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Over the last few years, GLP-1 agonists have burst onto the scene as an effective weight-loss tool. Wegovy® (semaglutide) is one of the most studied and widely used medications for chronic weight management today, helping many people reach elusive weight-loss goals and changing the conversation around weight loss and metabolic health.
What is Wegovy®?
Wegovy® is an injectable weight-loss medication developed by Novo Nordisk. It is part of a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. Today they are commonly used, at higher doses, for obesity treatment.
Most people are familiar with Ozempic®, which can be used off-label to treat obesity. Wegovy® contains the same active ingredient (semaglutide), but unlike Ozempic®, it is FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management, while Ozempic® is only approved for type 2 diabetes treatment.
How Wegovy® works
Semaglutide works by mimicking a gut hormone our bodies naturally produce: GLP-1. This hormone is released into the bloodstream after you eat, helping to regulate appetite, slow digestion, and control how your body processes sugar—all of which help with weight loss.
Here’s what this can mean for you:
- Reduced hunger and cravings. Fewer cravings and decreased appetite are common “side effects” of Wegovy® medication. Many people report that it helps quiet food noise and makes it easier to make better decisions about food.
- Increased satiety. Wegovy® slows gastric emptying (meaning food leaves the stomach more slowly), which helps you feel full for longer.
- Steadier glucose levels. GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar so you don’t have as many blood sugar spikes throughout the day.
Over time, these effects typically lead to reduced calorie intake and improved metabolic health markers—and therefore weight loss. Wegovy® works best when paired with a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise. A highly restrictive diet—including many fad diets that have dominated the wellness industry for years—is not necessary to achieve your weight-loss goals with Wegovy®, but getting your nutrients from the right sources is still important.
GLP-1s like Wegovy® work with your body’s natural hunger hormones, not against them, to make it easier to get actual results from your efforts. For many, GLP-1 agonists are the missing piece of the weight-loss formula they need to make real progress.
Approved uses for Wegovy®
Wegovy® is FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight who have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. Clinical trials have shown significant weight loss, with participants losing an average of 15% of their body weight.*
Wegovy® is a prescription medication and is prescribed only after consultation with a licensed healthcare provider to determine appropriateness. If you want to see if you qualify, fill out this quick form with your health goals and medical history and, if you qualify, a provider will recommend a personalized treatment plan—no appointment or waiting rooms needed!
Common benefits of Wegovy®
Wegovy’s effectiveness has been backed by multiple clinical trials. When paired with a healthy diet and exercise, study participants lost an average of 15% of their body weight.*
Other benefits aside from weight loss may include metabolic health improvements, cardiovascular health benefits, and fewer cravings.
Risks and side effects of Wegovy®
Wegovy® is not recommended for patients with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid weight-loss medications as well. Your provider will evaluate your medical history and goals before recommending the best treatment plan and medication for you.
As for common side effects, most are gastrointestinal, but can include any of the following:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue
- Headaches
These side effects are typically dose related and tend to ease with time as your body adjusts to the medication. Staying hydrated, eating smaller meals, and avoiding high-fat or greasy foods can help minimize side Wegovy® effects.
How Wegovy® is taken—dosing and administration
Wegovy® comes in convenient pen injections, which are self-administered once a week. Common injection sites include the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. While the injection site is largely up to the patient, it’s a good idea to rotate regularly to ensure consistent results.
Treatment usually starts at a low dose and is gradually increased every four weeks—or longer, if you need more time to adjust. Doses typically start at 0.25 mg and increase gradually until you reach your maintenance dose, which is around 2.4 mg weekly, or the highest amount you can tolerate comfortably. (See a sample Wegovy® dosing schedule here.)
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when taking Wegovy®:
- Inject on the same day each week, at the same time. This makes it easier to develop the habit and you’ll be less likely to miss a dose.
- Don’t double up if you miss a dose. If you aren’t able to take a dose at your normal time, take it as soon as you can. If it’s been two days since your missed dose, skip it and take your next dose as scheduled. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
- Follow the dosing plan set by your provider. Don’t adjust your dose without consulting with your provider first.
