How does Wegovy work for weight loss?
Wegovy is used for weight loss
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injection used to aid weight loss in adults and teens.
It is specifically used for chronic weight management in adults with an initial body mass index (BMI) of:
- 30 kg/m2 or greater (obesity) or
- 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), type 2 diabetes or dyslipidemia.
It is also used in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with an initial BMI at the 95th percentile or greater for age and sex (obesity).
In adults, it's also approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack and stroke in people with cardiovascular (heart, blood vessel) disease and either obesity or overweight.
Wegovy is an add-on to a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Wegovy works by helping to regulate food intake and appetite
Wegovy is a human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist (GLP-1 analog) - it mimics the action of GLP-1 produced naturally by the gut, and to a lesser extent the pancreas and nervous system.
GLP-1 targets areas of the brain that help to regulate appetite, especially after eating. It also slows how quickly the stomach empties, which makes you feel fuller for longer. In addition to this, Wegovy enhances the production of insulin.
This is not all the information you need to know about Wegovy (semaglutide) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
References
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Wegovy. [Accessed June 28, 2022]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/215256s000lbl.pdf.
- Endocrine Society. Endocrine-related Organs and Hormones. January 23, 2022. [Accessed June 28, 2022]. Available from: https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/hormones-and-endocrine-function/endocrine-related-organs-and-hormones.
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA Approves New Drug Treatment for Chronic Weight Management, First Since 2014. June 4, 2021. [Accessed January 28, 2022]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-treatment-chronic-weight-management-first-2014.
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Drug information
- Wegovy Information for Consumers
- Wegovy prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Wegovy (detailed)
Related support groups
- Wegovy (36 questions, 92 members)
- Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) (752 questions, 1,483 members)
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