Wegovy is a weight loss medication that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is a formulation of semaglutide, a drug that was originally developed to treat diabetes. Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite.
Wegovy is intended for use in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater, or in those with a BMI of 27 or greater who have at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. It is meant to be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
In clinical trials, Wegovy has been shown to be effective for weight loss. In one study, participants who took Wegovy lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks, compared to 2.4% for those who took a placebo. In another study, participants who took Wegovy lost an average of 17.4% of their body weight over 68 weeks, compared to 8.4% for those who took a placebo.
Wegovy is administered once a week by injection. The starting dose is 0.25 mg, which is gradually increased over a period of 16 weeks to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. The injection can be given in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Like any medication, Wegovy can have side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. These side effects usually go away over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Other possible side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and thyroid tumors.
It is important to note that Wegovy is not a magic pill for weight loss. It is meant to be used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. It is also important to talk to your provider before starting Wegovy, especially if you have a history of pancreatitis or thyroid problems.
In conclusion, Wegovy is a weight loss medication that has been shown to be effective in clinical trials. It works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. Wegovy is administered once a week by injection and is meant to be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Like any medication, Wegovy can have side effects, so it is important to talk to your provider before starting treatment.