You may have heard about the breakthrough drug Ozempic and how it has radically changed the landscape of weight loss. No longer is weight gain an inevitability, and no longer is the answer an infuriating formula of more movement out, fewer calories in.
Now, there is a solution that finally works. Ozempic and its sister drug, Wegovy, are making weight loss possible.
We're here to break down the mystery and give you all the fat-busting facts you've been hungry for: what Wagovey is, how it does what it does, and most importantly, how you can get it!
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a revolutionary weight management drug that has been approved by the FDA. Developed by Novo Nordisk, a global healthcare company based in Denmark, Wegovy is specifically designed for continuous weight management in adults who are either overweight or obese with at least one weight-related health issue.
Wegovy works by mimicking a hormone that affects the parts of the brain responsible for the regulation of appetite and the desire for food intake, helping users to feel less hungry and thereby aiding in weight loss. It's a significant development in the field of weight management solutions, offering a new option for those seeking medical assistance to manage their weight.
Where to get Wegovy for weight loss
The soaring popularity of weight loss and diabetes management drugs Wegovy and Ozempic has led to a temporary shortage, as reported by multiple sources. The increased demand for these semaglutide-based medications, driven by their effectiveness in managing weight and blood sugar levels, has outpaced the supply, causing a worldwide shortage. This surge in demand has particularly affected patients with diabetes who rely on these medications for their treatment. However, despite the current shortages, there are still ways to access these much-sought-after drugs. Telehealth services, like Third Avenue, can be a viable option.
These services have the potential to navigate the shortage by connecting patients with healthcare providers who can prescribe alternative treatments or provide updates on availability.
It's important to remember that any changes to medication should always be done under the supervisory guidance of a healthcare professional. In the midst of this shortage, it's crucial for patients and healthcare providers to communicate closely and explore all available options to ensure continued effective treatment.
Wegovy®️ on Third Avenue – Most effective & editor’s choice
Third Avenue, a leading telehealth service, provides a comprehensive and personalized approach to weight loss, making it an excellent resource for those seeking access to Wegovy™.
The platform tailors its therapies based on elements like the age, sex, medical history, and personal preferences of its patients, which significantly increases the efficacy of the treatment and encourages patient adherence to treatment.
Their treatment plans are backed by FDA-approved ingredients and medications, including Wegovy, with formulations developed by some of the industry's leading obesity and weight loss experts. This ensures that you're getting a scientifically-backed, safe, and effective approach to managing your weight.
In addition, Third Avenue offers the convenience of virtual appointments with board-certified weight loss experts, providing ongoing support and guidance around the clock. This means you can receive expert advice and tailored treatment plans from the comfort of your home.
And if you're not fully satisfied with their service, Third Avenue offers a money-back guarantee within 30 days, reinforcing their commitment to patient satisfaction and results.
With Third Avenue, getting access to Wegovy and personalized weight loss treatment has never been easier or more convenient.
How does Wegovy work?
Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, is a prescription medication that is being used for weight management in adults who are overweight or obese. It belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
GLP-1 is a hormone released in response to food intake. It has several effects that help to regulate blood sugar levels and body weight. For one, GLP-1 slows down the rate at which the stomach empties after eating, which helps to slow down the rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream. This leads to a slower and more gradual elevation in blood sugar levels following a meal. GLP-1 also promotes the release of insulin from the pancreas, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Furthermore, GLP-1 acts on the brain to increase feelings of fullness and satisfaction after eating.
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1 in the body. It binds to the same receptors as GLP-1 and triggers the same responses. However, unlike natural GLP-1, which is quickly broken down by the body, semaglutide is resistant to breakdown and therefore stays in the body for longer. This prolonged action allows semaglutide to have a longer-lasting effect on blood sugar control and weight loss.
In clinical trials, semaglutide has shown the ability to significantly reduce weight and improve glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. It does this by reducing hunger and calorie intake, slowing gastric emptying, and increasing feelings of fullness.
However, like all medications, Wegovy may have side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. It's vital to discuss the potential for side effects with your healthcare provider before undertaking treatment.
Is Wegovy the same thing as Ozempic?
Ozempic and Wegovy are two different brand names for the same active ingredient, semaglutide, a medication used for weight management and control of blood sugar levels.
However, there are significant differences in their indications, uses, and dosages. Ozempic is primarily prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It helps the regulation of blood sugar levels by slowing gastric emptying, promoting insulin release, and increasing feelings of fullness after meals.
On the other hand, Wegovy is specifically indicated for overweight and obesity management. While it contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic, it's available in higher doses. This increased dosage can lead to more significant weight loss effects compared to Ozempic.
