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Reviewed by Obesity research is progressing swiftly, yet the prevalence of this disease is increasing even more rapidly, with two out of three U.S. adults being overweight or obese.
Studies have shown that weight gain is not only about individual choices and responsibility, and specific genetic makeup can predispose individuals to obesity, especially when factors such as stress, increased availability of processed foods, and reduced physical activity are present.
When exercise and dietary changes prove insufficient for weight loss, healthcare professionals may prescribe medications like Wegovy, an FDA-approved drug for weight loss and type 2 diabetes. Can Wegovy be a viable option for you? Keep reading to learn how Wegovy injections can fit into your weight loss journey.
Table Of Contents:
What Is Wegovy?
Trade Name: Wegovy ยฎ
Generic Name: Semaglutide
Wegovy is a prescription medication that gained its FDA approval in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/mยฒ or greater or those with a BMI of 27 kg/mยฒ or greater who have at least one weight-related health condition, such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
Wegovy contains semaglutide and belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. This class of drugs helps regulate appetite and food intake. Wegovy manufacturer Novo Nordisk designed this medication as a once weekly subcutaneous injection on the upper arm, thigh or stomach with gradual dosing escalation to allow the body to adjust to the medication.
How Does Wegovy Work?
Obesity is a significant risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality, significantly contributing to major cardiovascular events (heart attack and strokes), diabetes, cancer, and chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, liver and kidney disease, sleep apnea, and depression.
Despite the substantial health impacts of obesity, weight loss using Wegovy medication can significantly reduce the risk of developing these comorbid conditions. Wegovy (semaglutide) mimics a natural hormone produced in the gut called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and blood sugar.
Here’s how semaglutide injections can help in weight management:
- Wegovy mimics the GLP-1 hormone, reducing hunger and increasing fullness by activating brain receptors.
- It slows stomach emptying, prolonging fullness and reducing overall food intake.
- Wegovy enhances insulin secretion and suppresses glucagon, helping regulate blood sugar.
Novo Nordisk Wegovy has not only shown effectiveness for weight loss but also in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke in overweight or obese adults with cardiovascular disease.
This led to its FDA approval for heart disease prevention. Adding Wegovy to standard medical care lowered the risk of heart attack and stroke by 20% over three years. On average, participants also lost nearly 10% of their body weight and had lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Wegovy vs Ozempic
Ozempic gained popularity in 2022 following a Wegovy shortage, and its sales have continued to rise steadily since then. Wegovy and Ozempic, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, share the active ingredient liraglutide but are approved for different uses and have distinct dosing regimens.
Although people look for Ozempic to lose weight, this medication is exclusively FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is only covered by insurance for this specific use. Yet, Wegovy is the one that is specifically FDA-approved for chronic weight management.
Key differences of Ozempic vs Wegovy include:
- Wegovy gradually increases over 16-20 weeks to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg once weekly.
- Ozempic doses are 0.5 or 1 mg once weekly, potentially increasing to 2 mg if necessary.
- Wegovy was approved by the FDA in 2021 specifically for chronic weight management.
- Ozempic was approved by the FDA in 2017 for treating type 2 diabetes.
- Wegovy needs a higher maintenance dose compared to Ozempic.
- Ozempic coverage for diabetes might be more common.
- Coverage for weight management drugs like Wegovy might require prior authorization.
How Much Weight Can You Lose On Wegovy?
A study of 2,000 obese adults compared those using semaglutide plus a diet and exercise program with those who made the same lifestyle changes without semaglutide.
After 68 weeks, half of the participants using semaglutide lost 15% (~37.479 lb.) of their body weight, and nearly a third lost 20%. In contrast, those who only made a reduced calorie diet and lifestyle changes lost about 2.4% of their weight. Most of this weight loss occurred in the first 6 months.
Wegovy has demonstrated sustained benefits, with approximately 77% of patients on Wegovy maintaining at least a 5% weight loss at the two-year mark.
Wegovy Dosing and Schedule
Wegovy is available as prefilled, disposable pens containing a liquid solution. Wegovy injection pens come in 5 different dose strengths, ranging from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg, and each dose comes in a different color pen.
