Is Wegovy prescribed for weight loss? - Hormone Harmony Clinic

Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription injectable medication that was originally approved by the FDA in 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, in June 2021, the FDA expanded the approval of Wegovy to include chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. So yes, Wegovy is now FDA-approved and prescribed specifically for weight loss and weight management. Some key points about Wegovy for weight loss:

• Wegovy is intended for adults with a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) and who have at least one weight-related health condition, or adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity)
• In clinical trials, Wegovy helped patients lose an average of 12.4% to 17.6% of their initial body weight over 68 weeks
• Wegovy mimics a hormone called GLP-1 that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake
• By mimicking GLP-1, Wegovy curbs appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss
• Wegovy is injected under the skin once weekly. The dose is escalated slowly over a 16-week period to improve gastrointestinal tolerance

Some common side effects of Wegovy include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain

However, through slow dose escalation, side effects can often be managed successfully.

When is Wegovy appropriate for weight loss?

Wegovy may be an appropriate weight loss option for patients who:

• Have struggled unsuccessfully to lose weight through diet, exercise, and/or other medications
• Have obesity (BMI 30 ) or are overweight (BMI 27 ) with obesity-related health conditions such as:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Sleep apnea
  • Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
• Are motivated and ready to adopt lifestyle changes to support weight loss
• Accept the potential side effects and method/frequency of administration (weekly self-injected)

Of course, treatment plans need to be individualized between patients and their healthcare providers. Other factors are considered when determining if Wegovy is appropriate, including complete medical history, any medications or supplements currently being taken, reproductive health, and personal weight loss goals.

Seeking prescription weight loss treatment

Speak to your doctor or visit a weight loss clinic specializing in medical weight management to determine if Wegovy may be right for you.

For instance, Hormone Harmony Clinic offers a full spectrum of cutting-edge nonsurgical weight loss solutions, including prescription medications like Wegovy. Their compassionate and experienced healthcare team conducts comprehensive evaluations to help create customized plans to fit each patient’s unique needs and health profile.

So in summary - yes, Wegovy is now FDA-approved and prescribed specifically for chronic weight management in adults struggling with obesity or being overweight. It can be an excellent treatment option alongside lifestyle changes for eligible patients. Speak to your doctor or clinics like Hormone Harmony Clinic to learn more!