Description
What Are Wegovy Injections?
Wegovy is a once-weekly prescription injection that helps adults manage their weight. Each dose contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that works with your body’s natural hormones to regulate appetite. Specifically, it’s suitable for adults living with obesity or those classed as overweight with weight-related health concerns like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
What Is Wegovy Used For?
Wegovy is prescribed for weight management in adults who:
— Have a BMI of 30 or above (obese)
— Have a BMI of 27 or more (overweight) with conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
— Need additional support alongside a calorie-controlled diet and regular physical activity
How Do Wegovy Injections Work?
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a medicine that mimics the GLP-1 hormone found naturally in the body. It helps by:
— Targeting the part of the brain that controls appetite
— Reducing hunger and the number of calories you eat
— Slowing digestion to help you feel fuller for longer
As a result, this combined effect helps lower daily food intake and support long-term weight loss. Over time, it can also contribute to better blood sugar balance and reduced cravings.
How Should Wegovy Be Taken?
Wegovy comes as a pre-filled injection pen for once-weekly use. To use it correctly, follow these steps:
— Inject once a week on the same day each time
— Use in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm
— Always rotate injection sites to reduce the chance of skin irritation
— Can be taken with or without food
— Be sure to follow your doctor’s dose schedule to gradually increase the amount over time
Are There Any Side Effects?
As with any medication, Wegovy can cause side effects—though not everyone will experience them. Generally, these effects are mild and short-lived, especially during the early stages of treatment.
Common side effects:
— Nausea
— Diarrhoea
— Vomiting
— Constipation
Uncommon or rare side effects:
— Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
— Gallbladder problems, such as gallstones
— Severe allergic reactions including swelling or difficulty breathing
If symptoms persist or worsen, speak to your GP.
Who Should Avoid Wegovy?
Wegovy isn’t suitable for everyone. Avoid this treatment if any of the following apply:
— A personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC)
— A diagnosis of MEN 2 (multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2)
— Known allergy to semaglutide or any listed ingredient
— Currently pregnant or breastfeeding
— Under the age of 18
As always, consult a healthcare professional before starting a new prescription, especially if you have any long-term medical conditions.
How Should It Be Stored?
To keep your Wegovy pens safe and effective:
— Store in the fridge between 2°C and 8°C
— Can be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 28 days
— Never freeze and avoid direct sunlight
— Keep out of sight and reach of children
Finally, check the expiry date before use, and return unused pens to your pharmacy for proper disposal.
