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Semaglutide Novo Nordisk

Wegovy®

The Proven GLP-1 for Weight Loss

Wegovy® (semaglutide) is FDA-approved for chronic weight management—the same medication as Ozempic at higher doses optimized specifically for weight loss.

Regulates appetite
Balances blood sugar
Reduces cravings
15-17% average weight loss
Once Weekly Injection
$175 Per month
Save 87% vs. ~$1350 retail

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy was the first GLP-1 medication FDA-approved specifically for weight loss in adults with obesity. It contains semaglutide, a proven GLP-1 receptor agonist that has helped millions achieve significant, sustainable weight loss.

Clinical Trial Results

In the STEP trials, patients taking Wegovy lost an average of 15-17% of their body weight over 68 weeks—roughly 35 pounds for the average participant.

FDA Approved For

  • Chronic weight management in adults with BMI ≥30
  • Chronic weight management in adults with BMI ≥27 with at least one weight-related condition
  • Reduction of cardiovascular events in adults with established cardiovascular disease and obesity/overweight

Quick Facts

Generic Name
Semaglutide
Manufacturer
Novo Nordisk
Drug Class
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Frequency
Once Weekly

Benefits of Wegovy

1

FDA-approved specifically for weight loss

2

Proven 15-17% average body weight reduction

3

Established safety profile with years of data

4

Once-weekly convenient injection

5

Significant appetite and craving reduction

6

Cardiovascular benefits (reduced heart attack/stroke risk)

7

Improvement in blood pressure and cholesterol

8

Well-studied with extensive clinical trial data

How Wegovy Works

Wegovy mimics the GLP-1 hormone your body naturally produces after eating. It works on the brain to reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, while also slowing stomach emptying. This creates a powerful combination that helps you eat less without feeling deprived.

Ideal Candidates

  • Adults with BMI ≥30 seeking proven weight loss medication
  • Adults with BMI ≥27 with hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol
  • Patients who want FDA-approved weight loss indication
  • Those with cardiovascular disease wanting proven heart benefits
  • People who prefer the most-studied GLP-1 medication

Not Recommended For

  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
  • Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2
  • Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant
  • Currently breastfeeding
  • History of pancreatitis
  • Severe gastrointestinal disease

Safety Information

Black Box Warning

Semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether Wegovy causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans. Wegovy is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with MEN 2.

Common Side Effects

Most side effects improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

  • Nausea ~44%
  • Diarrhea ~30%
  • Vomiting ~24%
  • Constipation ~24%
  • Abdominal pain ~20%

Serious Side Effects

Rare but important. Contact your provider if you experience any of these.

  • Pancreatitis - stop use for severe, persistent abdominal pain
  • Gallbladder problems - especially with rapid weight loss
  • Kidney injury - particularly if dehydrated from vomiting/diarrhea
  • Hypoglycemia - when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas
  • Allergic reactions - swelling, rash, difficulty breathing

Frequently Asked Questions

Both contain semaglutide. Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss and goes to a higher dose (2.4mg) than Ozempic (max 2mg), which is approved for diabetes. At Premier Weight Loss, we can prescribe either based on your situation.

Both are excellent FDA-approved weight loss medications. Zepbound (tirzepatide) shows slightly higher weight loss in trials (20-22% vs 15-17%) due to its dual-action mechanism, but costs more. Many patients do very well on either.

Most patients notice reduced appetite within 1-2 weeks. Visible weight loss typically begins around weeks 4-8. Maximum results develop over 12-18 months as you reach and maintain the full dose.

Yes! The SELECT trial showed Wegovy reduces major cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke) by 20% in adults with obesity and established heart disease. This is a significant benefit beyond weight loss.

Studies show most people regain weight after stopping, similar to stopping blood pressure medication. That's why we approach this as long-term management, working with you to find a sustainable plan.

Ready to Start Wegovy?

Take our quick eligibility quiz or schedule a consultation with our medical team.