Are Ozempic and Wegovy effective for weight loss? The short answer is yes. Both are proprietary names for generic semaglutide, a diabetes medication that was found to suppress appetite and lead to weight loss. Wegovy is approved by the FDA specifically for weight loss in individuals who do not have diabetes.
In 2021 the New England Journal of Medicine reported a study of 1961 obese, non-diabetic adults. They were randomized to receive semaglutide or placebo. The semaglutide group lost an average of about 15% of body weight, compared to the placebo group, which on average lost only about 2%.
Is Ozempic approved for weight loss as well?
Ozempic and Wegovy contain exactly the same medication, and are both produced by the same company. However, currently only Wegovy has FDA approval. However, due to shortage of Wegovy and a higher price, most providers prescribe Ozempic instead of Wegovy for weight loss.
Indications
Wegovy is indicated for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a medical condition such as heart disease. To find out what your BMI is, use this BMI calculator and type in your height and weight.
How this Medication is Taken
Semaglutide is usually injected subcutaneously (under the skin) once a week. Injection sites are the abdomen, upper thigh, and upper arm (if injected by another individual). The starting dose is 0.25mg per week, which is increased over a period of five months, to the full 2.4mg per week.
Is Wegovy Truly a Weight Loss Miracle?
This medication has received a great deal of hype lately, becoming popular in Hollywood. Sadly, there are no true weight loss miracles available. Wegovy is part of a weight loss plan that includes caloric restriction, a healthful diet plan, and physical activity. Any medication that is marketed as a miracle, should be taken with a grain of salt.
How to Obtain Wegovy
Wegovy is a prescription medication which can be purchased with the approval of a licensed physician or other prescriber. QuickMD can prescribe Wegovy or Ozempic online along with a program of diet and physical activity.