Wegovy is a prescription medication used for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents with obesity or overweight conditions and related health issues, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, is a synthetic version of a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone plays a key role in regulating appetite and food intake.
Wegovy works by mimicking the action of GLP-1, which targets areas of the brain involved in appetite control. As a result, it helps reduce hunger, increases feelings of fullness, and lowers calorie intake. This makes it easier for users to follow a reduced-calorie diet and increase physical activity, ultimately supporting weight loss and long-term weight control.
Wegovy is administered as a once-weekly injection under the skin (subcutaneous), usually in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Treatment typically starts at a low dose and gradually increases over several weeks to reduce the risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Wegovy is not meant for short-term use or for individuals looking to lose small amounts of weight for cosmetic reasons. It is intended for those with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition.
Clinical trials have shown significant weight loss results with Wegovy, especially when combined with lifestyle changes. However, it is not suitable for everyone. People with a history of medullary thyroid cancer, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), or those allergic to semaglutide should not use it.
Wegovy should always be used under medical supervision, as it may interact with other medications and requires ongoing monitoring for safety and effectiveness. It represents a modern and science-backed option for those struggling with obesity
🔢 Wegovy Dose Schedule (Titration Plan)
Wegovy is taken once weekly as a subcutaneous injection. To reduce side effects (especially nausea), the dose is gradually increased over 16–20 weeks until reaching the full maintenance dose.
Step Dose Duration
10.25 mg4 weeks
20.5 mg4 weeks
31.0 mg4 weeks
41.7 mg4 weeks
5 (maintenance)2.4 mgOngoing (long-term use)
⚠️ Notes:
Each step is meant to help your body adjust to semaglutide and minimize gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting.
If you cannot tolerate a certain dose, your healthcare provider may decide to delay or adjust the progression.
Do not skip doses or change them without medical advice.
Wegovy vs Ozempic
Active Ingredient: Both Wegovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Purpose:
Wegovy is approved specifically for weight loss in people with obesity or overweight (with related conditions).
Ozempic is approved primarily for type 2 diabetes management but may result in weight loss as a side benefit.
Dosage:
Wegovy has a higher dose (up to 2.4 mg weekly).
Ozempic is typically dosed at 0.5 mg to 2 mg weekly.
FDA Approval:
Wegovy: Approved in 2021 for chronic weight management.
Ozempic: Approved in 2017 for blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes.
Main Difference: While both help with weight loss, Wegovy is designed for weight loss, whereas Ozempic is designed for diabetes.
💉 Wegovy Injection
How it’s taken: It’s a once-weekly subcutaneous injection (under the skin).
Injection sites: Thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Rotate sites each week to avoid skin irritation.
Pen device: Comes pre-filled and easy to use, similar to insulin pens.
⚠️ Wegovy Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Constipation
Stomach pain
Headache
Fatigue
Serious Side Effects (rare, but possible):
Pancreatitis
Gallbladder problems (e.g., gallstones)
Kidney problems
Increased heart rate
Allergic reactions
Risk of thyroid tumors (especially medullary thyroid carcinoma)
Important: Wegovy should not be used in people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2 syndrome.
⚠️ Who Should Not Use Wegovy
Avoid using Wegovy if:
You or a family member has a history of a rare thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
You have been diagnosed with a hormone-related disorder known as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
You are allergic to semaglutide or any of the other ingredients found in Wegovy.
📋 Important Medical Information to Share Before Using Wegovy
Before starting Wegovy, inform your healthcare provider if you:
Have or previously had kidney problems or pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
Are living with type 2 diabetes, especially if you've had diabetic eye disease (retinopathy).
Have experienced depression, mood disorders, or suicidal thoughts in the past.
Are planning to undergo surgery or procedures that require anesthesia or deep sedation.
Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Wegovy may harm your unborn baby. Discontinue use at least 2 months before trying to conceive.
Are breastfeeding or plan to do so. It’s unclear whether semaglutide passes into breast milk.