Wegovy
Semaglutide · 2.4 mg/week
Novo Nordisk
GLP-1 receptor agonist — mimics the hormone GLP-1 to reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying.
FDA Approved
June 2021
Last Updated
March 2026
Sources
5 peer-reviewed
Standard
YMYL / E-E-A-T
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Mitchell, MD (Board-Certified Obesity Medicine) · Editorial Policy
How Wegovy Works
GLP-1 receptor agonist — mimics the hormone GLP-1 to reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying.
Key Pharmacological Actions
- • Appetite suppression via GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus and brainstem
- • Delayed gastric emptying, extending the feeling of fullness after meals
- • Reduced "food noise" — the constant preoccupation with food
- • Improved insulin sensitivity independent of weight loss
- • Glucose-dependent insulin secretion, reducing hypoglycemia risk
Dosing & Administration
Titration Guidance
Wegovy uses a gradual dose escalation schedule over 20 weeks to full dose. Starting at 0.25 mg/week allows your body to adjust and minimizes GI side effects. Do not skip doses or increase faster than your physician recommends — this increases the risk of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If side effects are severe at any dose, your doctor may extend the time at that dose before increasing.
Clinical Trial Results
STEP 1
202114.9% mean weight loss at 68 weeks vs 2.4% placebo
SELECT
202320% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events
Average Weight Loss: In clinical trials, patients taking Wegovy lost an average of 15–17% of their body weight. Individual results vary significantly — some patients lose considerably more or less than the average. Response depends on factors including baseline weight, diet, exercise, dose tolerated, and individual biology.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Wegovy are gastrointestinal. They typically peak during dose escalation and improve over time as your body adjusts.
Contraindications
- • Personal/family history of MTC
- • MEN2 syndrome
- • Pregnancy
This is not a complete list of side effects. Serious but rare side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and allergic reactions. If you experience severe abdominal pain, signs of allergic reaction, or any concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Consult the full FDA prescribing information for a comprehensive list.
Cost & Insurance Coverage
Coverage Information
- • Commercial Insurance: Many plans cover Wegovy with prior authorization. Requirements typically include documentation of BMI ≥30 (or ≥27 with comorbidity) and, in some cases, documented failure of lifestyle modification.
- • Medicare Part D: Coverage is expanding. Wegovy is now covered for patients with established cardiovascular disease following the SELECT trial results.
- • Manufacturer Savings: Novo Nordisk offers savings cards that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible commercially insured patients.
Eligibility Criteria
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- ✓Highest weight loss data of any injectable GLP-1
- ✓Once weekly dosing
- ✓FDA-approved specifically for obesity
- ✓Cardiovascular benefit data (SELECT trial)
Limitations
- ✗Expensive without insurance
- ✗Supply shortages in 2022–2024
- ✗Requires injection
- ✗GI side effects common during titration
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Wegovy — From Our Blog
Medically reviewed articles to help you understand Wegovy (Semaglutide).
Ozempic vs Wegovy: Which GLP-1 is Right for You?
Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide, but they're approved for different uses. Understand the key differences in dosing, cost, and insurance coverage.
Semaglutide Weight Loss Results After 6 Months: What the Data Actually Shows
What does six months on semaglutide actually look like? We break down the clinical trial data, real-world averages, and the variables that separate top responders from modest ones.
GLP-1 Medication Availability in 2026: Shortage Status, Supply Updates & What to Do
The worst of the GLP-1 shortage era (2022–2024) is over — but availability is still uneven across drugs, doses, and pharmacies. Here's the current status and what to do if your medication is hard to find.
Medical Disclaimer
This page provides general information about this medication for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with your healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or pharmacist before starting, changing, or stopping any medication. Drug pricing, insurance coverage, and clinical data may change after publication.