An Overview of Wegovy (Semaglutide)
In a world where shedding extra pounds can feel like an uphill battle, Wegovy steps in as a game-changer. So, what's Wegovy all about, and how can it help you slim down? Let's break it down in simpler terms.
Think of Wegovy as a particular shot designed to help you lose weight. Wegovy is made from a substance called semaglutide, which is also found in another medication called Ozempic.
Semaglutide is part of a family of medicines known as GLP-1 RAs (glucagon-like peptide receptor antagonists). GLP-1 is a protein that the gut naturally produces in response to food.
You take it just once a week, making you feel less hungry and fuller for longer after meals. Plus, it slows down how quickly your stomach empties, so you don't feel like snacking as much.
What to Expect from Wegovy (Semaglutide)
Some Common Side Effects of Wegovy (Semaglutide)
The most common one with Wegovy is feeling queasy, especially at the start. But don't worry; your doctor will likely start you off with a smaller dose to ease you into it. They suggest avoiding heavy, greasy foods to help keep your stomach happy. Other possible side effects include constipation or diarrhoea, but these usually go away independently after a while.
Expected Benefits of Wegovy (Semaglutide)
Wegovy can help you shed those extra pounds. Studies have shown that folks using Wegovy lost a pretty impressive amount of weight—around 15% to 20% of their body weight—over a year and a half. That's a big deal! Plus, it's not just about looking slimmer.
Losing weight with Wegovy can also help improve other health issues like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
Notes: Each has pros and cons, so your doctor can help you determine which suits you best.
How Do GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Work?
Now, Wegovy isn't the only weight-loss shot out there. You've got others like Saxenda and Ozempic, which work similarly. They're all part of a group of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists—a fancy term, right? Each has pros and cons, so your doctor can help you determine which one suits you best.
GLP-1 receptor agonists, like Liraglutide (Saxenda) and Semaglutide (Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy), work by
- Boosting Insulin: These medications help your body produce more insulin, a hormone that lowers blood sugar levels, especially after eating.
- Cutting Down Glucagon: They also reduce the production of another hormone called glucagon, which normally raises blood sugar levels when you're not eating. By keeping glucagon in check, GLP-1 receptor agonists help maintain steady blood sugar levels even when fasting.
- Slowing Digestion and Curbing Hunger: GLP-1 receptor agonists slow down how quickly your stomach empties after a meal. This makes you feel fuller for longer and helps you eat less overall. It also helps control your blood sugar levels by steadily releasing glucose from the food you eat.
- Taming Cravings: These medications also mess with the signals in your brain that make you hungry or crave certain foods. Tinkering with these signals can help you resist the urge to snack on unhealthy stuff.
