Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, is a medication used to treat obesity in adults. It works by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is naturally produced by the intestines in response to food intake.

When taken orally, Wegovy is absorbed into the bloodstream where it targets the pancreas and brain. In the pancreas, Wegovy decreases the production of two hormones, glucagon and insulin, which raise blood glucose levels, thereby reducing glucose absorption from the intestine and promoting glucose excretion from the body [1].

In the brain, Wegovy acts on receptors in the hypothalamus, a region that regulates appetite and satiety. By activating these receptors, Wegovy suppresses appetite and improves feelings of fullness, leading to a reduction in caloric intake [2].

Wegovy also slows gastric emptying, which allows for more time for nutrient absorption and helps regulate blood glucose levels. This effect can lead to weight loss and improvements in glycemic control, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes [3].

As a result of these mechanisms, Wegovy has been shown to be effective in reducing body weight, improving metabolic parameters, and enhancing quality of life for individuals with obesity [4].

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/semaglutide
[2] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/oby.23156
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7324344/
[4] https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/more-people-qualify-we-lost-its-weight-management-indication