Wegovy: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know
When you hear Wegovy, a once-weekly injectable medication approved for chronic weight management in adults. Also known as semaglutide, it’s not just another diet pill — it’s a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a natural hormone in your body to help you feel full longer and eat less. Unlike older weight loss drugs that just suppress appetite, Wegovy works with your brain’s hunger signals, making it easier to stick to a lower-calorie diet without constant willpower battles.
Wegovy is designed for adults with obesity or overweight who also have weight-related health issues like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnea. It’s not meant for quick fixes or cosmetic weight loss. Clinical trials showed people lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks — that’s about 30 pounds for someone weighing 200. But results vary. Some lose more, some less. What’s consistent is that people who combine Wegovy with lifestyle changes — eating better, moving more — see the best outcomes.
Wegovy is part of a growing group of medications called GLP-1 agonists, which also includes Ozempic (used for diabetes) and Saxenda (another weight loss option). But Wegovy has the highest approved dose for weight management. It’s injected once a week, usually in the belly, thigh, or upper arm. Most people start with a low dose and slowly increase over months to reduce side effects like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea — which are common at first but often fade as your body adjusts.
It’s not for everyone. People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 should avoid it. There’s also a warning about possible pancreatitis and gallbladder problems. And while it’s approved for long-term use, you can’t just stop taking it and expect to keep the weight off. Studies show most people regain weight if they stop the medication.
Wegovy doesn’t work alone. It’s not a magic solution. It’s a tool — one that helps you retrain your body’s hunger signals so you can make lasting changes. That’s why doctors pair it with nutrition counseling and activity plans. It’s also expensive without insurance, and coverage varies. Some insurers require proof you’ve tried other methods first.
If you’re considering Wegovy, talk to your doctor about your health history, current medications, and what your goals really are. It’s not about chasing a number on the scale — it’s about improving your health, energy, and quality of life. Below, you’ll find real patient stories, comparisons with other weight loss drugs, and practical tips on managing side effects, insurance hurdles, and long-term success.
GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy and Zepbound offer far greater weight loss than older drugs like orlistat or phentermine, but they cost more, require injections, and have stronger side effects. Here's how they compare - and which one might work for you.
Dec, 7 2025