Wegovy
Wegovy contains the active ingredient Semaglutide. Semaglutide is similar to a hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This is an appetite hormone that helps regulate hunger and is released by the intestines after a meal.
Due to being similar to GLP-1, Wegovy regulates appetite causing you to feel fuller and less hungry. This can lead to eating fewer calories and losing weight.
Focussing on eating a reduced-calorie diet will further enhance the benefits of Wegovy.
It comes as an injection and is a prescription-only medication
Wegovy is an effective weight-loss injection pen. It works by suppressing your appetite as well as reducing overall food cravings. It is to be used in conjunction with a calorie-controlled diet and exercise program.
There are risks of possible side effects when using Wegovy, as with any medication. Most side effects are quite mild and subside over time. Others can be more serious and, in this stance, should be reported to your GP right away when using Wegovy. Feel free to contact a member of our team if you have any questions regarding the side effects and use of Wegovy injections.
Common side effects can include:
· Fatigue
· Nausea & vomiting
· Constipation
· Pain at the injection sight
· Dizziness
You should stop using Wegovy and inform your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects
· Signs of an allergic reaction (Difficulty breathing, talking, or swelling of the face and tongue)
· Wheezing and struggling to breathe
· Pancreatitis – signs of severe, persistent abdominal pain alongside nausea and vomiting
How do I take Wegovy injections?
Wegovy comes as an injectable pen. The Wegovy pen is injected once daily subcutaneously. The usual injection sites will be the upper arm, upper thigh, or abdomen.
You will increase the strength gradually of Wegovy in 5 steps, which are:
- 0.25 mg
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 1.7 mg
- 2.4 mg
You'll start with a minimum dosage of 0.2 mg per week for one month. Then, your dosage will increase each month until you reach the 2.4 mg injection.
It's essential to monitor patients when increasing the dosage and you should always discuss increasing your weekly injection strength with healthcare professionals.
Our specialists at Pharmacy7days can offer advice and discuss whether you can increase the dosage or if you should wait.
You will need to store your Wegovy pre-filled pen in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C) before your first use. Once you start using the pen, you can keep it for 1 month either at room temperature (2 to 30°C) or in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze.
You should maintain a strict diet regime and regular exercise to ensure the full benefits of the treatment.
Who can use Wegovy?
Wegovy is licensed for patients with a BMI over 30 or patients who have a BMI over 27 and suffer from a medical condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
Can I use Wegovy alongside other weight loss treatments?
It is not recommended to take any other weight loss treatments but you should maintain a strict diet regime and regular exercise. This will ensure the best results when taking Wegovy. It is also recommended to a multivitamin at bedtime to ensure replace the vitamins not being absorbed by the body.
Can I use Wegovy if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant, it is recommended not to take Wegovy
How long will it take Wegovy to work?
This can vary from patient to patient but results can be seen after a few months. If weight loss of 5% is not achieved within 12 weeks there are a variety of treatments that can be trialled and you should consult your doctor
How long should I use Wegovy for?
Wegovy should be used for as long as it is prescribed by your doctor. If there are no improvements after 12 weeks (3 months) then your doctor should be consulted to discuss an alternative. If a weight loss of 5% is not achieved then it should be stopped in 3 months
Can I buy Wegovy over the counter?
Wegovy can only be obtained with a prescription, which means it can’t be bought over the counter at your local pharmacy. You can get it online at Pharmacy7days. You will need to complete an online medical prescriber to ensure it is appropriate for you.
Will Pharmacy7days provide a sharps bin if I order Wegovy?
Yes, we will provide you with a 1-litre sharps bin if you decide to choose this treatment
Before taking any medicines such as this Orlistat treatment, regardless of whether they are over-the-counter or prescription-only, it is essential always to read the patient information leaflet.
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.13800.pdf

