Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription medication used primarily to help with weight loss and reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events. It is indicated for use in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity in the following situations:
- To reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (such as cardiovascular death, non-fatal heart attack, or non-fatal stroke) in adults with established cardiovascular disease who are either obese or overweight[1][3].
- For weight loss and long-term weight management in:
- Adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with obesity
- Adults with overweight who have at least one weight-related comorbidity (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol)[1][4].
Wegovy works as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite. This helps increase feelings of fullness, reduce hunger, and ultimately lower food intake. Most commonly, it is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection[4][6].
Recent studies show that, in addition to supporting weight loss, Wegovy significantly lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in people with heart disease and excess weight[2][3].
References
- [1] Weight Loss and Cardiovascular Risk Treatment | Wegovy
- [2] Wegovy: what you need to know about the weight-loss injection – BHF
- [3] FDA Approves First Treatment to Reduce Risk of Serious…
- [4] Wegovy (Semaglutide): Uses, Side Effects, Dosage & More – GoodRx
- [6] Wegovy: Use for Weight Loss, Side Effects, Cost, and More