What is Wegovy and How Does It Work?
Wegovy is a medication specifically designed to aid in weight management. It is an injectable drug that has been approved by the MHRA for adults with obesity or those who are overweight and have weight-related medical conditions. The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide, which is also used in treating type 2 diabetes under different brand names.
How Wegovy Works
Wegovy works by mimicking a hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone is involved in regulating appetite and food intake. Here's a simple breakdown of how Wegovy works:
- Appetite Suppression: Wegovy helps to reduce appetite. It interacts with areas of the brain that control hunger, helping you feel full with less food.
- Slowing Stomach Emptying: It slows down the emptying of the stomach. This means food stays in your stomach longer, which helps you feel fuller for a longer period after eating.
- Hormonal Effects: By mimicking GLP-1, Wegovy helps to regulate blood sugar levels and fat metabolism, which can contribute to weight loss.
How to Use Wegovy
- Administration: Wegovy is administered once a week via a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected under the skin. It is usually injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
- Dosage: The dosage starts low and gradually increases over 16 to 20 weeks to reduce the chances of side effects and allow your body to adjust.
Benefits of Wegovy
- Weight Loss: Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy can significantly aid in weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
- Improved Health: Weight loss achieved with Wegovy can lead to improvements in various weight-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Potential Side Effects
Like all medications, Wegovy can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
These side effects often decrease over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, it's important to contact your healthcare provider.
Important Considerations
- Medical History: Always inform your healthcare provider about your medical history and any other medications you are taking. This will help ensure Wegovy is safe and appropriate for you.
- Lifestyle Changes: Wegovy is most effective when used in combination with lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
- Regular Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment as needed.