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Wegovy is a prescription medication that contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist used to support long term weight management. It is approved for adults and adolescents aged 12 and older with obesity or overweight conditions linked to health problems. Taken once weekly as a subcutaneous injection, Wegovy works alongside healthy eating and physical activity to help reduce appetite, support consistent weight loss, and improve metabolic health. This overview is based on medical guidelines and clinical trials through November 2025. Individual treatment should always be guided by a healthcare provider.
What Is Wegovy
Wegovy is produced by Novo Nordisk and was first approved by the FDA in June 2021 for chronic weight management in adults. In 2022, its approval extended to adolescents aged 12 and older with obesity. The medication is available in single use pens in doses ranging from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg.
Wegovy activates GLP-1 receptors, which are involved in appetite regulation, blood sugar control, and digestion. Although Wegovy and Ozempic share the same active ingredient, their approved uses and dosing schedules differ. Wegovy is formulated specifically for weight reduction and is intended for long term use as part of a broader lifestyle plan.
How Wegovy Works
Wegovy targets appetite and digestion through the GLP-1 pathway. After injection, semaglutide binds to receptors in the brain that help regulate hunger. At the same time, it slows stomach emptying, promoting a longer sense of fullness after meals.
Key effects include:
- Reduced appetite and cravings
- Lower calorie intake without forced restriction
- More stable blood sugar levels that help avoid energy dips
- Support for gradual, sustainable fat loss
Most people begin noticing appetite changes after a few weeks, with more significant weight changes appearing after two to three months. In clinical trials, average weight loss reached 15 to 17 percent of body weight over approximately 68 weeks.
Who Can Use Wegovy
Wegovy is approved for:
- Adults with obesity (BMI 30 or higher)
- Adults with overweight (BMI 27 or higher) with a related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Adolescents aged 12 and older with obesity at or above the 95th percentile for age and sex
- Adults with cardiovascular disease who can benefit from weight loss and reduced risk of heart related events
Wegovy is not meant for cosmetic weight loss or short term use. It should be avoided by people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Common Side Effects of Wegovy
Most side effects relate to the digestive system, especially during dose increases.
Common Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal discomfort
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
These symptoms are usually temporary. Helpful strategies include eating smaller meals, staying hydrated, choosing bland foods, and increasing doses slowly. About 16 percent of trial participants stopped treatment because of side effects, compared to 8 percent on placebo.
Serious Side Effects
Seek medical attention immediately for:
- Severe abdominal pain that may signal pancreatitis
- Gallbladder problems such as pain, fever, or jaundice
- Low blood sugar, especially when combined with other diabetes medications
- Kidney issues, including reduced urine
- Allergic reactions with swelling or breathing difficulty
- Persistent elevated heart rate
- Vision changes or worsening retinopathy
- Severe stomach problems or persistent bloating
Report serious reactions to a healthcare provider and the FDA’s MedWatch program.
Warnings
Wegovy includes a boxed warning about the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors based on animal data. Human risk remains unclear. Avoid Wegovy if you have a history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2 syndrome.
Other considerations:
- Wegovy can delay stomach emptying, which may affect anesthesia and certain medications.
- Rare cases of mood changes or suicidal thoughts have been reported.
- It should not be used during pregnancy and must be stopped at least two months before trying to conceive.
Before Taking Wegovy
Discuss with your provider if you have:
- A history of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease
- Kidney problems
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Depression or other mental health conditions
- Scheduled surgeries
- Plans for pregnancy or breastfeeding
Your healthcare provider can help determine whether Wegovy is appropriate.
How to Use Wegovy
Wegovy is injected once weekly under the skin. Steps include:
- Wash hands and select an injection site on the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
- Clean the skin with an alcohol wipe.
- Remove the pen cap and check the medication for clarity.
- Hold the pen at a 90 degree angle and press the button until it clicks.
- Hold for 5 seconds before removing.
- Dispose of the pen in a sharps container.
Rotate injection sites weekly. Store unused pens in the refrigerator and keep used pens at room temperature for up to 28 days.
Missed Dose and Overdose
- If you miss a dose and are within 5 days, take it as soon as you remember.
- If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your schedule.
- Never take double doses.
- Call poison control for severe nausea or hypoglycemia caused by accidental overdose.
Wegovy Dosage Schedule
Doses increase over 16 weeks:
- Weeks 1 to 4: 0.25 mg
- Weeks 5 to 8: 0.5 mg
- Weeks 9 to 12: 1.0 mg
- Weeks 13 to 16: 1.7 mg
- Week 17 onward: 2.4 mg maintenance
Your provider may adjust the schedule if side effects occur. The schedule is similar for adolescents.
What to Avoid While Using Wegovy
- Do not share pens.
- Limit alcohol, as it may worsen nausea or affect blood sugar.
- Avoid rich, high fat foods if they trigger symptoms.
Drug Interactions
Wegovy may slow the absorption of oral medications. Take medicines such as oral contraceptives or antibiotics at least one hour before your injection.
Common interactions include:
- Insulin or sulfonylureas
- Oral birth control
- Blood thinners
- Certain appetite suppressants
Speak with a pharmacist or doctor before starting new medications or supplements.
Storage Instructions
- Keep unused pens refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
- Do not freeze.
- Store opened pens at room temperature for up to 28 days.
- Protect from heat and direct sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wegovy
Does Wegovy cause hair loss?
There is no direct link, but rapid weight loss can cause temporary shedding. Adequate protein intake may help.
How long until Wegovy starts working?
Appetite changes often begin in the first two weeks. Significant weight loss appears by months two to three.
What is the difference between Wegovy and Ozempic?
Both contain semaglutide, but Wegovy is approved and dosed for weight loss up to 2.4 mg. Ozempic is approved primarily for type 2 diabetes.
Can I drink alcohol while using Wegovy?
Moderate use is considered safe but may worsen nausea or affect blood sugar.
Is Wegovy safe during pregnancy?
No. It should be stopped at least two months before trying to conceive.
Is compounded semaglutide the same as Wegovy?
Compounded versions are not FDA approved and may vary in quality. Use only licensed pharmacies if needed during shortages.
Conclusion
Wegovy is a proven and effective option for long term weight management when used with healthy habits and medical guidance. It reduces appetite, improves metabolic health, and supports meaningful weight loss in adults and adolescents who meet eligibility criteria. Understanding how Wegovy works, how to use it properly, and what side effects to monitor can help users achieve the best possible results safely.
