Wegovy, a brand name for semaglutide, is part of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) drug family. Developed by Novo Nordisk, it received FDA approval in 2021 and was later authorized by the MHRA in September 2023 for adults struggling with obesity or weight-related health issues. This prescription medication is administered via a weekly injection, making weight loss management more accessible and effective.

Designed for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher, or at least 27 with associated health risks, Wegovy supports weight loss when combined with a calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity. The goal is to use it as a temporary aid, ideally for one to two years, before transitioning to long-term lifestyle adjustments focused on diet and exercise to maintain results.

WeGovy contains semaglutide, a compound that mimics the body's natural hormone GLP-1, which plays a key role in appetite control and blood sugar regulation. By activating GLP-1 receptors, WeGovy helps suppress hunger and increases feelings of fullness, making it easier to consume fewer calories and achieve weight loss.

Beyond appetite suppression, WeGovy also influences eating behaviour. It reduces impulsive or pleasure-driven eating (hedonic eating), enhances decision-making around food choices, and supports a more balanced response to hunger (homeostatic eating). These combined effects encourage healthier, long-term eating habits.

WeGovy is a prescription treatment designed to support weight loss and long-term weight management when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. While it is approved for individuals aged 12 and older, The Health-Hub Group provides this medication only to adults over 18.

This treatment is suitable for those classified as obese (BMI of 30 or higher) or overweight (BMI between 27 and 30) with associated health conditions like hypertension or type 2 diabetes. BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a tool used to assess weight in relation to height.

Patients using WeGovy should be evaluated after six months. If they have not lost at least 5% of their starting weight, healthcare providers will assess whether continuing treatment is beneficial based on individual health considerations.

WeGovy may not be suitable for everyone. It should not be used by individuals in the following situations:

• Trying to conceive, pregnant, or breastfeeding

• Allergic to liraglutide or any of the ingredients in WeGovy

• Currently taking other weight loss medications (e.g., Saxenda, Orlistat)

• Severe heart failure

• Aged over 75 years

• Kidney disease or undergoing dialysis

• Liver disease

• Digestive disorders that slow stomach emptying (e.g., gastroparesis, inflammatory bowel disease)

• Receiving treatment for weight management with other products

• Obesity caused by hormonal conditions, eating disorders, or medications that lead to weight gain

Other health factors may also affect whether WeGovy is right for you. Be sure to complete the consultation thoroughly so The Health-Hub Group’s prescriber can determine if this treatment is safe in your case.

WeGovy is administered once a week, on the same day each week, at any time of day, with or without food. It comes in a prefilled FlexTouch pen, available in five different strengths: 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 1.7mg, and 2.4mg. Each package includes one pen, four needles, and an instruction leaflet.

The FlexTouch pen is designed to deliver four weekly doses, meaning each pen lasts for a month. Treatment starts at the lowest dose and increases in 4-week intervals until reaching the full 2.4mg maintenance dose—a process that typically takes at least 16 weeks. This gradual increase helps reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects like nausea. If severe symptoms occur, the dose escalation can be slowed or adjusted.

Once the maintenance dose is reached, WeGovy should be continued to help achieve and sustain weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that patients experienced ongoing weight reduction for over a year while using the medication.

WeGovy is introduced gradually to help your body adjust:

• Week 1–4: Start with 0.25 mg once per week

• Week 5–8: Increase to 0.5 mg per week

• Week 9–12: Raise the dose to 1 mg per week

• Week 13–16: Move up to 1.7 mg per week

• Week 17 onward: Maintain the full 2.4 mg weekly dose

The liquid inside the pen should be clear and almost colorless. Store WeGovy in the refrigerator (2-8°C). After first use, it can remain at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to a month or be returned to the fridge. Do not freeze the pen.

How to Inject WeGovy

WeGovy is administered once a week as a subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injection. It can be taken at any time of day, with or without food.

Best Injection Sites:

• The abdomen (at least 5 cm away from the belly button)

• The front of the thighs

• The upper arm

You can use the same general area each week, but rotate injection spots to avoid irritation. Never inject into a vein or muscle.

For a step-by-step guide, watch the instructional video: How to Use WeGovy.

Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy can lead to significant weight loss, with patients shedding an average of 14-15% of their body weight. In a large trial conducted by Novo Nordisk, 611 participants were monitored over a 16-week dose escalation period, followed by 52 weeks of treatment. Throughout the study, all patients followed a structured program, which included an eight-week low-calorie diet, a 60-week reduced-calorie meal plan, increased physical activity, and behavioral counseling.

The results demonstrated remarkable weight loss success among those taking semaglutide:

• 33.9% of participants lost over 20% of their body weight

• 53.5% of participants lost more than 15%

• 73% of participants lost at least 10%

• 84.8% of participants lost over 5%

These findings highlight Wegovy’s potential to help individuals achieve and maintain substantial weight loss when combined with a comprehensive lifestyle program.

Potential Side Effects of Wegovy

Like any medication, WeGovy can cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Below is a breakdown of common and serious side effects to be aware of.

Common Side Effects (Affecting more than 1 in 10 people)

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation – These symptoms usually improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

• Headaches

• Abdominal pain or bloating

• Fatigue

If you experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, staying hydrated is essential—especially for individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.

Less Common Side Effects (Affecting up to 1 in 10 people)

• Dizziness

• Indigestion or stomach discomfort

• Burping and excess gas (flatulence)

• Heartburn or acid reflux

• Gallstones

• Hair loss

• Reactions at the injection site

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in individuals with diabetes

For a complete list of side effects, always refer to the patient information leaflet before starting treatment. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor or a healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects – Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Stop using Wegovy and contact a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

🔴 Pancreatitis – Symptoms include severe abdominal pain radiating to the back, nausea, and vomiting.

🔴 Gallbladder Issues – Signs may include upper right abdominal pain and discomfort after consuming fatty foods.

🔴 Severe Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) – While Wegovy is not a diabetes medication, it can lower blood sugar levels, especially in those taking insulin or sulfonylureas. Symptoms may include sweating, pale skin, rapid heartbeat, shakiness, confusion, or blurred vision.

🔴 Kidney Problems – Some users may experience changes in kidney function, requiring monitoring by a healthcare provider.

🔴 Diabetic Retinopathy – Individuals with diabetes may see worsening eye symptoms; regular eye exams are advised.

🔴 Increased Heart Rate – If you notice persistent rapid heartbeats, seek medical advice.

🔴 Severe Allergic Reactions – Symptoms may include swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash. This requires immediate medical attention.

If you experience severe or persistent abdominal pain, discontinue use and seek medical help right away.

The length of time you’ll need to take WeGovy depends on your personal weight loss goals and medical history. Your healthcare provider at The Health-Hub Group will help determine the appropriate duration based on your progress and needs.

Some individuals may use WeGovy for a set period to reach their target weight, while others might require long-term treatment for sustained results. To get the most benefit, it’s generally recommended to stay on the 2.4mg weekly maintenance dose for at least 12 months. However, treatment plans should always be tailored to individual circumstances.

If you forget a dose of WeGovy, follow these steps based on the time that has passed:

• If it's been 5 days or less since your missed dose, take it as soon as you remember, then continue with your usual schedule for the next dose.

• If it's been more than 5 days, skip the missed dose and proceed with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed one.

If you miss multiple doses, you may need to lower your starting dose when resuming treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider if you're unsure.