Wegovy Weight Loss: How It Works, Eligibility, Results & Side Effects

Wegovy has become one of the most discussed drugs in the UK, not because of its marketing strategy but due to the convincing Wegovy weight loss it provides. For the right individual, when applied correctly and combined with healthy lifestyle choices, it provides Wegovy weight loss that is almost impossible to achieve through any other method.

What people do not ask about is why it works for some and does not for others. The answer lies within the treatment process itself.

How Does Wegovy Work?

Wegovy consists primarily of Semaglutide, a GLP-1 analogue, a hormone released in response to eating by the gut. The drug makes one feel full and also slows digestion, but at the same time, it helps regulate blood sugar levels. It results in reduced appetite and intake of fewer calories since one is not hungry anymore, making it a GLP-1 weight loss medication.

When Can I Be Prescribed Wegovy in the UK?

A BMI over 30 will be enough for most people. However, a BMI over 27 with the presence of a condition related to being overweight or obese will also work. There is another UK licence for Wegovy, which is to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular events in patients with already diagnosed heart disease and a BMI of 27 or higher, according to Wegovy eligibility. Spending more time with your GP can be particularly useful when discussing medical history and treatment suitability.

What Weight Loss Can You Expect?

Wegovy weight loss depends on the individual. Clinical studies show that there can be weight loss of 15% to 18.7% of body weight within 68 to 72 weeks depending on the dosage. That is just an average for the whole population. Results will depend on one’s diet and physical activity, adherence to the programme and general health condition. A healthcare professional may also recommend private blood tests where appropriate to assess relevant aspects of a patient’s health.

What Is the Dosage Schedule?

The treatment begins with a weekly dosage of 0.25 mg, increasing gradually every four weeks up to the standard dosage of 2.4 mg. For patients who require more weight loss, there is a higher dosage of 7.2 mg. Increasing the Wegovy dosage does not affect the efficacy of the lower dosages, but it helps reduce possible side effects.

Common Side Effects Include?

The most common side effect that occurs among all is nausea due to the increased dosage of the drug. There are other side effects like vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, headache and fatigue, which are recognised as Wegovy side effects. These side effects will eventually stop once the body gets used to the medicine.

Patients with any personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 cannot use Wegovy. If symptoms such as a lump in the neck area, difficulty swallowing, or sudden voice changes occur, one should see a doctor.

Is Wegovy and Ozempic the Same Drug?

Semaglutide is found in both drugs. However, Ozempic is approved in the UK as a drug to treat type 2 diabetes. Meanwhile, Wegovy is used in the UK for weight management, including treatment available through Wegovy UK. Using Ozempic for weight loss can lead to a shortage of the drug needed by people with diabetes, while a private weight loss clinic St Annes or a private weight loss clinic in Blackpool may be relevant for those considering treatment.