What is Wegovy used for?

The FDA has approved Wegovy for three main purposes:

Weight loss and long-term weight management

Wegovy is approved for:

• Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity)
• Adults with a BMI of 27+ who have at least one weight-related condition (high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol)
• Children ages 12 and older with obesity (injection only)

Cardiovascular risk reduction

In November 2023, the FDA expanded Wegovy’s approval to include reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in adults with established heart disease who are overweight or obese.

MASH (liver disease)

In 2024, Wegovy received approval for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with moderate-to-advanced liver scarring in adults.

How does Wegovy work?

Wegovy belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone your body naturally produces after eating.

Reduces appetite: Wegovy acts on areas of your brain that control hunger and fullness. Many people describe feeling satisfied with smaller portions and experiencing fewer food cravings.

Slows stomach emptying: The medication delays how quickly food leaves your stomach, helping you feel full longer after meals.

Quiets “food noise”: Many users report that constant thoughts about food quiet down—a phenomenon often called silencing “food noise.”

Regulates blood sugar: Wegovy helps your pancreas release insulin when blood sugar rises, which can benefit people with or at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Drug facts at a glance

Wegovy dosing schedules

For detailed dosing information, see our complete Wegovy dosing guide.

Wegovy uses gradual dose escalation to minimize side effects. Your doctor will increase your dose every 4 weeks until you reach the maintenance dose.

Injection dosing schedule

For step-by-step injection instructions, see our guide to taking Wegovy.

Some patients may qualify for Wegovy HD, which offers a 7.2 mg weekly dose for those who need additional support after tolerating 2.4 mg for at least 4 weeks.

Oral tablet dosing schedule

Common side effects

For more details, see our complete guide to semaglutide side effects.

Most Wegovy side effects are gastrointestinal and tend to improve as your body adjusts.

Most common (from clinical trials)

Less common side effects

• Bloating and gas
• Acid reflux
• Dizziness
• Injection site reactions
• Hair loss

Tips for managing side effects:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid fatty, fried, or spicy foods
• Stay hydrated
• Eat slowly and stop when satisfied

About 6-8% of people in clinical trials stopped taking Wegovy due to side effects.

Serious warnings and risks

Other serious risks

Pancreatitis: Stop taking Wegovy and call your doctor if you experience severe stomach pain that radiates to your back, with or without vomiting.

Gallbladder problems: Rapid weight loss increases gallstone risk. Watch for severe upper abdominal pain, fever, or yellowing of skin/eyes.

Kidney problems: Dehydration from nausea/vomiting can lead to kidney damage. Stay well hydrated.

Low blood sugar: If taking Wegovy with insulin or diabetes medications, monitor for hypoglycemia.

Who should NOT take Wegovy?

Do not take Wegovy if you:

• Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
• Have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• Are allergic to semaglutide or any Wegovy ingredients
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (stop 2+ months before conceiving)
• Are breastfeeding

Use with caution if you have: history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney problems, diabetic retinopathy, or depression.

Wegovy vs Ozempic

For a detailed comparison, see our full Ozempic vs Wegovy guide.

Both contain semaglutide but are approved for different purposes:

How much does Wegovy cost?

For a full breakdown, see our Wegovy cost guide.

List prices (without insurance)

• Injection: $1,300-$1,700 per month
• Oral tablets: $1,000-$1,500 per month

Ways to reduce costs

Novo Nordisk savings program: Eligible patients with commercial insurance may pay $0-$25 per month.

Patient assistance: Programs available for uninsured patients meeting income requirements.

Compounded semaglutide: $200-$500/month from specialty pharmacies (not FDA-approved; quality varies).

Note: Medicare Part D does not currently cover Wegovy for weight loss only. See our GLP-1 provider reviews for current pricing from telehealth companies.

Clinical trial results

STEP 1 trial (injectable Wegovy)

• Participants: 1,961 adults
• Duration: 68 weeks
• Average weight loss: 14.9% (vs 2.4% placebo)
• Lost ≥10%: 69% of patients
• Lost ≥20%: 32% of patients

OASIS 1 trial (oral semaglutide 50mg)

• Average weight loss: 15.1%
• Lost ≥10%: 69%
• Lost ≥20%: 34%

SELECT trial (heart outcomes)

• Participants: 17,604 adults with heart disease
• Finding: 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events

Frequently asked questions

The bottom line

Wegovy is one of the most effective weight loss medications available, with clinical trials showing average weight loss of 15% or more. It works by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and helping you feel satisfied with less food.

The medication requires a prescription and works best as part of a complete approach that includes healthy eating and regular physical activity. Side effects are common but usually manageable, and the gradual dose escalation helps your body adjust.

If you’re considering Wegovy, talk to your doctor about whether it’s right for you based on your health history, weight loss goals, and insurance coverage.