Wegovy, also known by its generic name semaglutide, is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for chronic weight management. It belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), which work by mimicking the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1.
Wegovy is administered once a week via subcutaneous injection and is designed to help individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater, or those with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
Benefits of Wegovy
Wegovy has shown remarkable efficacy in clinical trials, with participants experiencing significant weight loss compared to those who received a placebo. Studies have demonstrated that individuals treated with Wegovy lost an average of 15% of their body weight over the course of one year.
In addition to weight loss, Wegovy has been shown to improve various obesity-related health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. It can also lead to a reduction in the need for other medications used to manage these conditions.
Side Effects of Wegovy
Wegovy, like any medication, can cause side effects. These can range from mild to severe. The most common side effects of Wegovy may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, headache, fatigue, upset stomach, dizziness, feeling bloated, belching, gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and runny nose or sore throat.
More serious side effects can occur, although these are rare. These include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), pancreatitis, gallstones or swelling of the gallbladder, and increased heart rate. In rodents, semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, has been found to cause thyroid C-cell tumors. However, it is unknown whether semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans.
Wegovy vs. Ozempic: Understanding the Difference
Wegovy and Ozempic are both injectable semaglutide products. However, they have different dosage forms, strengths, and uses. Ozempic is used to treat type 2 diabetes and prevent major cardiovascular problems in certain patients, while Wegovy is used for weight loss and long-term weight management. They are both marketed by Novo Nordisk.
The main difference between Wegovy and Ozempic is the amount of semaglutide in each injectable dose5. Ozempic comes in a dosage form and strength of 2 mg/3 mL (0.68 mg/mL) single-patient-use pens (delivering 0.25 mg or 0.5 mg per injection). On the other hand, Wegovy comes in a dosage form and strength of 4 mg/3mL (1.34 mg/mL) single-patient-use pen (delivering 1 mg per injection), and 8 mg/3 mL (2.68 mg/mL) single-patient-use pen (delivering 2 mg per injection).
Shortage of Wegovy
There have been reports of a shortage of Wegovy due to increased demand. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy, has stated that they have made significant investments and have been steadily increasing capacity to produce more Wegovy than ever before. However, the supply is not anticipated to meet patient demand for the 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg dose strengths.
Despite the shortage, Novo Nordisk is confident that their actions will help even more people living with obesity in the U.S. They recommend that those who experience challenges filling their prescriptions speak with their healthcare professional about the best approach to their treatment.
Conclusion
Wegovy represents a significant advancement in the field of weight management, offering hope to individuals struggling with obesity. With its impressive efficacy and potential health benefits, this medication provides a valuable tool in the fight against obesity-related health conditions. While it is important to be aware of potential side effects, the benefits of Wegovy outweigh the risks for many individuals. If you are considering Wegovy as a treatment option, consult with your healthcare provider to determine if it is suitable for you.
Remember, weight management is a complex journey, and a holistic approach that includes lifestyle modifications, a balanced diet, and regular exercise is crucial for long-term success.
