Wegovy®
Semaglutide
Drs. Nicolette Lammers
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a medicine containing the active substance semaglutide. It is used as an aid in weight loss and weight maintenance in adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30) or overweight (BMI 27–30) with weight-related health problems, such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or elevated cholesterol.
At The Body Clinic, a doctor assesses during the consultation whether treatment with medication is appropriate within a medical weight management program. More information about our medical approach can be found in our treatment program.
Instructions for using Wegovy
Wegovy comes as a pre-filled, single-use injection pen. Always read the package leaflet or ask your doctor or pharmacist for an explanation.
Important:
- One injection per week, on a fixed day.
- Dosage is gradually increased: 0.25 mg → 0.5 mg → 1.0 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg.
- Each pen contains one fixed dose and is discarded after use.
Injection Site:
- Under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
- Do not inject into a vein or muscle.
- Always have the first use demonstrated by a doctor or nurse.
Storage:
- In the refrigerator (2–8 °C), do not freeze, protect from light.
- After opening: can be stored for up to 6 weeks at room temperature (max. 30 °C).
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is the active substance in Wegovy and is produced by Novo Nordisk. It belongs to the class of incretin mimetics and mimics the action of the natural gut hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). After a meal, this hormone is normally released in the gut. It stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar rises, reduces glucagon release from the liver, slows gastric emptying, and provides a stronger feeling of satiety in the brain. Through this combined action, semaglutide helps the body regulate blood sugar levels and supports – in case of medical indication – weight loss and weight maintenance when used in combination with a healthy lifestyle and guidance from a doctor.
Wegovy and weight loss
Wegovy has been studied in randomized clinical trials for its effect on body weight in adults with obesity or overweight in combination with lifestyle advice (diet and exercise). These studies showed that semaglutide, combined with guidance and lifestyle adjustments, led to substantial and clinically relevant weight loss in many participants compared to placebo.
In short: participants followed dietary and exercise advice and received a weekly injection with semaglutide or placebo. On average, body weight decreased more in the semaglutide group. The following results were found after 68 weeks of treatment in the STEP 1 study:
Results after 68 Weeks (STEP 1 Study)
| Treatment group | Average weight loss | ≥ 5 % | ≥ 10 % | ≥ 15 % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide 2.4 mg 1× per week | − 14.9 % | 86 % | 69 % | 50 % |
| Placebo + lifestyle guidance | − 2.4 % | 31 % | 12 % | 5 % |
The effect gradually builds up during the treatment. Results may vary per person; medication does not work for everyone and may cause side effects. Always read the package leaflet or SmPC and discuss expectations and risks with your treating physician.
Buying Wegovy – only on prescription via pharmacy
Wegovy is a prescription-only medicine. It is not freely available and can only be provided on prescription from a doctor.
At The Body Clinic, a doctor assesses during the consultation whether treatment with medication is appropriate within a medical weight management program. More information about our medical approach can be found in our treatment program.
Wegovy price
The price of Wegovy is determined by the pharmacy and may vary per strength and dosage.
At The Body Clinic, a doctor assesses during the consultation whether treatment with medication is appropriate within a medical weight management program. More information about our medical approach can be found in our treatment program.
Who is Wegovy suitable for?
Wegovy can be prescribed to adults with:
- BMI ≥ 30 (obesity), or
- BMI 27 – 30 (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or sleep apnea.
The use is always individually assessed by a doctor.
Wegovy prescription
Wegovy is only available on prescription. A BIG-registered doctor assesses whether you meet the medical criteria and can then issue a prescription.
At The Body Clinic, a doctor assesses during the consultation whether treatment with medication is appropriate within a medical weight management program. More information about our medical approach can be found in our treatment program.
Wegovy reimbursement by health insurer
Wegovy may be reimbursed in some cases for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, when other agents have insufficient effect.
For use in weight loss, Wegovy is usually not covered by the basic package. Check with your health insurer or pharmacy.
The substances contained in Wegovy
Wegovy is a pre-filled pen with a fixed strength per pen.
Composition according to official product information:
- Active substance: semaglutide.
- Other excipients: disodium phosphate dihydrate, sodium chloride, water for injection.
Where do you inject Wegovy?
Wegovy is administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously).
Suitable injection sites:
- Abdomen (front of the middle)
- Upper leg (thigh)
- Upper arm
Do not inject into a vein or muscle. Always have the first use demonstrated by a doctor or nurse.
Side effects of Wegovy
Always read the package leaflet or SmPC for the complete and current list.
Frequently reported (usually mild to moderate, especially in the build-up phase):
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Indigestion (heartburn)
- Flatulence or reflux
- Fatigue
- Reaction at injection site (itching, redness, or pain)
Less common:
- Dizziness
- Exacerbation of reflux symptoms
- Changes in bowel movement pattern
Serious side effects — contact a doctor immediately:
- Persistent severe abdominal pain with or without vomiting (possible pancreatitis)
- Severe or prolonged nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (risk of dehydration or kidney damage)
- Pain in the upper right abdomen or jaundice (possible gallbladder or liver problem)
- Sudden blurred vision (possible diabetic retinopathy)
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat (allergic reaction)
Practical tips for gastrointestinal complaints:
- Dose according to the build-up schedule; do not increase too quickly.
- Eat slowly and smaller portions.
- Avoid fatty or spicy foods in the first few weeks.
- Drink small sips of water regularly.
Contraindications for the use of Wegovy
Wegovy should not be used:
- in case of hypersensitivity to semaglutide or excipients;
- in case of severe stomach or intestinal problems (such as gastroparesis);
- in children and adolescents under 18 years of age;
- during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Explanation:
Use in combination with other blood glucose-lowering agents may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Always discuss your complete medication and medical history with the doctor during the consultation.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Wegovy should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
There are no data on use in pregnant women. Animal studies have shown damage to the unborn animal at high doses.
Women who wish to become pregnant should stop Wegovy at least two months before pregnancy.
It is unknown whether semaglutide passes into breast milk.
Frequently asked questions about Wegovy
What is Wegovy and what is it used for?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is used for weight loss and weight maintenance in obesity or overweight with weight-related conditions.
How does Wegovy work to lose weight?
Semaglutide affects hunger and satiety, causing you to eat less and gradually lose weight.
How much weight do people lose on average with Wegovy?
In studies, people lost an average of 14–15 kg after 68 weeks, depending on the dose and lifestyle.
How quickly do I notice an effect?
Most users notice a change in appetite within a few weeks.
Is Wegovy available without a prescription?
No. Only on prescription from a BIG-registered doctor and via a pharmacy.
What Happens if I Forget a Dose?
Administer within 5 days; then skip and continue according to schedule. No double dose.
Is Wegovy suitable for me?
Your doctor will assess that based on your BMI, health, and medical history.
Resources
- EMA – SmPC Wegovy (semaglutide)
- Package leaflet Wegovy (NL, 2024)
- STEP-1 study: Wilding J.P.H. et al., N Engl J Med. 2021;384:989-1002.
