What is Wegovy?
Discover what Wegovy is, how it works, and why it’s gaining attention as a weight loss solution. Learn about its benefits, side effects, and how it compares to other treatments to help you make an informed decision.
What is Wegovy and why can it help with weight loss?
Wegovy is a ground-breaking option in the battle against obesity and weight management, offering a targeted approach to appetite regulation. As a widely prescribed weight loss medication, it has empowered many individuals to reach their weight loss goals by helping them feel fuller for longer and reducing overall food intake. At The Slimming Clinic, we provide weight loss medication like Wegovy to support our patients in managing their weight effectively. This medication works by mimicking a natural hormone that regulates appetite, making it easier to maintain a healthy eating plan and achieve lasting weight loss success.
Wegovy is an injectable weight loss medication that works on the appetite receptors in the brain to reduce feelings of hunger and cravings. It contains an active medication called semaglutide, which is a type of GLP-1 receptor antagonist. It has been available in the UK and approved for use by NICE for treatment of obesity since March 2023.
The medication is a mimic of a normal hormone produced by the stomach when we have eaten, GLP-1, which sends signals to the appetite suppressing nerves in the brain, reducing hunger, but it also has an effect on the stomach. It slows down how quicky the food leaves the stomach after being eaten thereby increasing the level of fullness you feel and further suppressing your appetite.
In clinical studies those taking semaglutide alongside their healthy lifestyle changes had an average weight loss of 14.9% of their body weight compared with 2.4% without the medication after 68 weeks of treatment.
Watch our latest video where Dr Jane G one of our expert weight loss Doctors talkes about Wegovy.
→ Find out how to take Wegovy
What are the Wegovy side effects?
Wegovy, like many medications, can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, which often lessen as the body adjusts to the treatment. To manage these symptoms, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and herbal teas, eat small, frequent meals, and avoid foods high in fat or sugar. Ginger, peppermint, or fennel teas can also help ease nausea.
Some individuals may experience headaches, fatigue, or indigestion. Combat headaches by drinking plenty of fluids, resting in a quiet place, and consider using over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol. Indigestion may be alleviated with antacids.
Wegovy can also cause more serious side effects, although less common, such as pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or kidney problems. Injection site reactions, such as redness or swelling, may also occur. Applying a cold compress or using a non-drowsy antihistamine can help soothe these areas. If any side effects persist, worsen, or become concerning, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for further advice.
Remember, while some of the common side effects can be uncomfortable, they are manageable, and with the right strategies, you can continue your treatment with greater ease.
How does it compare with other treatments?
Wegovy offers a different approach to weight loss compared to daily weight loss tablets. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite and food intake, leading to significant weight loss over time. One of Wegovy’s advantages is its weekly dosing, which can be more convenient for those who prefer not to take a daily tablet.
In contrast, daily weight loss tablets often contain different active ingredients, such as phentermine or orlistat, and work through varying mechanisms like suppressing appetite or blocking fat absorption. These tablets require daily adherence, which might be less convenient. The choice between Wegovy and daily tablets depends on individual needs, lifestyle, and medical history, making it important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for weight management.
What is Mounjaro
UK DOCTORS & CLINICIANS
Our weight loss experts
Dr Charlotte Norton
Medical Director
Dr Jane G.
Consulting Doctor
Dr Max Richards
Consulting Doctor
Dr Daniel Ohio
Consulting Doctor
Sarah Adula
Consulting Dietitian
Interested in Weekly Injections?
Our weekly injections are designed to provide effective weight loss management, tailored to help you achieve your health goals.
Take a look at our wegovy injections page to find out more information on how to start, what to expect, and the support we offer to ensure you get the most out of your treatment.
Looking to start your weight loss journey, then take action today!
Book an appointment with one of our GMC-Registered Doctors who are weight loss experts and can ensure you get the best programme for you. Alternatively request your medication online using our online prescription service.