How Does Wegovy Work?

Mechanism of action: How does Wegovy work?

• GLP-1 receptor agonist: Wegovy's mechanism of action involves being a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that mimics a hormone involved in appetite regulation

• Appetite suppression: The semaglutide weight loss process targets areas of the brain that control appetite and food intake, leading to reduced hunger and increased feelings of fullness

• Delayed gastric emptying: How Wegovy works includes slowing stomach emptying, which contributes to feeling fuller for longer periods and reduces overall calorie intake

Weight loss effects of Wegovy

• Significant weight reduction: In clinical trials, the Wegovy mechanism of action resulted in users losing an average of 10% of their body weight after 4 years, compared to 0% in the placebo group

• Sustained weight loss: The semaglutide weight loss process typically plateaus after 65 weeks (about 1 year and 3 months) but is maintained for up to 4 years

• Varied results: Of those on the highest dose of Wegovy, 68% lost at least 5% of their body weight, while 23% lost 15% or more

Cardiovascular benefits of how Wegovy works

• Reduced cardiovascular risk: The Wegovy mechanism of action showed a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with preexisting cardiovascular disease

• Benefits beyond weight loss: Even patients who didn't experience the full semaglutide weight loss process still had a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events

Side effects and management of Wegovy

• Gastrointestinal issues: Common side effects of how Wegovy works include nausea (44%), diarrhea (30%), vomiting (24%), and constipation (24%)

• Gradual dose increase: To minimize side effects of the Wegovy mechanism of action, dosage is typically increased gradually over time

• Dietary adjustments: Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding trigger foods can help manage gastrointestinal side effects during the semaglutide weight loss process

FAQ

How does Wegovy work to promote weight loss?

Wegovy works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. This leads to reduced hunger, increased feelings of fullness, and slower stomach emptying, resulting in decreased calorie intake and significant weight loss over time.

What is the Wegovy mechanism of action?

The Wegovy mechanism of action involves being a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain and digestive system, suppressing appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing overall food consumption, which contributes to weight loss.

How long does it take to see results from the semaglutide weight loss process?

The semaglutide weight loss process typically shows significant results within the first year of treatment. Weight loss usually plateaus after about 65 weeks (1 year and 3 months), but the effects can be maintained for up to 4 years with continued use.

What are the potential side effects of Wegovy?

Common side effects of Wegovy include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. These side effects are often manageable and may decrease over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

Are there any cardiovascular benefits to how Wegovy works?

Yes, the Wegovy mechanism of action has shown cardiovascular benefits. Clinical trials demonstrated a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with preexisting cardiovascular disease, even in patients who didn't experience significant weight loss.