What is Wegovy and how is it used?
Written in association with:
Surgeon
Published: 13/08/2024
Edited by: Karolyn Judge
Wegovy is a prescription medication specifically designed for weight management. It contains the active ingredient semaglutide, a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone in the body known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). It plays an important role in regulating appetite, food intake and blood sugar levels.
Leading consultant surgeon Mr Sanjay Agrawal tells us all about it, in this informative article.
How does Wegovy work?
Wegovy works by mimicking the action of GLP-1, which helps to:
Reduce appetite: Wegovy acts on receptors in the brain to reduce hunger, helping individuals feel fuller after eating smaller amounts of food. Slow gastric emptying: The medication slows down the emptying of the stomach, which prolongs the feeling of fullness and helps control overeating. Regulate blood sugar: Although primarily used for weight management, semaglutide also helps in regulating blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
How Is Wegovy used?
Wegovy is administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) weight loss injection (under the skin) once a week. It’s usually given in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Here’s how the treatment process typically works:
Starting dose: Patients begin with a lower dose, usually 0.25 mg, to allow the body to adjust to the medication. The dose is gradually increased over several weeks. Maintenance dose: The maintenance dose, which is the dose used for the long-term, is 2.4 mg once a week. This is the target dose that has been shown to be effective for weight management. Duration: Wegovy is intended for long-term use, as weight management often requires ongoing treatment. The length of time a patient stays on Wegovy will depend on their weight loss goals and how well they tolerate the medication.
Who Is Wegovy for?
Wegovy is prescribed for adults who are:
Obese: With a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Overweight: With a BMI of 27 or higher and who have at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
Considerations and side effects
Lifestyle changes: Wegovy is most effective when combined with lifestyle changes, including a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Side effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These side effects are often mild and tend to decrease over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are important to monitor progress, adjust the dosage if necessary, and manage any side effects.
Wegovy is a powerful tool for weight management, particularly for those who struggle with obesity or weight-related health conditions. It is used as a weekly injection and works by reducing appetite, controlling hunger, and regulating blood sugar levels. When combined with lifestyle changes, Wegovy can help individuals achieve significant and sustained weight loss.
Considering Wegovy or other weight loss injections? Arrange a consultation with Mr Agarawal via his Top Doctors profile.