Navigating Weight Loss with Wegovy: Practical Solutions for Lasting Results
Losing weight can be tricky and challenging. It takes dedication and patience, and progress can sometimes seem slow, which can be frustrating. It can be overwhelming for people dealing with obesity. But the good news is that there are medications to help manage weight, one of which is called Wegovy.
In this blog, we discuss the good, and the not so good, of using Wegovy for long-term weight loss. But remember that everyone's body is different so medications may work differently for different people. Read on to learn all about Wegoyi! We'll talk about how it works and whether it might be a good fit for you, and we'll also talk about essential side effects and warnings you should be aware of. Let's get into that!
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a drug that helps people lose weight. It contains a special ingredient called semaglutide, which belongs to a class of medicines called GLP-1 receptor agonists. The drug was developed by Novo Nordisk and is used to treat obesity in adults with other health problems, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Originally Semaglutide was developed to help people with type 2 diabetes. It got the thumbs up from the FDA as a treatment for diabetes in 2017. But one side effect is that it reduces appetite, which made Novo Nordisk interested in using it for weight loss.
You can now find Semaglutide in two forms: Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for primary weight loss. Both come in a smooth injector pen with perfect pitch. Therefore, it is available in two versions to suit different needs.
Img Source: Gethealthybenefits
Ozempic vs. Wegovy
Wegovy has high levels of the same ingredient in another brand called Ozempic (Which we have already covered in another post). Wegovy and Ozempic both contain the same active component called semaglutide. Ozempic helps to regulate type 2 diabetes and blood sugar levels, and they usually take up to 2 milligrams of semaglutide.
Wegovy Dosage
For weight loss with Wegovy injection, the full dose is 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide. Wegovy has five different dose strengths, ranging from 0.25 to 2.4 milligrams. When your doctor is prescribed Wegovy, they start with the lowest dose and then increase it gradually every four weeks until they reach the full dose of 2.4 milligrams. It's like a step-by-step approach to finding the right fit for each person.
How does Wegovy work?
Now let's see how Wegovy, the weight loss drug, actually works! Wegovy is designed to help you eat less by suppressing your appetite. When you eat less, your body starts using its stored fat for energy, which leads to weight loss. It's like creating a calorie deficit, and that's how you shed those extra pounds.
Currently, there are several medical and natural supplements to prevent hunger. Some plant-based compounds, such as glucomannan, swell your stomach and give you a feeling of fullness, so you eat less.
But Wegovy works in different ways. In injection, it contains a substance called semaglutide, which works like a hormone called GLP-1. This natural GLP-1 is produced in your intestines when you eat.
Once Wegovy is in your bloodstream, it does some cool stuff for your body.
GLP-1 performs two important functions in our bodies.
First, it stimulates insulin secretion, which is why semaglutide treats type 2 diabetes.
Second, when GLP-1 reaches the brain, it makes you feel full, reducing your desire to eat. It is how Wegovy works to help you lose weight.
We can say, Wegovy helps you by controlling your appetite and increasing your body's ability to burn calories. It's a helpful tool to help you in your weight loss journey.
Who can use Wegovy?
Wegovy is for people who are overweight or obese. To be prescribed Wegovy weight loss, the FDA says you must have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It is designed for those who want to maintain their weight long-term and prevent weight-related health issues.
If your BMI is between 27 and 29, you might still get Wegovy, but only if you have at least one weight-related health problem, like sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, or type-2 diabetes.
If you or your family have a history of a particular type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma or the condition Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2, then Wegovy is not suitable for you.
And if you are allergic to semaglutide or any ingredients, Wegovy is unsafe for you.
Wegovy is not recommended if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant within the next two months.
Wegovy can be absorbed into milk, so if you are breastfeeding and considering taking Wegovy, talk to your doctor first for proper advice. It is important to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.
IMG Source: Gethealthybenefits
Remember that using Wegovy alone is not enough. You should also follow a healthy Wegovy diet plan at all times. Before starting any weight loss program or taking any medication, it is best to talk to your healthcare provider first. They will guide you on what is best for you and your health.
What is the best place to inject Wegovy?
Wegovy is applied once a week, and you can do it under the skin of the abdomen, upper thighs, or upper arms. The good news is that there is no "best" place to give Wegovy shot. You can choose a place that is comfortable and convenient for you.
