Wegovy (generic name: semaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Wegovy is prescribed together with a moderate program of dieting and exercise for people who have been classified as overweight or obese. The primary effect of semaglutide in this treatment is as an appetite suppressant. GLP-1 is a hormone produced in the gut after a meal. It prompts the release of insulin as well as slowing down the passage of the food through the stomach. This induces a feeling of satiety, which has the effect of postponing the desire for another meal. GLP-1 also targets receptors in the brain that control appetite, resulting in less craving for food. Eating less food can reduce body weight.

Dosage

The dosage regime is set by the prescribing doctor. Wegovy is self-administered by a weekly injection. The usual process for a new regime is to administer steadily increasing strengths until the full dosage is reached. For example begining with 0.25 mg per week in the first 4 weeks, then increasing to 0.5 mg in weeks 5 through 8,  1 mg in the weeks 9 through 12, and 1.7 mg from week 13. Where the full dosage is 2.4 mg, this will start from week 17. Once the full dose has been reached, the same dosage continues for as long as the prescribing healthcare professional allows. It may be possible to get the prescribing doctor to substitute Ozempic for Wegovy in the initial phases. Ozempic is identical to Wegovy, but has a maximum strength of 1 mg. This makes it a cheaper alternative to Wegovy for the first 3 months. It is important to read the Patient Information leaflet carefully before starting using this medicine. It contains specific guidelines on how Wegovy should be administered.