Wegovy and Weight Management: A Closer Look at This Prescription Solution

“Understanding Wegovy: The Science, Safety, and Efficacy in Weight Loss”

Wegovy is a brand name for semaglutide, a prescription-only medication, used as an effective aid for weight loss when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet, increased exercise and healthy lifestyle choices.

The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide which is a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It works by mimicking the actions of the GLP-1 which is released from the gut after you eat and helps regulate blood sugar levels. This in turn talks to your brain and tells you that you are full.  It regulates appetite, increases the feelings of fullness and curbs cravings which can lead to weight loss.

It serves as a crucial component to assist in weight reduction and the sustained management of a healthier lifestyle.

Here are some key points to note about Wegovy:

1. Indications: Wegovy is prescribed for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (considered obese) or those with a BMI of 27 or greater who also have weight-related medical problems (e.g., high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes).
2. Usage: It should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie meal plan and increased physical activity. In other words, it is not a standalone solution for weight loss but is part of a comprehensive approach to weight management.
3. Injection: Wegovy is administered by subcutaneous injection once a week following the dose escalation schedule. It comes in a prefilled pen and the injections are given just under the skin.  It should be injected once a week on the same day each week, at any time of day.
4. Efficacy: Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy can help individuals achieve significant weight loss. 90% of patients in clinical trials lost at least 5% of their body weight after using Wegovy for 6 months.  The exact amount of weight loss can vary from person to person.  The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended Wegovy for weight management for those living with obesity due to the highly positive trial results.
5. Safety and Side Effects: Like any medication, Wegovy has potential side effects, including gastrointestinal issues, nausea, diarrhoea, and potential changes in pancreas and gallbladder function. It is important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.
6. Prescription: You can only obtain Wegovy with a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider. It’s important to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about whether this medication is appropriate for your specific situation and any potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.
   Registered Pharmacies will only release Wegovy products upon the receipt of a valid, signed, prescription from a Registered and verified Prescriber.
7. Monitoring: Patients using Wegovy will typically be monitored by a healthcare provider to assess progress, manage side effects, and make adjustments as necessary.
8. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It should be not used in pregnancy because it may harm the foetus. Wegovy should be stopped at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy. You should not use this medicine if you are breastfeeding.
9. Contraindication: Pregnancy, allergy to semaglutide, a personal or family history of MTC-medullary thyroid carcinoma or patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
10. Weight Loss Products: Wegovy,  Saxenda and Orlistat are the only products available in the UK that are licensed for weight loss.
11. More about Wegovy: Information about this product, including adverse reactions, precautions, contra-indications, and method of use can be found at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/search?q=wegovy

Wegovy is one of many products in the growing field of pharmaceutical treatments for obesity.

Wegovy should be carefully considered in consultation with a healthcare professional. It is not a “magic pill” for weight loss but is intended to be used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes dietary changes and increased physical activity.