Wegovy (Semaglutide) for Weight Loss
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription medication used to support weight loss and long-term weight management. It belongs to a class of medicines known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a naturally occurring hormone in the body that regulates appetite and food intake.
Wegovy is designed for adults living with overweight or obesity and is used alongside healthy lifestyle changes such as improved nutrition and increased physical activity. The treatment is given as a once-weekly injection, allowing for consistent and convenient weight management support.
How Wegovy Works
Wegovy works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which plays an important role in appetite regulation and metabolism.
It supports weight loss in several ways:
1. Reduces appetite
Wegovy acts on appetite centres in the brain to help reduce hunger and food cravings.
2. Increases feelings of fullness
The medication slows the rate at which the stomach empties, helping you feel fuller for longer after eating.
3. Supports blood sugar regulation
It helps the body release insulin more effectively and improves the way the body manages glucose.
Together, these effects help reduce calorie intake and support gradual, sustainable weight loss.
Clinical Results
Wegovy has been extensively studied in large clinical trials and has demonstrated significant weight loss outcomes when combined with lifestyle changes.
In major studies of adults living with overweight or obesity:
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Participants lost around 15% of their body weight on average over approximately 68 weeks.
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Many individuals achieved 10–15% weight loss, which is associated with meaningful improvements in overall health.
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Improvements were also observed in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar control.
Results vary between individuals depending on factors such as starting weight, treatment adherence, and lifestyle habits.
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Wegovy may cause side effects. These are typically mild to moderate and often improve as the body adjusts to treatment.
Common side effects may include:
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Diarrhoea
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Constipation
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Abdominal discomfort
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Headache
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Fatigue
To minimise side effects, treatment usually begins at a lower dose which is gradually increased over time under clinical supervision.
Serious side effects are uncommon but will be discussed during your consultation with a clinician.
Who May Qualify for Treatment
Wegovy may be suitable for adults who:
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Have a BMI of 30 or above, or
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Have a BMI of 27 or above with weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure, prediabetes, or sleep apnoea.
Treatment may not be suitable for individuals who:
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Are pregnant or breastfeeding
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Have certain endocrine or gastrointestinal conditions
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Have a personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers
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Are taking medications that may interact with GLP-1 treatments
Before starting treatment, all clients must complete a medical questionnaire and consultation with a qualified clinician to ensure the medication is safe and appropriate for their health needs.
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