Learn how Wegovy weight loss injections work, from effectiveness to side effects to ease of administration. Compare the Wegovy process to options like pills, liquids, and other shots.
Wegovy, also known by the generic name semaglutide, has exploded onto the weight loss scene in recent years.
But what are Wegovy injections, and how does dosing and administering them compare to other treatments? Let’s dive in to the ultimate guide on this hot new medication option.
What is Wegovy?
First, a quick explainer for anyone asking, “What are Wegovy injections and how do they spur weight loss?”
Wegovy contains semaglutide – a compound that mimics the appetite-reducing hormone GLP-1 and helps you feel full faster and longer.
The killer perk? The injectable Wegovy formulation makes the medication much more effective than oral alternatives. Cue the success stories of significant weight drops with Wegovy!
Wegovy Injection Overview
- Self-injected under skin of abdomen, thigh, or arm
- Once-weekly injection given via prefilled, single-dose pen
- Available doses: 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 1.7mg or 2.4mg per week
- Dose gradually increased over 16+ weeks for safety & tolerance
How Wegovy Stacks Up: Pills vs Liquids vs Injections?
Wegovy sets itself apart from traditional weight loss meds in a few key ways:
Formulation
| Type | Examples | Notes |
| Pills | Phentermine, Contrave, Xenical | Oral tablets are convenient but less potent |
| Liquids | Saxenda | Daily under-skin injections |
| Injections | Wegovy | Highest efficacy with weekly dosing |
Effectiveness
- Wegovy delivers far higher concentrations to precisely target hunger/fullness signals
- Patients losing 2-3x more weight on average vs older meds like Saxenda
Side Effects
- gastric issues like nausea or diarrhea most common but often resolve
- risk of any injection: bruising, bleeding, or reactions at application site
Administration & Duration
- Saxenda requires daily self-injections vs once weekly for Wegovy
- Wegovy prescribed for longer durations given better weight maintenance trends
Cost
- All non-generic weight loss meds are expensive, most around $1000-1500 monthly
- Wegovy sits on the higher end
- Copay programs and insurance coverage provide financial assistance
The takeaway – while injections come with a learning curve, many feel empowered by actively participating in their treatment through self-administration while enjoying life-changing results from the higher efficacy of Wegovy.
Step-by-Step Wegovy Injection Instructions
If needles make you squeamish, don’t tune out just yet. Walking through what to expect helps ease nerves over starting injections. Here’s how to administer Wegovy step-by-step:
Before Injecting
- Wash hands thoroughly
- Take Wegovy pen and needle pack out of fridge
- Let sit at room temperature for minimum 15-30 minutes before injecting
Prepping the Autoinjector Pen
- Open needle cap from outer sterile package
- Hold pen firmly and attach needle
- Pull off outer needle cap
- Pull off inner needle cap slowly to avoid damaging needle
Prepping Injection Site
- Clean chosen injection site (abdomen, thigh, back of upper arm) with alcohol wipe
- Allow to fully dry
Ready to Inject
- Pinch roughly 2-inch fold of skin between fingers at prepared site
- Orient pen at 90° angle, press needle fully into skin fold
- Press button on pen – no need to hold in place once clicked
- Keep pinched for full 6 seconds to allow complete medication delivery
Finish
- Pull pen straight out
- Let go of pinched skin
- Press a cotton ball to site; massage area 10 secs to avoid leakage
- Discard pen safely
It may seem intimidating, but you’ll be a pro in no time!
Wegovy FAQs: Effectiveness, Weight Loss Speed, Side Effects
Let’s tackle some common questions about what to expect with Wegovy:
How much weight can I lose on Wegovy?
- Average weight loss falls around 15% over 68 weeks
- Many lose 20% or higher based on diet, activity, dosing
How fast will I lose weight on Wegovy?
- Typical pace ranges 1-2 lbs per week
- Gradual drop reinforces long-term loss over “crash dieting”
What are the most common Wegovy side effects?
- Nausea, diarrhea
- Effects typically worst at start then fade
- Risk of gallstones requires monitoring
How long is treatment with Wegovy?
- Used for chronic weight management up to 2 years
- Compare to just 12-16 weeks for old meds
What happens when stopping Wegovy?
- No “rebound” weight gain seen in studies
- If resumed after >12 weeks, dosage starts over
Can I take Wegovy with other meds?
- Generally well-tolerated but confirm with your provider
Am I a candidate for Wegovy?
- Approved for chronic weight management in significantly overweight or obese populations
- Not for short-term, cosmetic weight loss
Discuss your full medical history with your provider to determine if Wegovy fits your needs.
Wegovy vs Other Weight Loss Meds: The Takeaway
Wegovy represents the next era of prescription weight management. With higher concentrations and less frequent dosing packing more punch, Wegovy delivers unmatched results – at the tradeoff of affordability and injection requirements. Talk with your medical provider about whether investment in Wegovy aligns with your health and wellness objectives.
