Wegovy is an FDA-approved weight loss medication. The drug was developed by Novo Nordisk, one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies with a history of developing treatments for type-2 diabetes. Novo Nordisk specializes in the development of drugs called GLP-1’s, which have been shown to work well in managing insulin levels in type-2 diabetics. Novo Nordisk developed diabetes drugs called Ozempic and Rybelsus, both based on a molecule called “semaglutide.” They discovered that in overweight or obese diabetic patients, these drugs curbed appetites and led to remarkable weight loss properties. As a result, they decided to launch the molecule in a higher dosage under a new brand name specifically for weight-loss, in a drug called Wegovy.
How does Wegovy Work?
Semaglutide works by simulating the effects of the hormone your body produces when you eat food, called incretin. After you eat a big meal, your body releases incretin which signals the feeling of fullness and tells your brain to stop eating. In addition, it also helps to prevent the effects of insulin resistance which also contributes to a feeling of fullness and reduces cravings for sugary or unhealthy foods. Coupled with diet and exercise, Wegovy has been shown to have remarkable weight loss properties.
How do I take Wegovy?
Wegovy© is taken as a once-weekly injection. The drug is prepackaged into a pen with a needle. You simply place the pen on your stomach or thigh and press down. You do not need to measure the medicine or handle the needles yourself. Injection is relatively painless and the prepackaged pens make taking the medicine easy. You also only need to inject once a week, with no pills or other required medicines at other times.
How much weight do I lose on Wegovy?
Novo Nordisk reported that obese adults lost an average of 35lbs over a 68 week period with diet and exercise. 30% of users lost more than 20% of their body weight on Wegovy.
Wegovy Side Effects:
The majority of individuals who take Wegovy® typically experience minimal side effects. Nevertheless, some side effects are considered normal and not considered to be a serious health risk. The most frequent side effects that occur with Wegovy® are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, headache, fatigue, upset stomach, dizziness, bloating, belching or gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and loss of appetite. If any of these side effects become bothersome or persistent, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Your medical team can provide guidance and supportive care for any concerns that arise. In the event of severe side effects, such as anaphylaxis or breathing difficulties, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Wegovy Black-Box Warning:
WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C−CELL TUMORS. In rodents, semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether WEGOVY® causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined. WEGOVY® is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors.