- Keep unopened pens in the refrigerator. Once you’ve started using a pen, follow the label instructions for storage. Usually it will need to be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
What happens if you stop taking Wegovy®?
Clinical studies show that weight lost on semaglutide can return after stopping treatment, particularly if lifestyle behaviors aren’t sustained. For some, long-term treatment may be the best option. For others, it’s better to taper off treatment once they’ve hit their weight-loss goal.
It all depends on what your goals are and how your body responds to treatment. Your doctor will work with you every step of the way to ensure you’re getting the treatment you need.
Lifestyle changes that make Wegovy® work better
You may have heard about dramatic weight-loss results from GLP-1 medications, but Wegovy® isn’t meant to be a quick fix or a magic bullet. In fact, those who make lifestyle changes alongside the medication typically see better results—and are more likely to maintain weight loss long term.
These lifestyle habits have been shown to help maximize Wegovy® results and minimize side effects:
- Eat more protein. Everyone’s protein needs are a little different, but if you’re making an effort to include protein in all of your meals and snacks, you should be in good shape.
- Drink lots of water. While uncommon, dehydration can happen while taking Wegovy® due to changes in appetite and digestion. Drink more water than you’re used to to ensure your body is getting what it needs to function properly. (This can also help mitigate side effects.)
- Stay active. Move throughout the day and work out regularly, incorporating both cardio and strength-training exercises. Strength training is especially important for those on a GLP-1, as weight loss can cause muscle loss.
- Sleep 7–9 hours per night. Poor sleep can put your hunger hormones out of whack, leading to late-night snacking that can stall your progress.
- Eat a nutritious diet. Most people eat less when they’re on a weight-loss medication like Wegovy®, so it’s more important than ever to make sure the nutrients you are consuming are the ones your body needs. Focus on foods high in fiber, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, and avoid ultra-processed foods that are high in calories but low in nutrients.
Remember: Your weight-loss journey doesn’t have to be solo! Support from friends, family, or a health coach can go a long way in helping you stick to your goals and to keep moving forward on the hard days.
Enhance your weight-loss journey with a Wegovy® Shed Membership
Weight loss is more complicated than most of us have been led to believe. This is why Shed offers a program specifically for Wegovy® users to give you the support you need to succeed at your weight-loss goals and establish long-term habits. The program includes provider visits, text-based Health Coaching**, educational resources, and a community of other members to interact with. (Medication is not included.)
If you’re ready to start your weight-loss journey, visit Shed’s website to see if you qualify for Wegovy® and to learn more about the membership program.
FAQs about Wegovy®
Is Wegovy® the same as Ozempic®?
No. Both contain the same active ingredient (semaglutide), but are FDA-approved for different uses. Ozempic® is approved for type 2 diabetes treatment and is typically prescribed at lower doses, while Wegovy® is approved specifically for weight management.
How much weight can I expect to lose on Wegovy®?
In clinical trials, participants lost an average of 15% of their body weight, but results vary depending on the individual and lifestyle.*
What foods should I avoid while taking Wegovy®?
There are no strict food restrictions, but high-fat, greasy, and sugary foods can make side effects worse. Focus on lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains as much as you can.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can and then take your next dose on your normal day. If it’s been more than two days since your missed dose, skip it and take your next dose as scheduled—don’t double up.
Is Wegovy® covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage varies widely. Check with your insurance provider and ask about weight-management medication benefits. Shed also offers affordable GLP-1 medications without insurance.
Resources and disclaimers
“Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity,” The New England Journal of Medicine, February 10, 2021. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
*Based on a 68-week study of adults with obesity or overweight who also had weight-related medical problems, including high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Learn more about the study here. Individual results vary.
**Text-based coaching is powered by AI and monitored by a licensed coach. Responses may be automated, but your coach reviews interactions to ensure quality and support.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication
