensed healthcare provider to get it. It cannot be purchased over the counter.

Weight loss drugs are prescribed to individuals with obesity or individuals who are overweight and managing a weight-related health condition. If you are curious about Wegovy or any other weight loss drug, talk to your healthcare provider. Ask whether these treatment options are right for you. You should also discuss the cost, potential side effects, and any concerns you may have.

How Sesame can help

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Maintaining a healthy weight can lead to significant health benefits, including a lower risk of heart disease, improved mobility, better sleep, and enhanced overall well-being. Get started on your weight loss journey today. Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.