Description
How Wegovy Works
Wegovy works by activating the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor in the gut.
GLP-1 is an incretin hormone that naturally helps regulate blood sugar levels in response to eating. Wegovy mimics the effects of GLP-1, enhancing its activity in the body. This mechanism helps to:
- Release insulin when blood sugar is high
- Lower blood sugar levels
- Stop the liver from making and releasing too much sugar
- Slow the passage of food through the stomach, which prolongs feelings of fullness
- Reduce appetite and food intake, supporting weight loss
By targeting the GLP-1 pathway, Wegovy helps with appetite control, glucose regulation, and long-term weight management.
EMeds Wegovy Treatment Overview
Wegovy is a once-weekly injection designed to support weight loss and blood sugar control. It is self-administered under the skin—typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm—as per manufacturer guidelines. The injection site should be rotated after each dose. It can be taken with or without meals at any time of the day.
Available Strengths of Wegovy Pens
EMeds supply Wegovy as pre-filled pens in the following strengths:
- 0.25 mg
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 1.7 mg
- 2.4 mg
These pens are designed for easy, once-weekly self-injection and allow for stepwise dose increases based on individual treatment plans.
Treatment usually begins with a low starting dose of 0.25 mg per week for the first 4 weeks after the initial consultation with our healthcare professionals. After that, the dose may be gradually increased until the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg weekly is reached, depending on individual response and tolerability.
The medication works by targeting hormones that influence appetite and digestion, helping people feel full sooner, stay satisfied longer, and experience fewer food cravings. As a result, it becomes easier to eat less and lose weight over time.
Understanding the Risks and Safety of Wegovy
Wegovy is effective for weight loss and blood sugar control, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe while taking them.
Common Side Effects
Many people taking Wegovy experience mild to moderate stomach-related issues, especially when starting or titrating up their dose. The most common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Indigestion
- Burping
- Headache
- Fatigue
These side effects are usually temporary and go away over time. However, if they become severe, they could lead to dehydration, which may cause serious issues like kidney problems. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids and let your doctor know if you feel very unwell.
Some people may also experience:
- Mild hair loss
- Skin rashes
- Redness or irritation where the injection is given
These are generally not serious and go away with time.
Most Serious Side Effects (Less Common)
Acute Pancreatitis
Although rare, some people taking GLP-1 medicines like Wegovy may develop inflammation of the pancreas (called acute pancreatitis). This is a serious condition. Watch out for:
- Severe, ongoing pain in the stomach that moves to your back
- Nausea or vomiting that doesn’t go away
If you have these symptoms, seek medical help straight away. If pancreatitis is confirmed, the medicine will need to be stopped permanently.
Gallbladder Problems
Some people taking Wegovy have developed gallbladder issues.
Inform your doctor right away if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Pain in the upper right side of your stomach (abdomen)
- Fever
- Yellowing of your skin or eyes (this is called jaundice)
- Clay-coloured or pale stools
These could be signs of a gallbladder problem, such as gallstones or inflammation, and should seek medical attention.
Serious Allergic Reactions – When to Get Help
Stop using Wegovy right away and seek emergency medical help if you experience any of the following:
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- A severe rash or intense itching
- Fainting or feeling very dizzy
- A very fast heartbeat
These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction, which can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
Pregnancy and Contraception
Wegovy should not be taken during pregnancy or when planning to become pregnant, because we don’t yet know if they are safe for unborn babies.
If you’re planning a pregnancy:
- Stop Wegovy (semaglutide) at least 2 months before trying to get pregnant
If you’re using the pill:
- Wegovy does not impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.All women of child bearing age and sexually active should use contraception (contraceptive pills, condoms, an IUD, or implant) while taking Wegovy.
Breastfeeding
Do not take Wegovy while breastfeeding, as it is unknown if they’re safe for babies. Always speak with a healthcare professional for advice.
Mental Health
There is no current evidence that GLP-1 medicines cause depression or suicidal thoughts.
If you do feel low or have any worrying thoughts, speak to someone immediately—a healthcare professional, friend, or mental health service.
Before Surgery or Operations
Tell your doctor or surgical team if you’re taking a GLP-1 medicine like Wegovy. As Wegovy slows down how quickly your stomach empties, this could increase the risk of complications under general anaesthesia (used during surgery). Your healthcare team might need to adjust your pre-surgery instructions.
Missed a Dose of Wegovy? Here’s What to Do:
If you remember within 5 days:
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
If more than 5 days have passed:
Skip the missed dose. Just take your next dose on your regular scheduled day.