What is Wegovy prescribed for?
Wegovy serves as an injectable weight loss medication primarily targeted at adults suffering with obesity or excess weight, typically characterized by a BMI (Body Mass Index) exceeding 27. Additionally, individuals must exhibit at least one other weight-related condition, including but not limited to:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Certain cancers
- High cholesterol
- Gout
- Breathing problems
- Heart disease
Patients meeting both criteria are eligible for Wegovy prescription, offering a comprehensive approach to addressing weight-related concerns and associated health conditions.
How does Wegovy work?
Wegovy, prescribed for chronic weight management in overweight or obese adults with weight-related health issues, operates as a liquid solution housed within a single-dose pen. Administered via weekly subcutaneous injections, this medication mimics GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), a hormone pivotal in stimulating insulin release from the pancreas and inhibiting glucagon secretion, consequently slowing gastric emptying. By regulating blood sugar levels, GLP-1 also aids in appetite control. Individuals using Wegovy may experience reduced calorie intake and gradual weight loss over time, potentially improving weight-related conditions. Wegovy is most effective for optimal results when coupled with a healthy, reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise.
Dosages
Wegovy is a liquid solution for subcutaneous injection in pre-filled pens. It is offered in various dosage strengths:
- 0.25 milligrams per 0.5 milliliters of liquid solution (0.25 mg/0.5 mL)
- 0.5 mg/0.5 mL
- 1 mg/0.5 mL
- 1.7 mg/0.75 mL
- 2.4 mg/0.75 mL
Typically, doctors initiate treatment with Wegovy at a starting dose of 0.25 mg/0.5 mL. Patients administer this dose once a week for four weeks. Subsequently, every four weeks, the dosage strength increases. By week 17, patients may transition to a maintenance dose of Wegovy, typically at 2.4 mg once weekly.
Side effects of Wegovy
While Wegovy is effective for weight management, it may also present some side effects. If you experience any persistent adverse reactions, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider. Common side effects reported from Wegovy use include
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Burping
It’s important to note that this list may not encompass all possible side effects associated with Wegovy use. If you encounter any concerning symptoms or have questions about your treatment, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance and support.
How to inject Wegovy (Semaglutide)
Before starting treatment, carefully read the instructions in the patient information leaflet that comes with your Wegovy and follow any instructions from your doctor as well. When you’re ready to try your first dose, follow the steps below:
- Wash your hands.
- Decide on where you want to inject your first dose. You can choose from your lower abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Once you’ve decided, wash the area you’re going to inject with an alcohol swab or soap and water.
- Check the name and dose of your pen to make sure it contains your prescribed dose of Wegovy. Look through the pen window to ensure the liquid is clear and colourless.
- Remove the pen cap and push a new needle onto the pen. Turn the needle until it is tight. Pull off the outer and inner needle caps when ready to inject or check the flow. Check the flow with each new pen. You do not need to check the flow every time you inject, only the first time you use a new pen. Each pen will provide you with 4 weekly doses when used correctly.
- Turn the dose selector until the dose counter stops, and it shows your prescribed dose.
- Insert the needle into your skin. Ensure you can see the dose counter.
- Press and hold down the dose button until the dose counter shows 0. Keep pressing the dose button with the needle in your skin and slowly count to 6.
- Remove the needle from your skin. Carefully place the outer needle cap onto the needle, before removing the needle from the pen and disposing of it in a sharps bin.
- Place the pen cap back onto the pen and store out of sight and reach of children. The pen can be stored at a temperature below 30°C or refrigerator (2°C to 8°C) away from the cooling element.
Some extra advice:
- Store your injections in the fridge.
- Check your pen before using it in case it’s been broken, like if it’s been dropped.
- Avoid injecting into areas that are bruised, sore, hard, or scarred. Also, be careful not to inject into your muscles or veins.
- Don’t touch the needle cover to avoid accidentally pricking yourself.
- Don’t try and stop the injection halfway through because the needle locks once it starts.
- Make sure you switch up where you inject your Wegovy after each dose.