For many in the UK struggling with weight management, Wegovy (semaglutide) has emerged as a potential beacon of hope. This injectable medication, approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for specific criteria, has shown promise in aiding weight loss. But a crucial question remains: how long does it take to see results with Wegovy?
Understanding Wegovy’s Mechanism
Before exploring the wegovy timeline, it’s important to understand how it works. Wegovy belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These drugs mimic the effects of a natural gut hormone called GLP-1, which regulates appetite and blood sugar levels. By mimicking GLP-1, Wegovy:
- Increases feelings of fullness, leading to reduced calorie intake.
- Slows down stomach emptying, keeping you feeling satisfied for longer.
- May influence areas of the brain that control appetite and reward.
Is Wegovy a Good Fit for You?
Wegovy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s a breakdown of who can potentially benefit from this weight loss injection:
- Adults Aged 18-75: Wegovy is currently not recommended for individuals younger than 18 or older than 75.
- Those with Significant Weight: Generally, Wegovy is intended for adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher (considered obesity). In some cases, it might be an option for adults with a BMI of 27 or higher who also have a weight-related health condition.
However, there are some situations where Wegovy might not be suitable. These include:
- Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been established, so it’s best to avoid Wegovy during these times.
- Certain Medical Conditions: If you have liver or kidney problems, heart failure, or pancreatitis, Wegovy is not recommended.
- Type 1 Diabetes or Specific Diabetic Medications: Wegovy may interact with certain diabetes medications, so it’s important to discuss your diabetic management plan with your clinician.
- History of Eating Disorders: If you have a history of eating disorders, Wegovy might not be the best course of action.
- Existing Weight Loss Medications: Wegovy shouldn’t be combined with other weight-loss medications that work similarly, such as Victoza, Ozempic, Saxenda, or Trulicity.
Ultimately, the decision rests with healthcare professional:
Considering Wegovy as part of your weight loss plan? Priman offers a weight loss online assessment to help you make an informed decision. Our healthcare professionals will review and guide you through the process, taking into account your individual factors: Body Mass Index (BMI), medical history, current medications and overall Health:
Wegovy Timeline: The Weight Loss Journey
It’s vital to remember that Wegovy is not a magic bullet. While it can be a powerful tool, it works best alongside a healthy lifestyle that incorporates a balanced diet and regular exercise. Here’s a breakdown of the potential wegovy timeline for weight loss.
- Weeks 1-4: This initial phase focuses on adjusting to the medication. Your healthcare professional will likely prescribe a low dose (0.25mg) to minimise side effects like nausea and stomach upset. During this time, noticeable weight loss might be minimal.
- Weeks 4-12: As your body adjusts, the dose may be gradually increased. You might start experiencing a reduction in appetite and a feeling of fullness after meals. This can lead to a modest amount of weight loss, potentially around 3-5% of your starting body weight.
- Weeks 12-17: By this stage, many people on Wegovy experience a more substantial weight loss. Studies indicate an average weight loss of around 10% by the 20th week. Remember, this is an average, and individual results may vary.
- Year 1 and Beyond: Continued use of Wegovy, along with lifestyle changes, can lead to significant weight loss. Research suggests an average weight loss of 15% or more after a year of treatment. Some individuals may even experience a greater reduction.
Maximising Your Weight Loss with Wegovy
To optimise your weight loss journey with Wegovy, consider these tips:
- Work with your healthcare professional: Develop a personalised plan that includes a healthy diet, exercise routine, and appropriate Wegovy dosage.
- Embrace healthy eating: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Portion control is also crucial.
- Stay active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- Manage side effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. These usually subside within a few weeks. Discuss any persistent side effects with your clinician.
- Be patient and consistent: Weight loss is a gradual process. Stick with your plan and celebrate your milestones, big or small.
Key Takeaway
Wegovy can be a valuable tool for weight loss, but it’s not a standalone solution. With realistic expectations, a commitment to healthy habits, and along with a personalised treatment plan from your healthcare, you can achieve sustainable weight management with Wegovy. Remember, consistency is key. By following your clinician’s guidance and embracing a healthier lifestyle, Wegovy can help you reach your weight loss goals and improve your overall well-being.
References
Ryan, D. H. et al. (2024) “Long-term weight loss effects of semaglutide in obesity without diabetes in the SELECT trial,” Nature medicine, pp. 1–9. doi: 10.1038/s41591-024-02996-7.
Singh, G., Krauthamer, M. and Bjalme-Evans, M. (2022) “Wegovy (semaglutide): A new weight loss drug for chronic weight management,” Journal of investigative medicine: the official publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research, 70(1), pp. 5–13. doi: 10.1136/jim-2021-001952.
Wegovy® dosing schedule (2024) Wegovy.com. Available at: https://www.wegovy.com/taking-wegovy/dosing-schedule.html
Wilding, J. P. H. et al. (2021) “Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity,” The New England journal of medicine, 384(11), pp. 989–1002. doi: 10.1056/nejmoa2032183.
