Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription injection medication designed to assist with weight loss. It works by mimicking a natural hormone in your body that helps regulate appetite, making you feel full sooner and reducing your hunger. This can help you eat less and support your weight management efforts.
The medication is typically prescribed for adults who are overweight or obese, especially if they have related health conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It is intended to be used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise to maximize weight loss success.
Wegovy is administered once a week through an injection. Our Pharmacinta Clinical Team will provide instructions on how to use the medication correctly and safely. It is important to follow their guidance closely to ensure the best results and minimize potential side effects.
Like all medications, Wegovy can cause side effects. The most common ones include nausea, diarrhea, and constipation, which are usually mild and temporary. If you experience any other adverse effects or if side effects persist, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting Wegovy to determine if it is appropriate for your personal health needs. Regular check-ups will help monitor your progress and ensure the medication is working effectively and safely.
To use Wegovy safely and effectively, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider carefully. The medication is administered once a week, on the same day each week, to maintain a consistent level of the drug in your body.
The dosage of Wegovy is gradually increased every four weeks over a period of 16 weeks. Initially, patients start with a 0.25 mg once-weekly dose for the first four weeks, and then the dose is gradually raised until reaching the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg once weekly starting from week 17. This careful escalation is important to help reduce the likelihood of side effects. If any side effects do occur, they are most likely to happen during the dose-increase phase and typically improve as treatment continues. Wegovy can be taken at any time of day and with or without meals, making it flexible to fit your schedule.
Before each injection, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Prepare the injection site, usually the abdomen, front of the thigh, or upper arm. Clean the skin with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry completely to prevent infection.
Use the pre-filled pen or syringe to inject Wegovy just under the skin (subcutaneously). When injecting, rotate the injection site each week to help prevent skin irritation and ensure better absorption.
If you accidentally miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember within the same week. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not inject a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Store Wegovy in the refrigerator, typically between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). If needed, it can be kept at room temperature for a limited time, away from direct sunlight. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions and consult them if you have any questions or experience side effects. Proper use and monitoring will help you get the best results safely.
Common side effects of Wegovy include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. These gastrointestinal symptoms are often mild to moderate and tend to improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
Some people may also experience a decreased appetite, which can be beneficial for weight loss. However, if appetite reduction becomes too severe, it may lead to nutritional deficiencies, so it's important to monitor your intake and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Rare but more serious side effects can include pancreatitis, which presents as severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back, along with nausea and vomiting. Allergic reactions are also possible and may include symptoms such as rash, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these serious symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Always report any persistent or concerning side effects to your healthcare provider so they can assess your condition and ensure your treatment remains safe and effective.
Wegovy should be used with caution in individuals with a history of pancreatitis, as the medication may increase the risk of developing this condition. Patients with severe gastrointestinal disorders or those prone to nausea and vomiting should discuss their medical history thoroughly with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
It is also important to inform your healthcare provider if you have kidney or liver problems, as these conditions could affect how you respond to Wegovy. Your provider can determine if the medication is appropriate for you and advise on any necessary monitoring.
Wegovy is not recommended for use in people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or those diagnosed with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2, due to potential risks associated with thyroid tumors. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare professional before using this medication, as safety during pregnancy and nursing has not been fully established.
Additionally, because Wegovy may cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), particularly when combined with other diabetic medications, regular blood sugar monitoring is advised. Starting the medication at a low dose and gradually increasing it can help reduce side effects, and all dosing should be done under medical supervision.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely and report any adverse effects or concerns promptly to ensure safe and effective use of the medication.
