Wegovy syringe: Effect, application and FAQs

Who developed Wegovy?

Manufacturer

Wegovy is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a global pharmaceutical company based in Denmark. Novo Nordisk has also developed the drug Ozempic, which contains the same active ingredient as Wegovy: Semaglutide. While Ozempic is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is used specifically for weight loss.

Availability in Germany

Wegovy has been available in the USA since 2021 and in the European Union since 2022. It is available on prescription in several countries, including Germany. It is offered as a prefilled pen for subcutaneous injections. After a temporary shortage of semaglutide-based drugs, particularly Ozempic, Wegovy is now more readily available again.

For which application is Wegovy approved?

Wegovy is approved for the treatment of adults with:

• Overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with at least one weight-related concomitant disease such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
• Obesity (BMI ≥ 30).

Who is Wegovy suitable for?

Wegovy is intended for adults with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related comorbidity who have not achieved sufficient weight loss with diet and exercise alone. It should be used as part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise.

How does the Wegovy injection work?

The Wegovy injection contains semaglutide, which activates the GLP-1 receptors. This leads to increased insulin secretion, reduced glucagon release and delayed gastric emptying. As a result, the feeling of satiety lasts longer, calorie intake is reduced and weight loss is promoted. It also influences the hunger and satiety center in the brain.

Dosage and application

Wegovy is available in doses of 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg and 2.4 mg. Treatment is gradual to improve tolerability and usually starts with 0.25 mg once a week. It is administered using an injection pen or pre-filled pen. After four weeks, the dose can be increased for the first time and then gradually increased each month up to a maximum dose of 2.4 mg.
The injection is given subcutaneously (under the skin) in the abdomen, thigh or upper arm. It should be administered weekly on the same day, regardless of meals. To avoid skin irritation, the injection sites should be changed regularly.

Where can I buy Wegovy?

Wegovy is only available on prescription from pharmacies. Before starting treatment, a doctor’s consultation should take place to determine suitability and the correct dosage. Wegovy works best in combination with a healthy diet and sufficient exercise.

Prices for Wegovy

The cost of Wegovy depends on the dosage and pack size and is subject to legal price regulations. At The Body Clinic, you can purchase a starter program with Wegovy from €395. This includes – if desired – free delivery of the medication, personal coaching and access to online fitness offers to support the best possible effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Wegovy are

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite

These side effects usually occur at the start of treatment and subside over time. Rare but serious side effects may include pancreatitis or allergic reactions. A doctor should be consulted immediately in the event of severe abdominal pain or allergic symptoms.

Safety and approval of Wegovy

Wegovy was approved by the European Commission for the treatment of obesity and overweight with concomitant diseases on the recommendation of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This approval confirms that the drug is safe for adults who are overweight or obese. Its effectiveness has been proven in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Interactions and contraindications

Before using Wegovy, patients should inform their doctor about existing health problems and other medications they are currently taking.
Wegovy can influence the effect of other medications, especially blood sugar-lowering drugs. In this case, for example, regular blood glucose monitoring is necessary and the dosage of other medications may need to be adjusted.
Patients with a history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal diseases should also consult their doctor before use. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is also not recommended.

Differences between Wegovy and other medications

Wegovy vs. Ozempic

Wegovy and Ozempic both contain semaglutide, but Wegovy is used in a higher dosage specifically for weight loss, while Ozempic was developed for controlling blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes. Both drugs are injected once a week.

Wegovy vs. Mounjaro

Mounjaro is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, while Wegovy acts exclusively on the GLP-1 receptor. Mounjaro may have a stronger effect on body weight, but is not exclusively approved for weight loss. Like Wegovy, Mounjaro is injected once a week.

Wegovy vs. Saxenda

Wegovy and Saxenda are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, but Wegovy is injected weekly and Saxenda daily. Both drugs are approved for weight loss.

Does the health insurance company reimburse Wegovy?

In Germany, statutory health insurance companies do not generally cover the costs of Wegovy, as it is currently classified as a lifestyle drug. However, reimbursement by health insurance companies depends heavily on the individual insurance policy and the medical indication. Patients should therefore contact their health insurance company directly to find out about reimbursement options. Please note that reimbursement is often only granted if certain medical conditions are met.

How can I stop using Wegovy?

Treatment should be discontinued in consultation with a doctor in order to avoid possible side effects. Wegovy can either be discontinued completely or reduced to a maintenance dose. In order to achieve this, a controlled reduction should be made.

Package insert

If you need more information, you can always consult the package leaflet to find out everything you need to know about Wegovy.