Wegovy: A Breakthrough Treatment for Weight Loss

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy (semaglutide) is an FDA-approved injectable medication designed to help with long-term weight management in individuals who are obese or overweight. It is part of the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist class of drugs, which work by mimicking a hormone in the body that helps regulate appetite and glucose metabolism. Wegovy is specifically approved for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or for those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

Wegovy has emerged as a groundbreaking option in the fight against obesity because of its ability to support significant weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It works by targeting the appetite control centers in the brain, helping people feel fuller sooner and reducing food intake.

At Park Avenue Endocrinology, we offer Wegovy as part of a comprehensive weight management program tailored to meet each patient’s individual health needs.

How Does Wegovy Work?

Wegovy works by mimicking the effects of the natural hormone GLP-1, which is released in response to eating. GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar levels, slows gastric emptying (the process by which food leaves the stomach), and reduces appetite by acting on specific areas of the brain that control hunger. By extending the action of GLP-1 in the body, Wegovy makes it easier for individuals to manage their food intake and adhere to healthier eating habits.

When used alongside lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, Wegovy has been shown to result in significant weight loss. Many individuals who take Wegovy report losing a substantial percentage of their body weight, making it an effective tool for managing obesity and improving overall health.

Wegovy Dosage: How It’s Administered

The Wegovy dosage is carefully designed to gradually introduce the medication into the body, minimizing potential side effects and allowing patients to adjust. Wegovy is administered as a once-weekly injection, and the dosage is gradually increased over a period of several weeks to achieve the optimal therapeutic dose. This stepwise increase helps the body acclimate to the medication and reduces the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects.

Here’s a typical Wegovy dosage schedule:

Starting Dose: 0.25 mg once a week for the first four weeks.
Second Dose: 0.5 mg once a week for the next four weeks.
Third Dose: 1 mg once a week for the next four weeks.
Fourth Dose: 1.7 mg once a week for the next four weeks.
Maintenance Dose: 2.4 mg once a week, which is the long-term maintenance dose for ongoing weight management.

Patients should administer the injection on the same day each week, at any time of day, with or without food. Wegovy is injected subcutaneously (under the skin), typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Our healthcare providers at Park Avenue Endocrinology will guide you on how to properly administer Wegovy and help you follow the appropriate dosage schedule for optimal results.

It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage schedule closely to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and reduce the risk of side effects.

Wegovy Side Effects: What to Expect

Like any medication, Wegovy can cause side effects. Most people experience mild to moderate side effects, particularly when starting the medication or increasing the dosage. The most common Wegovy side effects are related to the gastrointestinal system, as the medication affects how food moves through the digestive tract. Here are some potential side effects to be aware of:

Common Side Effects

Nausea: This is the most frequently reported side effect, especially during the initial weeks of treatment. As the body adjusts to Wegovy, nausea often subsides.
Vomiting: Some individuals may experience vomiting, particularly if they eat large meals or consume fatty foods.
Diarrhea or Constipation: Changes in bowel habits are common with Wegovy, including diarrhea or constipation.
Stomach Pain: Some patients report abdominal discomfort or bloating, which usually improves over time.
Heartburn or Indigestion: Slower gastric emptying can lead to a sensation of heartburn or indigestion, particularly after meals.

Serious Side Effects

While rare, Wegovy can cause more serious side effects in some individuals. If you experience any of the following, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately:

Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can occur, causing severe stomach pain that radiates to the back, along with nausea or vomiting.
Gallbladder Problems: Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones or other gallbladder issues. Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Kidney Problems: Dehydration from nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can affect kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney issues.
Allergic Reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, including rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.

Reducing Side Effects

To minimize side effects, it’s recommended to start with the lowest dose and gradually increase it as your body adjusts. Eating smaller meals and avoiding fatty or rich foods can help reduce nausea and digestive discomfort. Staying hydrated is also important, especially if you experience diarrhea or vomiting.

At Park Avenue Endocrinology, we closely monitor our patients for side effects and provide guidance on how to manage any discomfort. Most side effects can be managed effectively with the right support, and many subside as your body gets used to the medication.

What People Say About Us!

"As I have said many times before, Dr. Eytan is brilliant. She’s smart, knowledgeable. She has helped me lose weight and more importantly, my health markers are all now normal or vastly improved. She warm & caring and discusses all options with you for treatment. I highly recommend her."

- LISA C.

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Contact Us to Learn More About Wegovy

If you are struggling with obesity or weight-related health conditions, Wegovy may be an effective option to help you achieve lasting weight loss. Park Avenue Endocrinology offers personalized weight management plans that incorporate the latest treatments like Wegovy to help you reach your health goals.