Is Wegovy Approved for Adults?
Yes, Wegovy (semaglutide) is FDA-approved for adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related conditions like hypertension or type 2 diabetes. The starting dose is 0.25 mg weekly, titrated up to 2.4 mg for chronic weight management alongside diet and exercise.[1]
Has Wegovy Been Approved for Kids?
Wegovy gained FDA approval in late 2022 for adolescents aged 12 and older with obesity and a BMI at or above the 95th percentile, or overweight with weight-related issues. It's the first drug approved for this age group. Adult dosing applies, starting low to reduce nausea.[1][2]
What About Younger Children?
No approval exists for kids under 12. Clinical trials in this group are limited, and safety data is insufficient. Pediatric use remains off-label and not recommended.[1]
Who Shouldn't Use Wegovy?
Contraindicated in people with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, or known semaglutide allergy. Avoid in pregnancy due to potential fetal harm.[1]
How Does Wegovy Differ from Ozempic?
Both are semaglutide injections from Novo Nordisk, but Wegovy targets weight loss at higher doses (up to 2.4 mg) while Ozempic (up to 2 mg) is for type 2 diabetes. Overlap exists off-label.[1]
[1]: FDA Label for Wegovy
[2]: FDA Approval Announcement for Adolescents