Wegovy Injection
Wegovy(r) (Semaglutide)
Medical Weight Management at Lifestyle Physicians — Warrenton & Culpeper, VA
FDA-approved weight loss treatment
In 2021, the FDA approved Wegovy (semaglutide) injection for weight loss, and we are seeing excellent results with its use at Lifestyle Physicians. Wegovy and Ozempic share the same active ingredient — semaglutide — but are distinct products approved for different indications and at different doses. Ozempic is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is approved specifically for chronic weight management.
Semaglutide was developed in 2012 by a team of researchers at Novo Nordisk as a longer-acting alternative to liraglutide as a once-weekly diabetes therapy. It was given the brand name Ozempic. Clinical trials began on January 6, 2016 and were completed on May 19, 2017. It was FDA-approved in December 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, during which it was observed that patients were losing a significant amount of weight.
A subsequent trial was conducted in patients without type 2 diabetes to specifically measure weight loss outcomes. The results showed that patients on semaglutide lost an average of 20% of their body weight.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is an FDA-approved prescription medication for chronic weight management in adults with:
- A BMI of 30 kg/m2 or higher, or
- A BMI of 27 kg/m2 or higher with at least one weight-related condition (such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia).
It is used along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
How Wegovy works
Semaglutide mimics a natural hormone (GLP-1) that helps regulate appetite and food intake. By slowing gastric emptying and enhancing satiety, it can help reduce calorie intake over time.
Expected results
In clinical trials, participants who used semaglutide alongside diet and exercise achieved clinically significant weight loss compared with placebo. Individual outcomes vary based on adherence, lifestyle, and medical history.
Safety and side effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, especially at dose escalation. Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and possible thyroid C-cell tumors.
Wegovy should not be used in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Where and how to inject Wegovy
Wegovy is injected once weekly under the skin (subcutaneously) of the upper arm, upper thigh, or abdomen. There is no single preferred site — all three are appropriate. Rotating the injection site each week helps reduce local irritation, bruising, and the risk of lumps or reactions at the injection site. Consistent rotation also supports even absorption of the medication.
Cardiovascular benefit
In adults with cardiovascular disease who are overweight or obese, Wegovy is also approved to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death.
Your care plan
Frequently asked questions about Wegovy
What is Wegovy used for?
Wegovy is FDA-approved to help adults with obesity (BMI 30 or higher) or overweight (BMI 27 or higher) with at least one weight-related condition lose weight and maintain that weight loss long-term. It is also approved to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death in adults with cardiovascular disease who are overweight or obese.
How do I get started with Wegovy at Lifestyle Physicians?
Schedule a consultation at our Warrenton or Culpeper, VA location. Our experienced providers will review your medical history, determine whether Wegovy is appropriate for you, and create a personalized treatment and monitoring plan.
Where do I inject Wegovy?
Wegovy is injected once weekly under the skin of the upper arm, upper thigh, or abdomen. All three sites are equally appropriate. Rotating the injection site each week helps reduce local discomfort and the risk of reactions at the injection site.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects are nausea, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation -particularly during the early weeks of treatment and at dose escalation. These typically improve as your body adjusts. Your provider may recommend strategies to help manage them.
Who should not use Wegovy?
Wegovy is not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine whether Wegovy is appropriate for your specific health situation.
Note: Information on this page is educational and not a substitute for medical advice. Please review the official FDA Prescribing Information and discuss your treatment plan with your provider.
Book your medical weight loss consultation
Take the first step toward better health with a personalized treatment plan. Contact Lifestyle Physicians in Warrenton or Culpeper, VA.