Wegovy
Semaglutide · Novo Nordisk
FDA Approved: June 4, 2021
Brand Price
$650-$1,050/month
Compounded
$199-$399/month
Insurance
Varies by plan (often requires PA)
Type
Weekly Injection
About Wegovy
Wegovy (semaglutide) is an FDA-approved weekly injection for chronic weight management. It works by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar, leading to significant weight loss in clinical trials.
Wegovy mimics GLP-1, a hormone that slows digestion, reduces appetite, and signals fullness to the brain. It also helps regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin production.
Effectiveness: In clinical trials, participants lost an average of 15% of body weight over 68 weeks when combined with diet and exercise. About 86% of participants lost at least 5% of body weight.
Dosage & Administration
Starting Dose
0.25 mg once weekly
Maintenance Dose
2.4 mg once weekly
Maximum Dose
2.4 mg once weekly
Frequency
Weekly injection
Side Effects
Common Side Effects (Common (≥10%))
- •Nausea (44%)
- •Diarrhea (30%)
- •Vomiting (24%)
- •Constipation (24%)
- •Abdominal pain (20%)
- •Headache (14%)
- •Fatigue (11%)
- •Dizziness (10%)
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these:
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder problems
- Kidney problems
- Severe allergic reactions
- Diabetic retinopathy complications
Who Should Not Take Wegovy
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Severe gastrointestinal disease
- Pregnancy
Current Shortage Status
Limited Supply
High demand exceeding supply capacity
Alternatives: Consider compounded semaglutide or other GLP-1 medications. Use our Alternatives Hub to compare options.
Pricing & Cost
Brand Name Price
$650-$1,050/month
Without insurance or savings card. Actual price varies by pharmacy and location.
Compounded Alternative
$199-$399/month
Compounded semaglutide from licensed pharmacies. Often HSA/FSA eligible.
With Insurance
$0-$350/month
Cost depends on your plan. Prior authorization may be required.
Insurance Coverage
Drug Interactions
Important: Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements.
- Insulin: May increase risk of hypoglycemia. Monitor blood sugar closely.
- Sulfonylureas: May increase risk of hypoglycemia. Dose reduction may be needed.
- Warfarin: Monitor INR more frequently.
- Oral contraceptives: May reduce effectiveness. Use additional contraception.
Important Warnings
- Do not use if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- Stop taking Wegovy and seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, especially if it radiates to your back.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or kidney problems.
- Pregnant women should not use Wegovy. Use effective contraception while taking this medication.
Storage & Administration
Storage Instructions
Store Wegovy pens in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F) before first use. After first use, store at room temperature (up to 86°F) or in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Discard after 56 days.
How to Administer
Inject Wegovy subcutaneously (under the skin) in your stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites. Use a new needle for each injection. The pen is single-use and should be discarded after use.
What to Monitor
Monitor for signs of pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain), gallbladder problems (pain in upper right abdomen), kidney problems (decreased urination), and allergic reactions. Regular check-ups with your doctor are recommended.
Alternatives to Wegovy
If Wegovy is not available, too expensive, or not covered by your insurance, consider these alternatives: