Medications like Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Saxenda®, and Rybelsus® have rapidly grown in popularity as effective tools for weight loss. You might be wondering if the risks are worth the rewards.
While they were originally developed for diabetes management, certain forms such as Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide) are FDA-approved specifically for weight loss.
This blog focuses on Wegovy, currently one of the most effective GLP-1 medications available.
What Is Wegovy (Semaglutide)?
Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a type of medication that mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone helps regulate appetite, slow digestion, and stimulate insulin release after eating.
By activating GLP-1 receptors, Wegovy helps people feel fuller faster, reduce cravings, and eat less, leading to significant weight loss for many patients.
How Do You Take Wegovy?
Wegovy is administered as a once-weekly injection using a very small needle.
Most patients report little to no discomfort during the injection process.
Who Qualifies for Wegovy?
You may be eligible for Wegovy if you have:
- A BMI of 30 or higher, OR
- A BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or prediabetes)
Your primary care provider can help determine whether Wegovy is appropriate and safe for your health profile.
Possible Side Effects of Wegovy
Like all medications, Wegovy has potential risks. The most common side effect is an increased heart rate. More serious but less common risks include:
- Acute pancreatitis
- Gallbladder disease
- Diabetic retinopathy complications
- Severe allergic reactions
- Acute kidney injury
Your provider will monitor you closely, especially during dose increases.
Is Wegovy Well Tolerated?
In sum, most patients tolerate Wegovy well. Some may experience digestive symptoms—especially early in treatment—including:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
Even so, these symptoms often lessen as your body adjusts to the medication.
Does Wegovy Really Work for Weight Loss?
Yes. Wegovy has shown significant and sustained weight loss results in clinical studies and in our own patient population.
In truth, our team has seen impressive success—some of our staff members have used Wegovy and Saxenda themselves.
If you’re considering medical weight loss, our office can help you understand what results to expect and how to combine medication with nutrition and lifestyle support.
How Much Does Wegovy Cost?
Generally, Wegovy can be expensive without insurance coverage—often up to $1,300 per month.
Coverage varies widely, so our office can help verify whether your insurance plan includes Wegovy or Saxenda.
Do You Gain Weight Back After Stopping Wegovy?
Weight regain is common after stopping GLP-1 medications. Studies show around 60% of people regain weight after discontinuation. This makes long-term success much more likely when Wegovy is paired with:
- Healthy eating habits
- Regular physical activity
- Ongoing lifestyle support
Is Wegovy Worth It?
So, Wegovy can be a powerful tool for people struggling with obesity or weight-related health concerns. While it comes with possible side effects, many patients experience meaningful, life-changing results when used under proper medical supervision.
If you’re curious about whether Wegovy is right for you, our team is here to help you explore your options safely.
Ready to chat with Susarla Primary Care team about weight loss options? Call us at 847-741-0026 or fill out our contact form with any questions that you have.