The origin of wegovy – what it is

Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide 2.4 mg, a prescription injectable medication used for chronic weight management in adults who have obesity or are overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications work by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite, food intake, and body weight. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, semaglutide can help reduce food intake and increase feelings of fullness, leading to weight loss.

Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy, when used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, can lead to significant weight loss in individuals with obesity or overweight. It is typically administered once a week via subcutaneous injection.

Before starting Wegovy or any weight loss medication, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine if it’s appropriate for you based on your individual health status and goals. They can provide guidance on its use, potential side effects, and monitoring while on the medication.

How does wegovy function?

Wegovy impacts specific regions of the brain responsible for appetite regulation, enhancing sensations of satiety, diminishing hunger pangs, and decreasing cravings for high-fat foods.

Additionally, it aids in blood sugar management by stimulating insulin release during periods of elevated blood sugar levels. Semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, is an alternative name utilized in the treatment of type 2 diabetes due to its ability to lower blood sugar levels effectively.

Does wegovy facilitate weight loss?

Wegovy stands out as the latest glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) sanctioned for clinical application. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) serves as an incretin, a metabolic hormone released by the L-cells located in the small intestine and colon, along with specialized cells in the brainstem, within minutes after eating.

The body quickly breaks down natural GLP-1, but semaglutide, a GLP-1 analog, boasts an extended duration of action.

Operating through its receptors, GLP-1 influences various bodily tissues, including the brain, cardiovascular system, kidneys, lungs, and the gastrointestinal tract. It curbs glucose production, facilitates glucose uptake by muscle and adipose tissue, adjusts energy intake based on blood glucose levels, all without inducing hypoglycemia. Additionally, it induces satiety during meals, prolongs gastric fullness, and diminishes appetite.

In a study involving overweight or obese adults encouraged to adopt suitable dietary habits and engage in physical activity, two years of Wegovy therapy resulted in an average weight loss surpassing 15%, unlike the less than 3% observed with a placebo, outperforming previous short-term outcomes.

More than 75% of Wegovy recipients achieved a weight loss of 5% or more over the two-year period, solidifying its clinical effectiveness. This figure, significantly higher than that of the placebo group, underscores the importance of addressing obesity as a chronic condition.

Worldwide wegovy demand

The surge in demand for a novel category of weight-loss medications has prompted a growing number of individuals to seek prescriptions from their healthcare providers.

According to a survey conducted by Sermo, an online community platform for physicians, involving 346 healthcare professionals in autumn of 2023, a significant 89% reported an uptick in patient requests for weight-loss drugs. Furthermore, a staggering 92% of primary care physicians acknowledged actively prescribing these medications. Statistical analysis revealed a remarkable escalation in Wegovy prescriptions in the United States, skyrocketing from 83,200 in January 2023 to 598,100 in May 2023, before tapering off to 162,200 in June 2023 due to supply constraints imposed by the drug manufacturer.

The quarterly sales figures for Wegovy, a weight loss and anti-obesity drug, witnessed a phenomenal surge of over eightfold within the span of just one year. This medication is developed by Novo Nordisk, a Danish biopharmaceutical company renowned for its expertise in diabetes treatments.

How to get wegovy for weight loss

Approved uses of wegovy

Wegovy is usually prescribed by healthcare professionals such as physicians, primary care providers, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. However, it’s essential to recognize that prescribing privileges are subject to regional regulations and healthcare protocols. Consequently, the availability of Wegovy prescriptions may vary depending on your location and the specific regulations governing healthcare providers’ prescribing authority.

If you’re considering Wegovy as a weight loss or chronic weight management solution, it’s advisable to engage in a discussion with your primary healthcare provider to explore its suitability for your individual needs and circumstances.

How much does wegovy cost?

The weekly cost of Wegovy is approximately $270 without insurance coverage. However, it may be accessible for as low as $0 per dose if your insurance plan includes it.

Additionally, the drug manufacturer provides savings cards to eligible patients, potentially reducing the weekly expense by $40 to $230 per dose.

Insurance coverage for Wegovy varies based on individual plans, medical history, and underlying health conditions.

Where to get wegovy

You have the option to consult either your primary healthcare provider or a specialist in obesity medicine. Alternatively, you can connect with a certified healthcare professional via a web-based weight management program such as To Body upon obtaining a prescription for Wegovy, you also have the convenience of obtaining it from your nearby pharmacy or through online channels.

Ozempic can as well be obtained by ordering at our pharmacy or at our local units in your region.

Is there a shortage of wegovy in the US?

Wegovy, also has limited availability in several dosages due to “demand increase,” according to the FDA.

Wegovy, like Zepbound, is FDA-approved for weight loss. Its main ingredient is semaglutide, which is also found in Ozempic, a medication that is approved by the FDA to treat Type 2 diabetes but is also prescribed “off label” for weight loss. There has been a shortage of Wegovy since the start 2023, but it has been