Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Faq

How much weight can you lose on Wegovy?

When used alongside a balanced diet and exercise, studies have shown that:

• Over 85% of people achieved weight loss of 5% or more
• 66% achieved weight loss of 10% or more
• 50% achieved weight loss of 15% or more 

Is Wegovy available in the UK?

Wegovy was approved for weight loss by the UK Medicines and Health products Regulations Agency (MHRA) in September 2021. In June 2023 the Department of Health announced a two-year pilot to tackle obesity. Following which, on the 4th of September 2023, Novo Nordisk announced that Wegovy will be available in the UK via the NHS weight management service or a registered private healthcare provider. 

How does Wegovy help you lose weight?

Wegovy contains the active ingredient Semaglutide, which mimics a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1. When you eat, levels of GLP-1 rise, signaling to your brain that you're full. This hormone also slows down the digestion process and stabilises your blood sugar.

Is Wegovy suitable for me?

Wegovy is suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or a BMI over 27 with a weight-related condition like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

Is Wegovy safe?

Yes, Wegovy is safe for most people if a doctor has prescribed it. Approved by the Medicine and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), it’s intended for those with a BMI of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater with weight-related conditions. Make sure to get Wegovy from a registered pharmacy.

How long does Wegovy take to work?

If you’re using Wegovy for the first time, you might notice changes in your appetite and some weight loss within the first few weeks. Studies show that most people can lose about 5% of their body weight within a month, but the full effects can take several months as the medication works gradually.

How to get a private prescription for Wegovy uk?

You can get a private prescription for Wegovy from any licensed pharmacy or weight loss clinic in the UK like Click Pharmacy, by completing a medical assessment.

How much does Wegovy cost?

The price of Wegovy at Click Pharmacy starts at £159.99 for a month's supply, going up to £255.99 for the highest strength of pen (2.4mg)

Can I get Wegovy on the NHS?

Yes, if certain conditions apply, Wegovy injections can be prescribed on the NHS. 

Can I get Wegovy over the counter?

No, you cannot buy Wegovy over the counter. It is a prescription-only medication, so you’ll need to consult a doctor to ensure it's safe and appropriate for you.

Is Ozempic and Wegovy the same?

Yes, Wegovy contains semaglutide, which is the same active ingredient in Ozempic. Made by the same manufacturer, the only difference is Ozempic is licensed for diabetes, while Wegovy is licensed for weight loss.

Can I switch from Ozempic to Wegovy for weight loss?

Yes, you can easily switch from Ozempic to Wegovy by following the guidance of a healthcare provider. After reviewing your medical assessment, our licensed pharmacist will guide on how to switch from Ozempic to Wegovy.

Can I switch from Saxenda to Wegovy?

If you are taking Saxenda, you can easily switch to Wegovy weight loss pen. You should start by taking the first dose of Wegovy pen the day after you stop Saxenda.

What is the difference between Wegovy and Mounjaro?

Wegovy and Mounjaro both are used for weight loss and both contain a GLP-1 receptor agonist. However, Wegovy contains semaglutide while Mounjaro contains tirzepatide as the active ingredient. For more information on the difference between Wegovy and Mounjaro read here. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking Wegovy?

Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking Wegovy, as there are no known interactions. However, both Wegovy and alcohol can lower blood sugar, which may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. It's a good idea to monitor how your body reacts, especially when you first start treatment. Drinking alcohol can also increase the likelihood of side effects like nausea, so it's wise to limit alcohol intake, especially when adjusting doses.

Can I take Wegovy whilst pregnant or breastfeeding?

No, you should not take Wegovy during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding. Using Wegovy can cause harm to the fetal. Stop using Wegovy at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy.

What dose of Wegovy should I take?

The usual starting dose of Wegovy is 0.25 mg once a week. After four weeks, your dose is gradually increased every month until you reach the maintenance dose, which is typically 2.4 mg per week. We will guide you on the specific dosages based on your progress and how well you tolerate the dose. 

Where is the best place to inject Wegovy?

Wegovy should be injected into areas with sufficient fatty tissue to ensure effective absorption and minimize discomfort. The best injection sites are the upper arm, upper thigh and stomach. Keep on rotating the injection sites after every use. Do not inject in the same area twice simultaneously.

What if I miss a dose of Wegovy?

If a dose is missed, it should be administered within 5 days after the missed dose. If two days remain until your next dose, then do not take the missed dose. Take the next dose on the regular scheduled day and continue the once weekly dosing schedule thereafter.

How should I store Wegovy injection?

You should store Wegovy in a fridge (between 2°C and 8°C) before first use. Once you start using the pen, you can keep it for 6 weeks at room temperature (below 30°C) or in a fridge (between 2°C and 8°C). Do not freeze Wegovy.

How long does a Wegovy pen last? 

A Wegovy pen contains 4 doses. Since the recommended dose is once a week, each pen will last for 4 weeks.

What should I expect the in first week of using Wegovy?

In the first week of using Wegovy, you may experience some side effects like mild nausea, fatigue, or gastrointestinal discomfort as your body adjusts to the medication. These effects are usually temporary. Some people may notice changes in appetite or initial weight loss, but significant results generally take more time.

What are the results of Wegovy in the first month?

In the first month of taking Wegovy, you may experience a reduced appetite and some weight loss, typically around 3-5% of your starting weight. However, results can vary depending on factors like diet and exercise, and some people might not lose weight in the first month at all. Side effects such as nausea can occur as your body adjusts to the treatment. 

How long does nausea last when using Wegovy?

Nausea is a common side effect of Wegovy, especially when you first start taking it or when your dose is increased. For most people, nausea usually improves after about 2 weeks as your body adjusts to the treatment.

For how long can I take Wegovy?

You can take Wegovy for around 6 months before being reassessed. After 6 months if you’ve lost 5% of your initial body weight, you can continue using it for up to two years, under continued clinical guidance.

What should I do if I can’t tolerate my new dose?

If you experience ongoing symptoms like nausea, vomiting or diarrhea with your current Wegovy dosage, speak to our pharmacist for advice. We may recommended continuing or lowering your dose to improve your tolerance. It’s important not to increase your dose until your body is ready. Contact us immediately if side effects persist.

How to dispose of needles?

Store used needles in a sharp waste bin until it can be safely disposed of. Once full, the sharps bin can be collected for disposal by your local council. 

Will Click Pharmacy check in with my progress?

Yes, we will call you within 2 weeks of starting your treatment and every month thereafter. You are also encouraged to call us when required to discuss any concerns you may have during the course of the treatment. 

Does Wegovy expire?

Wegovy injection pens come with an expiration date, which is on the back of the pen. The expiration date is usually 2 years from the manufactured date. Using expired Wegovy is not advised as it may not be as effective and safe.

Can I travel abroad with my Wegovy pen?

Yes, you can travel abroad with your Wegovy pen, but you should take certain precautions.

• Carry a prescription with your name.
• Use a travel cooler to keep your medication cold.
• Keep your Wegovy pen in your hand luggage, don’t put it in your checked luggage.

We can also provide you with a letter outlining your need for the medication. 

Can I take Wegovy and Orlistat together?

It is not recommended to take Wegovy and Orlistat together, even though both don't interact with each other. However, they work in different ways and therefore taking both together could increase the risk of side effects. 

Who makes Wegovy? 

Wegovy is manufactured by Novo Nordisk Inc who also manufacture Saxenda.