What is Wegovy?
Wegovy (Semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable prescription medication approved by the FDA for chronic weight management. It is designed to help individuals who struggle with obesity or excess weight lose significant weight and improve their metabolic health. Wegovy belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that regulates appetite and blood sugar.
How Does Wegovy Work?
Wegovy works by slowing down digestion, suppressing hunger, and promoting a feeling of fullness for a longer period after eating. It directly affects the brain’s appetite control center (hypothalamus) to help people reduce food intake naturally. Additionally, by delaying gastric emptying, it stabilizes blood sugar levels and reduces cravings.
Who Can Take Wegovy?
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (Obese Category)
- Adults with a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
- Not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome
Benefits of Wegovy
- Significant weight loss: Studies show an average weight loss of 15-20% of body weight over 68 weeks.
- Helps control overeating and food cravings, making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit.
- Improves blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, and metabolic disorders.
Possible Side Effects
While Wegovy is generally well tolerated, some users may experience:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (most common in the first few weeks)
- Constipation or bloating
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Possible thyroid tumors (rare, but a known risk)
Dosage & Administration
- Administered once a week via subcutaneous injection
- The dose is gradually increased over time to minimize side effects
Is Wegovy Right for You?
Wegovy is best suited for individuals who have struggled with weight loss through traditional methods and need a medically supported approach for long-term success.
