Wegovy: Effect, Usage and FAQs

Who developed Wegovy?

Manufacturer

Wegovy is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a global pharmaceutical company based in Denmark. Novo Nordisk also developed Ozempic, which contains the same active ingredient as Wegovy: semaglutide. While Ozempic is approved for treating type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is specifically designed for weight management.

Availability in Germany

Wegovy has been available in the USA since 2021 and in the European Union since 2022. It is available by prescription in several countries, including Germany, as a prefilled pen for subcutaneous injection. Following a temporary shortage of semaglutide-based medications, particularly Ozempic, Wegovy is now more readily available.

For which application is Wegovy approved?

Wegovy is approved for weight management, in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, for:

• Adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²)

• Adults who are overweight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m² and < 30 kg/m²) with at least one weight-related comorbidity

• Adolescents aged 12 years and older with obesity (based on sex- and age-specific growth charts) and a body weight over 60 kg

Who is Wegovy suitable for?

Wegovy is intended for the above mentioned groups 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?

Wegovy contains semaglutide, which activates GLP-1 receptors. It improves glucose metabolism,enhances insulin secretion, reduces glucagon release, and slows gastric emptying and acts on the satiety centre in the brain. As a result, satiety is prolonged, calorie intake decreases, and weight loss is supported. 

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 typically starts with 0.25 mg once a week to improve tolerability, with gradual increases over time. (if needed)

The injection is administered subcutaneously into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, ideally on the same day each week, regardless of meals. To minimize skin irritation, rotate injection sites regularly.

Where can I buy Wegovy?

Wegovy is available by prescription from pharmacies. Before starting treatment, consult a doctor to determine suitability and the correct dosage. For best results, combine Wegovy with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Wegovy Pricing

The cost of Wegovy depends on dosage and packaging and is regulated by law. At The Body Clinic, a starter program with Wegovy begins at €395, which includes free medication delivery (optional), personal coaching, and access to online fitness resources for optimal effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Wegovy are

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

These side effects usually occur at the start of treatment and diminish over time. Mostly they can be relieved by following certain diet recommendations. 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 treating obesity and overweight with comorbidities, based on recommendations from the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Clinical trials confirm its safety and efficacy when combined with a healthy diet and 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. In the case of insulin use or sulfonylurea’s; they should be stopped before starting Wegovy. And mention increased risk for diabetic retinopathia, due to improved glycemic control, regular eye checks are advised for diabetic patients.
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.

• Semaglutide delays gastric emptying, which may reduce the extent and rate of absorption of (other) orally administered medications. When initiating treatment with semaglutide in patients using vitamin K antagonists, monitor the INR more frequently. Discuss your medications with your doctor.
• Cases of pulmonary aspiration have been reported during treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists in the context of general anesthesia or deep sedation. Before proceeding with procedures involving general anesthesia or deep sedation, consider the increased risk of residual gastric contents due to delayed gastric emptying.

It is not advised for patients with severe heart failure, kidney- and/or liver failure.

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.

Do health insurance companies reimburse Wegovy?

In Germany, statutory health insurance generally does not cover Wegovy, as it is currently classified as a lifestyle medication. Reimbursement may depend on individual policies and medical necessity. Patients should consult their insurance provider for details. Note that reimbursement is often subject to specific medical criteria.

How can I stop using Wegovy?

Discontinuation should be done under medical supervision to avoid side effects. Wegovy may be discontinued entirely or reduced to a maintenance dose, with a gradual tapering recommended.

Package Leaflet

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