Introduction
Wegovy has become an increasingly popular new weight loss medication, particularly in the UK, after being recently approved for use by the NHS and private clinics. But as with any drug, safety is a major concern.
This article explains how Wegovy works, what the benefits and risks are, for whom it is appropriate, and what experts and patients have to say. Whether you are thinking about Wegovy for yourself or just curious to know more, this guide is designed to provide you with clear, trustworthy information.
Quick Summary
Wegovy is a prescription weight loss injection that includes semaglutide, an active ingredient that lowers appetite and calorie consumption. It works for some, but not everyone. People who have certain medical conditions, women who are pregnant and those who are taking certain medications should also steer clear. Before starting Wegovy, it is crucial to have a good understanding of the potential risks, side effects, and your personal medical history.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide, which is a version of a natural hormone your body produces naturally called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This is a hormone that helps you regulate appetite and food consumption. Semaglutide was initially developed for type 2 diabetes, but when administered at a higher dose, research has shown that it leads to weight loss.
The Food and Drug Administration FDA has approved it to lower the risk of cardiovascular events in adults with cardiovascular disease. In 2023, adults will be prescribed Wegovy in the UK who meet the following NICE approved criteria:
- Have obesity or overweight with Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more
- Have a BMI of 27 or higher and have health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure or sleep apnoea.
Read NICE’s approval here.
Wegovy is only available in certain circumstances on the NHS and via private clinics like Harley Street Skin Clinic where you will follow a structured weight management plan.
How Does Wegovy Work?
Wegovy works by acting like GLP-1, a hormone that your body naturally makes after a meal. This hormone works to tell your brain you are already full, slow digestion, and help achieve low blood sugar levels.
Key Effects:
- Reduces hunger and cravings
- Slows stomach emptying
- Helps you feel full faster and for longer
This helps you lose excess weight because you eat less and remain on a lower-calorie diet without feeling deprived of food.
Comparison to Other Medications:
- Saxenda: Another GLP-1 agonist, this also is a daily injection but is taken in a higher dose for weight loss.
- Orlistat: Acts in the gut to block fat absorption; can have unpleasant digestive side effects.
- Ozempic: A second semaglutide-based diabetes drug, occasionally prescribed off-label for weight loss.
Wegovy is unique because you take it once a week, and it has a more potent appetite-suppressing effect.
Assessing the Safety of Wegovy
Safety has been studied in several Wegovy clinical trials, including the STEP 1 trial where people that have taken it lost an average of 15% of body weight over 68 weeks. This is why it is among the most powerful weight loss drugs on the market today.
Common Side Effects
When people start Wegovy, on average they have mild to moderate side effects, particularly during the dose escalation phase:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Fatigue
They tend to ease off after a couple of weeks once your body gets used to the drug. Their occurrence can be managed by eating smaller, low-fat meals.
Serious Risks
Although uncommon, serious side effects may occur:
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas.
- Gallbladder problems: Such as gallstones and inflammation.
- Kidney damage: It is usually the result of dehydration from vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Tumors on the thyroid: Uncovered in studies of animals, prompting warnings on the drug label. Human risk is ongoing.
If you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting that is relentless or signs of dehydration, you should call your doctor right away.
Long-Term Safety
Initial studies and continued research have shown that Wegovy is generally safe to use long-term to maintain weight loss, particularly under the supervision of a health care provider. Others may need ongoing treatment, and regular check-ups are important.
Wegovy Contraindications and Precautions
Wegovy is not safe for everyone. There are people who should not take it because of increased risks or other medical concerns.
Do Not Take Wegovy If You:
- Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or medullary thyroid carcinoma, a rare form of thyroid cancer.
- Have MEN 2: Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
- You have had a serious allergic reaction to semaglutide, or any of Wegovy’s ingredients.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have a history of significant gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroparesis.
These are described in the Wegovy prescribing information.
Caution With Other Medications
Tell your primary care provider about all the medicines you take. Wegovy may interact with:
- Insulin or sulfonylureas to treat diabetes
- Diuretics or other medicines that change the body fluid balance
- Other GLP-1 receptor agonists (duplicate)
If you are not sure, ask the pharmacist or your clinic team.
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Is Wegovy Safe for Weight Loss in Non-Diabetics?
Yes. Unlike some drugs developed to treat type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is a popular weight loss drug approved for the specific purpose of treating people who do not have diabetes but are seeking a weight loss strategy, provided they fall within the same BMI range and have weight related health conditions.
This means non-diabetics may be able to use Wegovy freely as long as the following apply:
- Before they begin, they undergo medical evaluations.
- There could be a health hazard because of their weight.
- They are willing to make lifestyle changes, including eating a reduced calorie diet and exercise.
Wegovy should be prescribed in line with NICE guidelines and only under the supervision of a professional and as part of a structured weight loss plan.
Long-Term Use: How Long is It Safe to Take Wegovy?
For some, Wegovy may be necessary for only a few months, for others, longer term use may be beneficial.
What Studies Say:
- In studies that lasted more than a year, users continued to lose weight.
- Stopping Wegovy typically results in weight regain, which indicates that treatment should be continued.
Clinicians recommend regular reviews to assess:
- If the drug is still effective
- If the side effects are tolerable
- If weight goals have been reached
Long term use is safe when used under the guidance of a healthcare provider for many people.
What Real Users Are Saying
Users share negative as well as positive experiences. They are anecdotal, but they do provide some useful insights.
Positive Reviews:
- Large weight reduction (over 10 to 20 kg or more).
- Less emotional or binge eating.
- Increased confidence and motivation.
Common Complaints:
- Nausea and fatigue in the early weeks.
- Expense, especially in private treatment.
- Plateauing after a few months.
Everyone’s body responds differently. Which is why professional monitoring matters.
Conclusion
Wegovy is a prescription injectable weight loss drug that can help people lose weight and improve their health. But it might not be the one-size-fits-all answer.
It is generally safe for:
- Overweight and obese adults
- Individuals who are willing to change their lifestyle
- Non-diabetic and diabetics (under proper supervision)
It is not safe for:
- People with certain thyroid, or gastrointestinal conditions
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Any person not appropriately assessed by a health care provider
If you have been thinking about Wegovy, the next best thing would be to have a talk with a licensed professional in weight management. And at Harley Street Skin Clinic you will receive bespoke consultations, as well as all the help you need to ensure a smooth and successful journey.
FAQs
- Is Wegovy safe for long-term use?
Yes, existing studies demonstrate that Wegovy is safe for most people to take long term under a doctor’s care.
- What are the common side effects of Wegovy?
The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and fatigue. These usually lessen over time.
- Who should not take Wegovy?
It is not safe for those with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, MEN 2, severe digestion disorders, or for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Can non-diabetics use Wegovy for weight loss?
Yes, Wegovy is available to non-diabetic patients who qualify by BMI and health conditions.
- How long should one stay on Wegovy?
Duration varies by individual. Some of them last a few months or so, others last longer and many of you will need longer treatment to keep the effects you achieve.
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