How does Wegovy® Semaglutide work and is Semaglutide safe for weight loss?

Semaglutide approved under the brand name, Wegovy®, is an FDA-approved injectable prescription medication for adults who are either overweight or obese. Technically referred to as a “GLP-1 receptor agonist medicine,” Semaglutide mimics glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) by increasing insulin secretion. It specifically targets areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. This can help you eat less, thereby helping you lose weight. 

Yes, Semaglutide is safe. The GLP-1 class of drugs has been used safely in the treatment of diabetes since 2005. The addition of this class of drugs has revolutionized  the way diabetes is treated. Since its approval to be used for weight loss, the results have been unlike any other weight loss agent that has been used in the past.

We are so excited to get you started on your journey to weight loss and wellness!

Are Wegovy® and Ozempic® both used for Weight Loss?

No. Although these medications are both Semaglutide, Ozempic® is FDA approved for use in adults with Type 2 Diabetes. Wegovy® is FDA approved for weight loss. Both Wegovy® and Ozempic® are branded medicines made by Novo Nordisk, a Danish multinational pharmaceutical company. Since Wegovy® and Ozempic® contain semaglutide they should not be used while taking other GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines, (i.e. Trulicity, Victoza. Byetta, Bydureon, Saxenda, Rybelsus, Monjauro, Adelyxin).

How much weight can I lose with Wegovy® (Semaglutide)?

You can lose 1-2 pounds per week on average by taking the FDA-approved dosage of Wegovy® (Semaglutide) with the maximum dose titrated to 2.4 mg once per week. Wegovy® (Semaglutide) has been shown to be extremely effective in several studies. One of the first studies to evaluate the effectiveness of  Wegovy® (Semaglutide) enrolled over 1,000 patients. These patients were treated for 68 weeks and lost an average of 15% of their body weight which translated to an average weight loss over the time of 35 pounds. A second study that included over 900 patients showed that patients on average lost 17% of their body weight and an average of 41 pounds at 68 weeks. It is important to remember that everyone in these studies was counseled on improving dietary habits and increasing physical activity.

How often should I take Wegovy® (Semaglutide)?

To stay in accordance with the program, you should have  Wegovy® (Semaglutide) injections once a week, at any time of day, with or without food.

Does Wegovy® (Semaglutide) have possible side-effects? 

Yes.  Wegovy® (Semaglutide) can cause the following side effects: headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fatigue, upset stomach, constipation, and diarrhea, as well as belching and heartburn. Check with your Provider immediately if any of the aforementioned side effects occur while taking Wegovy® (Semaglutide). 

You should avoid taking  Wegovy® (Semaglutide) if you or your family have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

Is the Ideal Weight and Wellness Plan using Wegovy® (Semaglutide) for Weight Loss A Diet?

Not at all. The Ideal Weight and Wellness Plan is a program to guide you in making a lasting change in eating habits and lifestyle management while addressing metabolic dysfunction. While a reduced-calorie meal plan or ketogenic plan like Ideal Protein can certainly help increase the rate at which you lose weight (and help you keep it off), dieting is not required to lose weight on the program.

If you want to lose more weight faster, we can suggest a modified diet plan for you to follow and you will be given a discounted rate on the Ideal Protein foods.

What is the next step?

You’re in control! Take the next step by setting up a consultation.