Wegovy® injection (semaglutide) is a prescription medication approved for chronic weight management in adults and certain adolescents with obesity, or in adults who are overweight with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. Wegovy is part of a treatment plan that includes reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Wegovy works by mimicking the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone, which helps regulate appetite and food intake. By slowing digestion, reducing hunger, and promoting a sense of fullness, Wegovy can help patients lower calorie intake and support meaningful, sustained weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.
How to Use
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Wegovy® is typically prescribed as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection (under the skin) in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
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Treatment is usually started at a lower dose and gradually increased over several months to improve tolerability.
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A common dosing approach begins with 0.25 mg once weekly, with stepwise increases until reaching the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg once weekly, as directed by your healthcare provider.
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Injections are given on the same day each week, with or without food.
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Injection sites should be rotated each week, and a new needle should be used for every injection.
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If a dose is missed, your healthcare provider will advise whether to take it when remembered or wait until the next scheduled dose.
Black Box Warning
Wegovy® (semaglutide) carries a boxed warning regarding the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. It should not be used in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Patients should promptly report symptoms such as a lump in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Important Notes and Warnings
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The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, especially during dose escalation.
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Serious but less common risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, low blood sugar (particularly if used with diabetes medications), and kidney problems.
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Wegovy should not be used together with other semaglutide products or other GLP-1 receptor agonists.
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Not recommended in pregnancy; treatment should be discontinued at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy.
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Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, as Wegovy may delay gastric emptying and affect absorption of oral drugs.
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Wegovy is intended for long-term use as part of a comprehensive weight management program.
Storage
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Store Wegovy pens in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) before first use.
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After first use, pens may be kept at room temperature (59°F to 86°F / 15°C to 30°C) or refrigerated, and must be used within 28 days.