With obesity rates on the rise across the UK, the search for reliable and medically supervised weight loss treatments has become increasingly important. Among the new generation of treatments, Wegovy has emerged as a highly talked-about option. Licensed in the UK for chronic weight management, Wegovy weekly injection offers a non-surgical, clinically backed method for adults struggling with obesity or weight-related health conditions.
In this blog, we will examine Wegovy in more detail: What is it, how does it work, and why is it receiving so much attention?
How Effective is Wegovy for Weight Loss?
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a compound originally developed for managing Type 2 diabetes. In clinical trials, including the STEP studies, Wegovy demonstrated remarkable results—patients lost an average of 15% of their body weight, a figure rarely seen in non-surgical weight loss interventions.
The mechanism? It mimics a naturally occurring hormone known as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which targets areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. The result is that users feel fuller for longer, experience fewer cravings, and are more likely to reduce their overall calorie intake.
This isn’t a quick fix, nor a replacement for healthy habits. But for many patients, it serves as a catalyst for long-term weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.
Weekly Injection for Weight Loss: What Makes Wegovy Different?
Unlike daily weight loss injections or tablets that require strict routines, Wegovy is administered once weekly using a pre-filled injection pen. This convenience is a significant benefit for people with busy lifestyles or those who struggle with daily medication adherence.
The treatment typically begins with a low dose of 0.25 mg per week, gradually increasing over several months to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. This step-up approach helps the body adapt to the medication, minimising common Wegovy side effects like nausea or constipation.
Wegovy pens are designed for easy self-administration, with recommended injection sites including the upper arms, thighs, or abdomen. Rotating the injection site weekly helps reduce skin irritation and ensures effective absorption.
Is Wegovy Better Than Mounjaro?
Wegovyisn’t the only GLP-1-based treatment available. Mounjaro, an injection that acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, has recently gained popularity.
But is it better?
Wegovy has the advantage of being licensed specifically for weight loss in the UK, making it a trusted first-line option for eligible patients. Mounjaro is still undergoing regulatory assessments for broader use. While some studies suggest Mounjaro may lead to slightly greater weight loss, the choice between the two often comes down to patient history, existing health conditions, and clinical advice.
Ultimately, Wegovyremains a well-established and widely studied solution for obesity management.
How Wegovy Works in the Body
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, mimics the GLP-1 hormone, naturally produced in the gut. This hormone plays a role in:
- Reducing appetite.
- Slowing down gastric emptying.
- Regulating blood glucose levels.
By targeting the brain’s appetite control centres, it helps users feel satiated sooner and for longer after meals. This naturally leads to reduced calorie consumption, without the mental fatigue that often accompanies dieting.
Wegovy also impacts insulin sensitivity and may help with blood sugar control, particularly in patients who are prediabetic or have type 2 diabetes.
Wegovy and Cardiometabolic Benefits
Wegovy injection does more than support weight loss—it also provides measurable cardiovascular benefits.
Studies such as SELECT and STEP have shown that Wegovy use is linked to:
- Lower blood pressure.
- Reduced LDL cholesterol levels.
- Lower triglycerides.
- Decreased risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.
These changes occur as early as the first few weeks of treatment. Over time, they contribute to a lower overall risk of cardiovascular disease, a significant concern for many people living with obesity.
Wegovy Side Effects: What to Expect
Like any prescription medication, Wegovy may cause side effects. Common ones include:
- Nausea
- Sore throat
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Headaches
- Abdominal discomfort
These are often temporary and tend to subside as the body adjusts to the medication.
More serious side effects, although rare, may include:
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder issues
- Low blood sugar (particularly in patients with diabetes)
- Possible thyroid complications
It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage schedule and speak to a healthcare provider if any symptoms persist or worsen.
Who is Wegovy For?
Wegovy is licensed for adults aged 18 and over who meet one of the following criteria:
- BMI of 30 or higher (obese).
- BMI of 27 or more with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
It is prescription-only, and individuals must undergo a health assessment to ensure suitability.
A Structured Approach to Weight Management
Wegovyrepresents a significant advancement in the medical management of obesity. Its once-weekly format, powerful appetite-suppressing effects, and cardiovascular benefits make it an important medication for patients looking for a structured, long-term approach to weight management.
As with any treatment, it is most effective when combined with a balanced diet, increased physical activity, and regular check-ins with healthcare professionals.
Ready to Start Your Wegovy Journey?
For those considering medically supervised weight management, it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional. You can shop Wegovy from licensed pharmacies like Pharmacy Planetfollowing an online consultation, where a prescriber will assess your suitability for treatment like Wegovy based on your medical history and current health status.