The table below shows the drug manufacturer’s proposed Wegovy dosage schedule. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to administer your Wegovy doses safely.
| Time (Months) | Strength (mg) |
|---|---|
| Month 1 (starting dose) | Green pen of 0.25mg |
| Month 2 (gradual dose escalation) | Pink pen of 0.5mg |
| Month 3 (gradual escalation) | Maroon pen of 1mg |
| Month 4 (maintenance dose) | Blue pen of 1.7mg |
| Month 5+ (maintenance dose)** | Black pen of 2.4mg |
*Once weekly
**From the fifth month onward, your healthcare provider may keep your Wegovy doses at 1.7 mg or increase it to 2.4 mg.
How Much Does Wegovy Cost?
The Wegovy price can vary depending on several factors, including insurance coverage, pharmacy pricing, and location. Without insurance, the average monthly Wegovy cost is approximately $1,349 for a 28-day supply ($16,188/ year). However, insurance or manufacturer discounts may significantly lower out-of-pocket costs.
It’s important to check with your healthcare provider, insurance company, or pharmacy for the most accurate and personalized pricing information. Additionally, Novo Nordisk offers savings programs for you to pay as little as $0 or save up to $225 per 28-day supply for 13 fills. Consult eligibility for a Wegovy coupon for a discount.
How to Get Wegovy Covered By Insurance?
If Wegovy is a viable option for you but the list price is unaffordable, securing insurance coverage can provide a solution. To get Wegovy covered by insurance, start by thoroughly understanding your insurance plan and its coverage for weight management medications.
Check Wegovy’s formulary status and request its addition if necessary. Coordinate with your healthcare provider to submit a detailed prior authorization request, including medical records, weight history, BMI, and relevant health conditions. Follow the insurance companyโs appeals process with supplementary documentation if initially denied.
Wegovy Side Effects and Risks
Wegovy is contraindicated in individuals with a personal or family history of a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Wegovy side effects may include, but not limited to:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dyspepsia (indigestion)
- Dizziness
- Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Make regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Wegovy and promptly address any emerging concerns.
Wegovy Precautions and Tips
A couple of safety tips can help you navigate the administration and maintenance of Wegovy pens while also maximizing the benefits of this medication:
- Keep refrigerated at 36ยฐF to 46ยฐF (2ยฐC to 8ยฐC) until use. Do not freeze.
- Each pen is for single patient use only. Do not share pens or needles.
- Check the expiration date before each use. Do not use it if expired.
- Rotate injection sites to avoid skin thickening, infections or lumps (abdomen, thigh or upper arm).
- Consult a healthcare provider before taking it with other medications.
- For missed Wegovy doses, consult the manufacturerโs instructions.
- Do not exceed the prescribed dosage to avoid potential adverse effects.
- Maintain a balanced diet and incorporate weight and strength training to prevent sarcopenia.
- Safely discard needles in a puncture-proof container to avoid accidents.
Wegovy Weight Loss โ Bottom Line
While Wegovy helps manage chronic obesity, it is crucial to use it responsibly and under medical supervision. It should only be prescribed to individuals who meet specific criteria for obesity management, including a high BMI or weight-related health conditions.
Wegovy is not intended for individuals with normal weight or blood sugar levels, as data on its effects in these groups is limited. For sustainable weight loss, lifestyle changes such as diet modification and increased physical activity ensure long-term success and overall health.
If you are gaining weight due to a food addiction or binge eating disorder, seek help from a healthcare provider or organizations like the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). These resources offer support and guidance to address underlying behavioral and psychological factors contributing to weight management challenges.
People Also Ask
What is Wegovy used for?
Wegovy is used for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI โฅ30) or overweight (BMI โฅ27) and at least one weight-related condition. It is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Is Wegovy the same as Ozempic?
Wegovy and Ozempic both contain semaglutide, but Wegovy is prescribed for weight management, while Ozempic is used for controlling blood sugar in type 2 diabetes and reducing cardiovascular risks.
How do you get $25 Wegovy?
Access the $25 Wegovy offer through Novo Nordisk’s savings program. Visit their official website, sign up for the savings card, and present it at participating pharmacies. Eligibility criteria apply.
Page Sources
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- Research, C. F. D. E. A. (2024, January 10). Medications containing semaglutide marketed for type 2 diabetes or weight loss. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss
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