Wegovy® for Weight Loss: 14 Top Questions Answered
Dr. Matthew Olesiak, MD, is the Chief Medical Director at SANESolution, a renowned wellness technology company dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions for optimal living. Dr. Olesiak earned his medical degree from the prestigious Jagiellonian University Medical College in Kraków, Poland, where he developed a strong foundation in medicine.
Wegovy® (semaglutide) has become a promising option for certain individuals struggling with obesity or other weight-related health issues. But before starting any medication, it’s crucial to understand how it works and what to expect fully.
This article addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about Wegovy, helping you make informed decisions about your health.
Key Takeaways:
- Wegovy® is available for a subset of adults with a BMI of 30 or higher or those with a BMI of 27+ who have other conditions like type 2 diabetes.
- Certain patients may lose around 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks when using Wegovy®.
- Wegovy® is more promising for weight loss when used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Understanding Wegovy®
What is Wegovy®?
Wegovy® is a prescription drug made for weight loss and weight management in certain adults who are obese or overweight with other health issues. Beyond helping promote weight loss, Wegovy® may also play a crucial role in reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and even death in a subset of adults with established cardiovascular disease.
The active ingredient in Wegovy® is semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which helps support weight management and cardiovascular health.
How Does Wegovy® Work?
Wegovy® works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone in your body, which is responsible for regulating appetite and food intake. By decreasing hunger and increasing feelings of fullness, Wegovy can help you consume fewer calories, potentially leading to weight loss.
Additionally, it slows down the emptying of your stomach, which not only helps you feel fuller for longer but also supports postprandial glucose levels and insulin sensitivity. This dual action makes Wegovy® a potential tool in your weight loss journey.
Benefits of Wegovy®
Wegovy® offers a range of benefits that go beyond just losing weight. Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy® can help reduce body weight by 10-15%, making it a promising option for those of a certain Weight Loss Drug Type struggling with excess weight.
Wegovy® also helps support glycemic control, potentially reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. It may also help lower blood pressure, improve lipid profiles, and even enhance your quality of life by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wegovy®
You probably have some questions about Wegovy® and how it may fit into your health journey. Here are some of the most common ones we hear:
1. Who is eligible for Wegovy®?
Wegovy® is generally prescribed for compatible adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, which is classified as obese. It’s also an option for adults with a BMI of 27 or more if they have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. It’s important to know your Weight Loss Drug Type (quiz here) and consult your doctor to ensure it’s a good fit for you.
Certain health insurance plans may cover Wegovy for a subset of individuals who meet specific criteria related to BMI and health risks, with coverage more likely for those with Type 2 diabetes.
2. How long does it take to see results with Wegovy®?
Wegovy® works gradually, and individual results can vary. On average, certain patients can expect to lose about 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks.
Combining Wegovy with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity typically leads to the best outcomes.
3. Can I still exercise while taking Wegovy®?
Yes, exercise is actually encouraged while taking Wegovy®. Being active not only helps you lose weight faster but also supports overall health. Regular physical activity, whether it’s walking, swimming, or even yoga, pairs well with the medication.
4. What side effects should I be aware of?
Common side effects consist of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, particularly during the initial phases of treatment. These usually subside as your body adjusts. However, there are some more serious side effects, like pancreatitis or gallbladder problems, so make sure to keep your healthcare provider informed of any concerns.
Additionally, low blood sugar is a potential side effect, particularly when Wegovy is used with diabetes medications.
5. How is Wegovy® administered?
Wegovy® comes as a pre-filled injection pen that you use once a week. Your healthcare provider will show you how to inject it properly, and after that, you can do it yourself at home.
The dose is increased gradually over time to help minimize side effects.
6. Can Wegovy® increase the risk of thyroid cancer?
Wegovy® has an FDA-boxed warning due to the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors seen in animal studies. Although this has not been confirmed in humans, people with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer should avoid using this medication.
Always discuss your medical history with your doctor before starting Wegovy.
7. Is it safe to use Wegovy® if I have type 2 diabetes?
Yes, Wegovy® can be used by individuals with type 2 diabetes, but it’s important to monitor blood sugar levels closely. Since Wegovy can lower blood sugar, it may interact with other diabetes medications. Be sure to check in with your doctor regularly if you’re taking it along with other medications.
Additionally, Wegovy® may interact with other diabetes drugs, so it’s important to monitor blood sugar levels closely.
8. Can people without a gallbladder or those with hypothyroidism take Wegovy®?
Yes, people with hypothyroidism or without a gallbladder can typically take Wegovy® safely.
However, it’s always wise to discuss any pre-existing conditions with your doctor before beginning treatment.
9. Does Wegovy® affect menstruation?
Some women have reported changes in their menstrual cycles, such as irregular periods or spotting, while on Wegovy®.
However, more research is needed to determine if there’s a direct link between the medication and menstrual changes.
10. Is Wegovy® meant for long-term use?
Wegovy® is designed for long-term use as part of a broader weight management program.
Many patients see sustained weight loss and health benefits over time, especially when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
11. Do I need to follow a reduced-calorie diet while taking Wegovy®?
Wegovy® does not require a specific diet, but maintaining a balanced, reduced-calorie diet can support the medication’s weight-loss effects.
It’s important to make healthier food choices to support your overall progress.
12. Can I take Wegovy® with other weight loss medications?
While Wegovy® works well on its own, some people consider combining it with other weight-loss medications. It’s important to talk to your doctor before doing so to avoid any potential interactions or side effects.
Additionally, consulting a doctor before combining Wegovy® with other weight loss drugs is crucial to ensuring safety and efficacy.
13. Can I use Wegovy® during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Wegovy® is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while taking Wegovy®.
If a woman becomes pregnant while taking Wegovy®, she should stop taking the medication and consult her healthcare provider immediately. This ensures the safety of both the mother and the developing baby.
14. How do I access and store Wagovy®?
Wegovy® is available by prescription only and can be obtained through your healthcare provider. To ensure its effectiveness and safety, it’s crucial to follow the storage instructions provided with the medication. Wegovy® should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C).
If needed, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 28 days, but once it has been stored at room temperature, it should not be refrigerated again. Proper storage helps maintain the medication’s potency and ensures you get the best results from your treatment.
Conclusion
Wegovy® has quickly become a popular option for certain individuals looking to lose weight and improve their overall health. By addressing key concerns and making thoughtful lifestyle changes, you can maximize the benefits of this medication. Always work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure Wegovy® is right for you, and remember that combining it with a healthy lifestyle will yield the best results.
References
1- https://kentonbruicemd.com/10-frequently-asked-questions-about-semaglutide-wegovy/
2- https://www.verywellhealth.com/wegovy-semaglutide-for-weight-loss-8550138
