Wegovy (Semaglutide) is a prescription medication used for chronic weight management in adults who are overweight and obese and have other health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Obesity and overweight are chronic medical conditions characterized by excessive body fat that can impair health. They are associated with a significantly increased risk of numerous health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, certain types of cancer, joint problems, and sleep apnea. The active ingredient in Wegovy is Semaglutide. Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It works by mimicking the action of the natural incretin hormone GLP-1, which plays a role in regulating appetite, delaying the rate at which food leaves the stomach, and stimulating insulin secretion only when the blood glucose levels are high.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Wegovy from Canada, manufactured by Novo Nordisk (local pick up only), in strengths of 0.25 mg/dose, 0.5 mg/dose, 1 mg/dose, 1.7 mg/dose, and 2.4 mg/dose, in a multi-use pre-filled pen. The generic Semaglutide is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Wegovy. The most common side effects of Wegovy may include the following:
• Bloating;
• Diarrhea;
• Fatigue;
• Headache;
• Indigestion;
• Nausea
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Gallbladder problems;
• Increased heart rate;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Signs of pancreatitis, such as severe, persistent abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, with or without vomiting
These are not all of Wegovy's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Wegovy if you are allergic to Semaglutide or any ingredient in Wegovy. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have a history of depression or suicidal thoughts;
• Have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC);
• Have a history of pancreatitis;
• Have a history of severe gastrointestinal disease;
• Have diabetic retinopathy;
• Have gallbladder problems;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Wegovy and other medications, such as insulin, sulfonylureas, and warfarin. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. The safety and effectiveness of Wegovy in pregnancy have not been established. This medication should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Due to the long half-life of the medicine, it is recommended to discontinue Wegovy 2 months before a planned pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Semaglutide is excreted in breast milk or if it may harm a nursing infant. Discuss the benefits and risks of using Wegovy when breastfeeding with your doctor.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Wegovy is a pre-filled pen that should be administered subcutaneously (under the skin). Your doctor will show you how to administer this medicine. Use Wegovy once a week, at any time of the day. You can use this medication with or without food. Inject it into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate the injection sites with each dose. Do not inject into the same spot each time. Your dose will be gradually increased over several weeks to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. This medicine can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, which may lead to dehydration. Drink enough water to reduce your risk of dehydration. Store this drug in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F). Do not freeze. Once removed from the fridge, the pen can be stored at room temperature (up to 30°C or 86°F) for up to 28 days. Keep out of the reach of children.