Wegovy
What is Wegovy®?
Wegovy® is a weight loss medication from Novo Nordisk. It contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which is a GLP-1 analogue which means that it mimics the action of GLP-1. GLP-1 is a natural substance released in the body when we eat. Its function is to signal to the brain that we are full.
What is the story behind Wegovy®?
Wegovy® originated as the diabetes medication Ozempic®. During studies on Ozempic® for diabetes treatment, it was discovered that patients also experienced weight loss. Novo Nordisk, the company behind it, investigated the active ingredient, semaglutide, in a research study to see if non-diabetic patients would also lose weight which showed that it did. Subsequently, Novo Nordisk applied for permission to use the drug for weight loss, which was approved by EMA and FDA in 2022.
Who can get a prescription for Wegovy®?
There are two specific groups that eligible for a Wegovy® prescription:
1) Individuals with a BMI between 27 and 30, accompanied by a weight-related condition
or
2) Individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher.
Furthermore, several additional criteria must be met. For instance, candidates must have attempted weight loss without medication for at least three months within the past year.
What does Wegovy® cost?
The price of Wegovy® depends on the dosage. Each dose covers a four-week treatment period.
How does Wegovy® work?
Wegovy® works by reducing your appetite, leading to decreased food intake.
It achieves this by emulating the effects of the natural intestinal hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and signals satiety. By doing so, Wegovy® assists overweight individuals in lowering their energy intake (caloric intake), thus enhancing the possibility of creating an energy deficit and consequently shedding weight.
Can you drink alcohol while on Wegovy®?
It’s not inherently dangerous to consume alcohol while on Wegovy®, but it is not recommended during weight loss efforts due to its high energy content.
While on Wegovy®, there will be a limit to how much alcohol one can consume without adverse effects. Similar to food, alcohol contains energy (calories), so one cannot drink as much as before. If you have an event planned where alcohol will be consumed, it is advisable to “time” your injections so that you take them on Sunday.
However, it is important to reiterate that it is not generally advisable for health reasons, especially during weight loss, to consume large amounts of alcohol. However, a weight loss journey needs to be integrated into one’s normal life, which may include occasional social events. Therefore, it is essential to approach it realistically, ensuring that the weight loss journey remains manageable amidst life’s events.
How do I properly store Wegovy®?
Wegovy® should typically be stored in the refrigerator, but it can remain stable for up to six weeks at room temperature.
This means that if you intend to use Wegovy® within four weeks, as most individuals do, there’s no need to refrigerate it.
Does Wegovy® cause hair loss?
Evidence indicates that patients using Wegovy® may experience more hair loss than those not taking the medication. However, this is temporary and hair usually regrows upon discontinuation of the medication.
There is speculation that the hair loss is likely not directly caused by the medication itself, but rather a consequence of weight loss in general. When the body is in an energy deficit, it prioritizes other functions over maintaining optimal hair condition, potentially leading to hair loss. This is the current theory.
While it cannot be ruled out that a direct correlation may emerge between Wegovy®’s active ingredient, semaglutide, and hair loss in the future, there is currently no evidence supporting this.
Is Wegovy® offered in tablet form?
Wegovy® is solely administered via subcutaneous injection. However, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, is conducting studies to investigate the effects of semaglutide in tablet form for weight loss.
Currently, semaglutide is available in tablet form as a diabetes medication under the name of Rybelsus®
Can Wegovy® cause cancer?
There is currently no evidence from human studies suggesting that Wegovy® can lead to cancer or is carcinogenic. A recent comprehensive meta-study found no association.
While a study on mice showed a link between a GLP-1 analogue (the class of medication to which Wegovy® belongs) and thyroid cancer, a parallel study on primates receiving a much higher dosage did not result in cancer development.
However, as a precautionary measure, it is advisable to avoid this medication if you have a family history of thyroid cancer or if you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Does Wegovy® cause fatigue as a side effect?
Some patients may experience fatigue while taking Wegovy®. This fatigue can stem from various factors, with dehydration being a common one. Therefore, it’s important to ensure you are adequately hydrated while on Wegovy® (2-3 liters daily).
Is it safe to use Wegovy® during pregnancy or while planning to become pregnant?
Using Wegovy® during pregnancy is not advised due to a lack of scientific data on its effects on pregnant individuals or developing fetuses.
How quickly does Wegovy® work?
Wegovy® begins to take effect on the same day it is injected. Because it is administered subcutaneously (under the skin in fatty tissue), absorption occurs relatively quickly.
Weight loss can be expected as early as the first week, and the average weight loss remains consistent week by week, regardless of whether one is on the lowest or highest dose.
It is strongly discouraged to start with a higher dose than the lowest, as it is highly likely to result in severe side effects.
Wegovy® vs. Saxenda®?
Both Wegovy® and Saxenda® are GLP-1 analogues, but Wegovy® has shown significantly greater weight loss compared to Saxenda®.
Saxenda® is injected into the abdomen or thigh, similar to Wegovy®, but it needs to be taken daily, unlike Wegovy® which is taken weekly. On Saxenda®, one can expect a weight loss of approximately 5 kg over one year compared to patients who received a placebo.
How is Wegovy® administered, and are needles included?
The medication is administered using an injection pen along with a needle and should be injected into the fatty tissue beneath the skin on the abdomen or thigh. Before injection, the area should be cleaned with rubbing alcohol or washed with water and soap. There are four needles included in the package, and each needle should be replaced after each use.
Are there any side effects to Wegovy®?
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, dehydration, headache, and fatigue. More severe side effects, such as pancreatitis, are very rare.
Is Wegovy® safe to use?
While Wegovy® is generally considered safe, its usage requires monitoring and supervision by a doctor oversight by a doctor. Typically, about half of patients experience mild side effects such as nausea for a day or two, constipation, or headaches for a day. However, it is crucial to note the presence of potential serious side effects. Therefore, having prompt access to a doctor specializing in weight loss treatment is essential.
What is the difference between Ozempic® and Wegovy®?
Both Ozempic® and Wegovy® contain semaglutide, but they are approved for different purposes. Wegovy® is targeted for weight loss, while Ozempic® is intended for treating diabetes. The prices of these medications are comparable. If you have type 2 diabetes and have tried other diabetes medications, you may potentially be a candidate for Ozempic®, and in that case, you may be eligible for financial aid.
Can I purchase Wegovy® over the counter?
No, Wegovy® is prescription-only and can only be obtained after consultation with a doctor. After evaluation, a prescription for Wegovy® may be issued if you are deemed suitable for treatment.
Will I regain all the weight once I stop taking Wegovy®?
Patients who discontinue Semaglutide typically regain around two-thirds of the lost weight over approximately 1 year. However, this regain can likely be significantly reduced, or even avoided altogether. A recent Danish study (2024) investigating the GLP-1 medication Liraglutide alongside exercise showed that weight regain can be minimized by incorporating regular physical activity.