Is Wegovy Effective?
Great question! Wegovy is effective in weight loss. In the studies, many people taking Wegovy lost at least 5 percent of their body weight in 68 weeks. And think about it, what? Almost half of the people who used Wegovy lost at least 15 percent of their body weight.
You can review the prescribing information for detailed information on how Wegovy performed in these studies. It will give you all the details. But overall, it shows promising results for those looking to drop some pounds.
Wegovy Side Effects
When people take Wegovy, there are some common side effects, especially for the stomach and digestion. These side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, upset stomach, stomach flu, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, gas, heartache, etc. But don't worry too much. These common side effects are rarely long-lasting and not severe at all.
Doctors usually suggest starting with a small dose and gradually increasing every four weeks. It can help reduce the chances of nausea and vomiting.
Rare Serious Side Effects
While using Wegovy, there are rare cases where more severe side effects can occur.
These include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, risk of hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes, kidney problems, severe ulcers, increased heart rate, and depression or mania or suicidal tendencies. If you experience these side effects while taking Wegovy, you must talk to your doctor immediately. They can guide you and determine the best course of action for your health.
What to do before taking Wegovy weight loss?
Before you start using Wegovy, there are some essential things you need to know to make sure it is safe for you. The FDA issued a severe warning to Wegovy: Boxed Warning. This warning is to alert you and your doctor to potential harmful risks. Based on animal studies, Wegovy may increase the risk of thyroid cancer. But it's important to remember that what happens to animals doesn't always happen to humans. We still don't know if Wegovy increases the risk of human thyroid cancer.
Because of this potential risk, your doctor will not prescribe Wegovy if you or your family have a particular type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma and also if you have the genetic condition Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2, which you have can increase your risk of thyroid cancer, then Wegovy is not recommended. It is important to tell your doctor immediately if you notice hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or lumps in your throat while using Wegovy. These can be signs of thyroid cancer, and your doctor will monitor you during your treatment.
Image Source: Gethealthybenefits
Wegovy Weight Loss Before and After
Here are some people from Tiktok who used Wegovy and have amazing Wegovy weight loss before and after pictures
Kayla Lafferty (kaylalafferty20)
That is a remarkable improvement! This woman’s weight loss journey with Wegovy is truly inspiring. She started at around 278 pounds, and with the help of another weight loss pill, she managed to lose a lot.
She lost 78.1 pounds, about 28% of her starting body weight, and now weighs about 199.9 pounds. That is a fantastic accomplishment!
Samantha RN MSN (@nursesamcgt)
Samantha's story is fantastic! As a registered nurse, she took charge of her health by starting a weight management program, especially due to PCOS weight gain and planning for future pregnancies, and her dedication paid off as she began her weight loss journey last October. Then, in December of the same year, she added Wegovy to her weight Loss. Guess what? Samantha has already lost a total of 50 pounds! £30 for the program started in October, and an additional £20 with Wegovy. That is a remarkable feat!
It’s amazing how Samantha and Kayla’s determination and support from Wegovy have helped her on her weight loss journey. It’s important to remember that everyone’s path is different, but Samantha’s success story is truly inspirational! When considering any weight loss program or regimen, don’t forget to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best program for your health goals.
What is better Saxenda vs Wegovy?
Saxenda contains liraglutide, which like semaglutide, is the active ingredient in Wegovy. It is also a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Both drugs work by suppressing appetite and helping you lose weight. However, Wegovy is a more potent version of the GLP-1 receptor agonist and contains a higher dose of semaglutide than Saxenda liraglutide. That means Wegovy may be more effective in weight loss for some individuals.
When it comes to choosing between Saxenda and Wegovy, it is based on various factors such as your medical history, reactions to medications, and any specific health conditions.
What to do next?
Your first step should be to talk to your doctor about using Wegovy for weight loss. He is the best person to help determine whether Wegovy is the best option for you or not. Here are some questions you may want to ask your doctor.
Is it OK to use Wegovy if my BMI is under 27?
Is Wegovy suitable for me if I have type 2 diabetes? Or should we consider other forms of semaglutide, such as Ozempic, when treating diabetes?
Can I take Wegovy with my digestion disorder?
These questions will help you better understand Wegovy and whether it suits your situation. Your doctor can advise you and ensure you make the best decision for your health and weight loss journey.
