Description

What Is Wegovy

Wegovy is a weight-loss medication that was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2021 for long-term weight management . It is a weekly injection that contains the active ingredient semaglutide. Wegovy is manufactured by the same company as Ozempic, another popular weight-loss medication

What is wegovy used for?

Wegovy is an FDA-approved medication used for chronic weight management in individuals who are 12 years and older. It is intended to be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity .

Indications for Wegovy use are as follows:

 

For Adults:

• Obese individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater .
• Overweight individuals with a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater, who also have medical problems such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol related to their weight [1].
  For Pediatric Patients (12 years and older):

Obese individuals with an initial BMI at or above the 95th percentile for their age and sex
It is important to note that Wegovy contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which is also found in other medications such as Ozempic and Rybelsus. Therefore, these products should not be used together . Ozempic is a subcutaneous weekly injection used to lower blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, while Rybelsus is an oral tablet taken once a day for the same purpose

Before taking wegovy medicine:

Wegovy is a medication that contains the active ingredient semaglutide . It is used for chronic weight management in adults with overweight or obesity, in conjunction with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity .

According to the FDA, the inactive ingredients in Wegovy include:

• Disodium phosphate dihydrate, 1.42 mg
• Sodium chloride, 8.25 mg
• Water for injection
• Hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide may be added to adjust pH .

It is important to note that Wegovy should not be used if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients . Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe rash or itching, dizziness or lightheadedness, and a rapid heartbeat .

Before using Wegovy, it is essential to inform your doctor about your medical history, including any of the following conditions Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (tumors in your glands)
Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (a type of thyroid cancer)
Stomach or intestinal disorder
Pancreatitis
Kidney disease
Eye problems caused by diabetes (diabetic retinopathy)
History of depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental health issues
Animal studies have shown that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, can cause thyroid tumors or thyroid cancer. However, it is not known if these effects would occur in humans. It is recommended to discuss the potential risks with your doctor

If you are planning to become pregnant, it is advised to stop using Wegovy at least two months before conception, as this medication may harm the baby. It is important to consult with your doctor to find a safer alternative during this time. Controlling diabetes and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial during pregnancy, and losing weight while pregnant can be harmful to the unborn baby

If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, it is unknown whether Wegovy passes into breast milk. It is recommended to discuss this with your healthcare professional to determine the best way to feed your baby while using this medication.

How do I utilize Wegovy?

Please follow the provided instructions for using Wegovy accurately, as directed by your healthcare provider. Prior to beginning the medication, your healthcare provider should provide training on how to properly use it.

• Wegovy is administered through subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin in the abdomen (stomach), thigh, or upper arm using a pen device. It should not be injected into a muscle or vein
• The medication should be used once a week on the same day, at any time of the day. It can be taken with or without food.
• Only prepare the injection when you are ready to administer it. If the medicine appears cloudy, has changed color, or contains particles, consult your pharmacist
• If you decide to change your weekly injection day, begin the new schedule at least two days after the previous injection.
• Rotate the injection site with each administration. While you can inject into the same general area each week, it’s important to choose a different spot each time. Avoid injecting into tender, bruised, red, or hardened areas of the skin, as well as areas with scars or stretch marks.
• The Wegovy pen is designed for one-time use, and the dose is already set. The needle is covered and not visible.
• When you’re ready to inject, remove the pen cap. Avoid touching or pushing the needle cover to prevent accidental needle stick injuries.
• To administer the injection, firmly press the pen against the skin and hold it until the yellow bar stops moving. If the yellow bar doesn’t start moving, apply more pressure.
• During the injection, you will hear two clicks: the first indicates the start of the injection, and the second signifies that the injection is ongoing
• After use, the needle cover will lock when the pen is removed from your skin. You cannot pause the injection and resume it later.
• Do not remove the pen from your skin until the yellow bar in the pen
• After use, the needle cover will lock when the pen is removed from your skin. You cannot pause the injection and resume it later.
• Dispose of the used Wegovy pen immediately in an FDA-cleared sharps disposal container. Do not dispose of the pen in regular household trash.
• Individuals who are visually impaired or have vision problems should not use the Wegovy pen without assistance from someone trained in its use.