Wegovy is a prescription medication used to help adults with obesity or overweight lose weight and maintain weight loss. It is a brand name for semaglutide, which is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist [1]. GLP-1 is a hormone that is naturally produced in the gut and helps regulate appetite and food intake. Semaglutide works by mimicking the action of GLP-1, which leads to decreased appetite and increased feelings of fullness [2].

Wegovy is administered once a week by subcutaneous injection, and it is recommended to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity [2]. Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy is effective in helping patients achieve and maintain weight loss, with some patients losing up to 15% of their initial body weight [3].

Wegovy is similar to another medication called Ozempic, which is also a GLP-1 receptor agonist. However, Wegovy is specifically approved for weight loss, while Ozempic is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes [3].

As with any medication, there are potential side effects of Wegovy, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. It may also increase the risk of certain thyroid tumors [2]. It is important for patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits of Wegovy with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Sources:
[1] Drug Patent Watch. (n.d.). Wegovy. Retrieved September 28, 2021, from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/WEGOVY
[2] Wegovy. (n.d.). How Wegovy Works. Retrieved September 28, 2021, from https://www.wegovy.com/about-wegovy/how-does-wegovy-work.html
[3] UCHealth Today. (2021, June 10). Wegovy vs. Ozempic: The truth about new weight-loss drugs. Retrieved September 28, 2021, from https://www.uchealth.org/today/wegovy-vs-ozempic-the-truth-about-new-weight-loss-drugs/