Disclaimer:
Here at Get Healthy Benefits, we have tried to provide you with the latest and most accurate information. But please remember that it is not intended to replace the advice and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. Talking to your doctor or other healthcare specialist before you start taking any medications is super important. They will guide you properly and ensure you make the safest choice for your health. So, always seek their expert advice before making any medication or treatment decision. Your health is important; they are the best people to help you care for it!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Wegovy cost?
Without insurance, the list price of the Wegovy is considerably higher, at $1,349.02 per package. That’s about $269.80 per week or $16,188.24 per year! That’s a lot of money, right? But here's the good news: Even if you don't have health insurance, Wegovy has ways to save money and reduce costs. You can look for options like manufacturer rebates, patient assistance programs, or Wegovy coupons to help maximize your purchases.
How long does it take for Wegovy to work?
When you start using Wegovy for weight loss, you may lose some weight in the Wegovy first month results of treatment. That’s a good sign! However, it’s worth noting that the full impact of Wegovy may take some time to manifest. It may take months or more of patience to see the full effect.
How long do you take Wegovy for weight loss?
The improvement in weight loss of the adults who used Wegovy in the study was measured over 12 - 68 weeks. So, it’s a gradual process, and everyone’s journey may differ. Remember that consistency and commitment are key to long-term weight loss with Wegovy. So, keep at it, and you can see the positive changes you hope for!
Can you inject Wegovy cold?
It is best to store Wegovy in its original box by placing it in the refrigerator to protect it from light. But if you need to use it, you can take it out of the fridge and keep it at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before use.
I am not losing weight on Wegovy.
Everyone’s body is different and responds differently to different things. Weight loss is affected by a complex combination of factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetics, underlying health conditions, and psychological aspects. While Wegovy can be a helpful weight loss tool, it is essential to note that results can vary from person to person. Some individuals can lose a lot of weight with Wegovy, while others may not see the same results. The key to successful weight management is to understand that no one-size-fits-all approach exists. Working with a healthcare professional to develop an individualized plan that considers individual factors and addresses specific needs and goals is essential.
How to keep weight off after Wegovy?
After achieving Wegovy weight loss, adding exercise to your routine can be beneficial for maintaining that weight loss. Research shows that at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous weekly exercise can help lose weight. If you weren’t very active before, don’t worry! You can start small and gradually increase your activity level.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Wegovy cost?
Without insurance, the list price of the Wegovy is considerably higher, at $1,349.02 per package. That’s about $269.80 per week or $16,188.24 per year! That’s a lot of money, right? But here's the good news: Even if you don't have health insurance, Wegovy has ways to save money and reduce costs. You can look for options like manufacturer rebates, patient assistance programs, or Wegovy coupons to help maximize your purchases.
How long does it take for Wegovy to work?
When you start using Wegovy for weight loss, you may lose some weight in the Wegovy first month results of treatment. That’s a good sign! However, it’s worth noting that the full impact of Wegovy may take some time to manifest. It may take months or more of patience to see the full effect.
How long do you take Wegovy for weight loss?
The improvement in weight loss of the adults who used Wegovy in the study was measured over 12 - 68 weeks. So, it’s a gradual process, and everyone’s journey may differ. Remember that consistency and commitment are key to long-term weight loss with Wegovy. So, keep at it, and you can see the positive changes you hope for!
Can you inject Wegovy cold?
It is best to store Wegovy in its original box by placing it in the refrigerator to protect it from light. But if you need to use it, you can take it out of the fridge and keep it at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before use.
I am not losing weight on Wegovy.
Everyone’s body is different and responds differently to different things. Weight loss is affected by a complex combination of factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetics, underlying health conditions, and psychological aspects. While Wegovy can be a helpful weight loss tool, it is essential to note that results can vary from person to person. Some individuals can lose a lot of weight with Wegovy, while others may not see the same results. The key to successful weight management is to understand that no one-size-fits-all approach exists. Working with a healthcare professional to develop an individualized plan that considers individual factors and addresses specific needs and goals is essential.
How to keep weight off after Wegovy?
After achieving Wegovy weight loss, adding exercise to your routine can be beneficial for maintaining that weight loss. Research shows that at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous weekly exercise can help lose weight. If you weren’t very active before, don’t worry! You can start small and gradually increase your activity level.
Share this post
Subscribe to new posts