Wegovy is a prescription drug used to help people lose weight. It contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which is a GLP-1 agonist.
The medication became available in September 2023 in the UK for those living with obesity, as well as those with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes who are overweight.
But who is Wegovy suitable for? Is it only for those with obesity-related conditions? Who should not take Wegovy? Are there any drug interactions to consider? That’s what we’ll be exploring in this blog post. Read on to find out to find out who Wegovy is - and isn’t - suitable for.
On the NHS, Wegovy has been approved for those with a BMI of at least 35 with weight-related health conditions - or a BMI of 30 in some circumstances. To be eligible for a Wegovy prescription on the NHS, you must have at least one weight-related health condition - for example, cardiovascular disease or hypertension.
It is not available on the NHS for all the people who want to lose weight without having an obesity-related health condition.
You can get Wegovy through the NHS if you meet the NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) criteria. Unfortunately, despite the approval, the actual availability has been limited due to an overstretched NHS.
Even if you are luck enough to live in an area where Wegovy can be prescribed, it is possible that you will be waiting around 2 -3 years to be seen.
This does not mean that you are not eligible for Wegovy. Wegovy has been studied in people with a BMI of 27 kg/m2 with a weight-related condition or a BMI over 30 kg/m2 even without any weight-related consequence and has been shown to be beneficial.
There are additional benefits that have been shown in clinical research reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, death, certain cancers, and kidney disease in various groups of people. The only thing is that you will have to invest in your own health to avail treatment and the benefits that come with it.
Wegovy is not suitable for everyone. You should not take Wegovy if:
There are also precautions you should take - Wegovy might not be the best fit for you if:
Always disclose any medication you’re taking or medical conditions to your doctor when discussing whether Wegovy is right for you.
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Although Wegovy can be extremely beneficial, there are certain things to consider before - and whilst - taking it. From taking the right dosage to making long-term lifestyle changes, here are some considerations:
You must adhere to the right dosage instructions when taking Wegovy. You will gradually increase your dose over the span of 16-17 weeks until you reach the full maintenance dose. Here is the typical dosing schedule:
Only change your dose when instructed to do so by your doctor. Your doctor may adjust your dose if you experience side effects.
Always consult your doctor when - and before - taking Wegovy. Your doctor will determine whether it’s a right fit for you, and manage your dosage as needed. They will also advise you on the correct injection method, how to store your medication, and how to dispose of your used injections.
Wegovy is intended for long-term use, so it’s important to regularly check in with your doctor to ensure your Wegovy treatment is safe and effective throughout your course of treatment.
Wegovy side effects are usually mild and short-term, but it’s important to be aware of them so you can prepare. Some potential side effects may include:
Most side effects will subside when your body adjusts to the medication. If side effects persist or worsen, consult with your doctor.
On the box, Wegovy warns about the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumours, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). A large-scale study found that Wegovy did not significantly increase the risk of thyroid cancer compared to other diabetes medications.
Serious side effects are uncommon with Wegovy, but some potential long-term effects may include gallbladder problems, increased heart rate, low blood sugar, and pancreatitis.
Wegovy gives you the opportunity to create and maintain healthy habits to help you lose weight, and keep it off for good. The medication becomes much more effective when you combine it with lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise. Learn more about how long Wegovy takes to work here.
When you engage with a treatment plan - including regular follow-ups, you are far more likely to see positive results. Work closely with your doctor to achieve your goals.
At Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, we can provide you with ongoing support to help you make lasting changes. We can help you manage your diet and ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need. Our regular check-ins and tailored approach can give you the best chance of success.
Wegovy is one of the best injections for weight loss. You can find Wegovy in online pharmacies and through prescription services. You can get Wegovy through the NHS, through weight management programs (depending on your eligibility and availability in your area).
We offer Wegovy here at Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, with prices starting at just £149 per month. Begin your one-on-one online consultation to determine whether it’s the right fit for you. Begin your Wegovy journey today.
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Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”
Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”
Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”