Wegovy (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable prescription medicine used for weight loss in adults who are overweight or have obesity, and to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. In order to maximise benefits, Wegovy should be used alongside a plan for diet and exercise. Generally, treatment can be suitable for patients with a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27 or above if you have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure.
Start AssessmentWegovy is a prescription medicine containing the active substance semaglutide. It is prescribed for adults to support weight management and weight control, and is also used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It works by acting on receptors in the brain that control your appetite, which can make you feel fuller, less hungry, and experience fewer food cravings.
This medicine is designed to work alongside lifestyle modifications. To achieve the best results, it should be part of a plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Your GP or specialist will prescribe this based on your specific health needs.
Eligibility is primarily determined by your Body Mass Index (BMI), which is a measure of your weight relative to your height:
BMI of 30kg/m² or higher: You are generally eligible for treatment based on your weight alone.
BMI of 27kg/m² to 29.9kg/m²: You can't usually access the medication based on weight alone in this range. You'll need to have at least one weight-related health condition, such as:
A doctor will check your health profile to ensure there are no medical reasons that prevent you from taking it. For example, generally, you won't be suitable for Wegovy if you have:
Clinical studies have shown patients can lose up to 17% of their weight by following a combination of weekly Wegovy injections over an extended period and consistent lifestyle changes.
With our personalised plan, you could reach 86 kg in 10 months. That's a weight loss of 14 kg.
This projection is based on the average results from large-scale clinical trials and is for informational purposes only.
Clinical trials have observed the following changes for some patients:
Note: Individual results vary. These outcomes are based on clinical trial data and should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Before first use, your healthcare provider should show you how to inject it. Always read the full "Instructions for Use" leaflet provided with your medicine.
Important Note: Every time you inject, select a new location that is at least a finger's width apart from the previous site. Rotating your injection sites is crucial for preventing the development of persistent, hard lumps (fatty nodules), which can form and reduce how well your medication works.
Like all medicines, Wegovy can cause side effects, although not everybody will experience them. It's important to be aware of what to look for.
Common (may affect more than 1 in 10): headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain, feeling weak or tired. These usually pass over time as your body adjusts.
Rare – seek immediate medical attention:
All medical information on this page has been reviewed by our clinical partners at MedicOnline