Wegovy
Also known as: Semaglutide for weight loss, High-dose semaglutide
Wegovy is the brand name for high-dose semaglutide (2.4 mg weekly), FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related comorbidities. It represents the same molecule as Ozempic but at a higher dose and different indication.
Last updated: January 28, 2026
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide when prescribed for chronic weight management. It was FDA-approved in June 2021 and represents the first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for obesity treatment since liraglutide (Saxenda) in 2014.
Key facts:
- Generic name: Semaglutide
- Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk
- FDA approval: June 2021 (chronic weight management)
- Administration: Weekly subcutaneous injection
- Maintenance dose: 2.4 mg weekly (higher than Ozempic)
Approval Criteria
Wegovy is approved for adults who meet either criterion:
- BMI ≥30 kg/m² (obesity)
- BMI ≥27 kg/m² (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition:
- Hypertension
- Type 2 diabetes
- Dyslipidemia
Clinical Trial Evidence
Wegovy’s approval was based on the STEP (Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with obesity) clinical trial program:
| Trial | Population | Weight Loss Result |
|---|---|---|
| STEP 1 | Adults without T2D | 14.9% vs 2.4% placebo |
| STEP 2 | Adults with T2D | 9.6% vs 3.4% placebo |
| STEP 3 | With intensive behavioral therapy | 16.0% vs 5.7% placebo |
| STEP 4 | Withdrawal study | Regain after stopping |
| STEP 5 | 2-year data | 15.2% sustained |
How Wegovy Works
Like all GLP-1 receptor agonists, Wegovy works through multiple mechanisms:
- Central appetite suppression — Acts on hypothalamic hunger centers
- Delayed gastric emptying — Prolongs feelings of fullness
- Reduced food reward — Decreases cravings and food-seeking behavior
- Improved insulin sensitivity — Secondary metabolic benefits
Dosing Schedule
Wegovy uses a gradual dose escalation over 16-20 weeks:
| Weeks | Dose |
|---|---|
| 1-4 | 0.25 mg |
| 5-8 | 0.5 mg |
| 9-12 | 1.0 mg |
| 13-16 | 1.7 mg |
| 17+ | 2.4 mg (maintenance) |
Wegovy vs Zepbound
Both are approved for weight management:
| Aspect | Wegovy | Zepbound |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| Mechanism | GLP-1 agonist | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist |
| Weight loss (trials) | ~15% | ~21% |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk | Eli Lilly |
Safety Profile
Common side effects mirror those of other GLP-1 agonists:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
Black box warning: Thyroid C-cell tumor risk (rodent studies)
Cardiovascular Evidence
The SELECT trial (2023) demonstrated that semaglutide 2.4 mg reduced major adverse cardiovascular events by 20% in adults with overweight/obesity and established cardiovascular disease—without diabetes.
This entry is for educational purposes only. Wegovy is a prescription medication. Consult a healthcare provider for medical advice.
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Disclaimer: This glossary entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical questions.