Both medications are injectable and designed to be used alongside a lower-calorie diet and increased physical activity. However, the choice between the two often depends on the individual's primary health concern. If the main issue is type 2 diabetes with weight loss as an added benefit, Ozempic might be more appropriate. Conversely, if the primary goal is weight loss in an individual who is overweight or obese, Wegovy might be the better choice.
It's also important to note that while both medications have been shown to be effective, they can have side effects, which can include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Therefore, they should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
In conclusion, though Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient, their specific uses and dosages differ, making them suitable for different patient populations with varying health needs.
How much does Wegovy cost?
One significant consideration is the cost of these drugs, which can be quite high. Generally, insurance plans don't cover the cost of Wegovy for weight loss purposes. However, they often do provide coverage for individuals with diabetes. The popularity of Wegovy and Ozempic has also led to occasional shortages due to high demand.
The cost of Wegovy can vary greatly depending on health insurance coverage, coupons, and location. Wegovy can be as low as $1,308.25 per month with a savings coupon, which can offer up to a 20% discount off the retail price. However, some sources have reported that the cost of Wegovy can be over $1,000 per month.
It's worth noting that the cost of Wegovy is significantly higher in the US compared to other countries. For instance, Ozempic and Wegovy, both semaglutide-based medications, cost Americans up to 10 times more than what patients pay in other countries.
To get an accurate estimate of the cost, it's best to check with your insurance provider or use online tools provided by the manufacturer, such as NovoCare's Cost Navigator.
What should I know about taking Wegovy for weight loss?
Wegovy comes in pen form and is injected once per week. We strongly recommend following the manufacturer's guidance when it comes to taking your Wegovy injection.
Please carefully read the Instructions for Use accompanying Wegovy. Use Wegovy strictly as directed by your healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider will take you through the steps of how to use Wegovy before you administer it for the first time.
Wegovy is injected under the skin into your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It should not be administered intramuscularly (into a muscle) or intravenously (into a vein).
You can take Wegovy with or without food.
Rotate your injection site for every dose to avoid using the same spot each time.
Administer Wegovy once a week, on the same day of the week, at any time that suits you.
Begin with a weekly dose of 0.25 mg for the first month. In the second month, increase the dose to 0.5 mg per week. For the third month, raise the dose to 1 mg per week. By the fourth month, your weekly dose should be 1.7 mg. From the fifth month onwards, your healthcare provider might either keep your dose at 1.7 mg per week or increase it to 2.4 mg per week.
If you need to change your weekly dosage day, ensure that your last dose of Wegovy was administered at least two days prior.
If you miss a dose and your next scheduled dose is more than 48 hours away, take the missed dose as soon as you can. If your next scheduled dose is less than 48 hours away, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
If you miss doses of Wegovy for over two weeks, either take your next dose on a regular day or consult with your healthcare provider about restarting your treatment plan.
If you accidentally overdose on Wegovy, you may experience severe nausea, severe vomiting, and dangerously low blood sugar levels. If you exhibit any of those symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately or head to the nearest emergency room.
How do I take Wegovy?
The manufacturer provides a very nice system to help you administer and track your injections.
Ensure you have the correct medication and dosage.
This might seem like a given, but it's crucial not to overlook it. Your pen should be labeled Wegovy and contain a clear, colorless liquid.
Increasing your dosage as per your healthcare provider's guidelines is also key. Over several months, you will gradually increase from lower dosages to the highest recommended dose.
Verify that you're using the correct dose by checking the dosage amount indicated on the pen. A unique color distinguishes each dosage strength.
The colors on the pen match those on the "My Medicine" section of your WeGoTogether portal. Again, your doctor should take you through the steps to record your doses. This portal assists you in recording your dosage after administration. Refer to the Log Your Dose section below.
If there's any uncertainty about the dosage you should be administering, consult your healthcare provider. Once you've confirmed that you have the correct dosage, you're prepared to use the pen.
Administer the injection
Ensuring all the medication from your pen is delivered into your body is crucial. You might want to create a firm injection site by pressing your skin flat with two fingers. Position the pen perpendicular to your body, ensuring you can see the pen's window. When you press the pen hard against your skin, a clicking sound indicates the start of the injection.
Observe the yellow bar in the pen's window; it should start to move (if it doesn't, apply more pressure on the pen against your skin). A second click will be heard, signaling you're nearly done. Continue to hold the pen in place for a few seconds until the yellow bar ceases to move.
Once the bar has stopped moving, the injection process is complete. This usually takes around 10 seconds. The yellow bar might not entirely fill the window, but as long as it's no longer moving, you can gently remove the pen from your skin. Your task is complete.
Following the injection, dispose of the used pen in a designated sharps/needle disposal container.
Log your dose time
For accurate records and to avoid any future confusion, it's advisable to log each dose immediately after administration.
We suggest recording it in the WeGoTogether portal. This ensures your dosing history is securely stored and updated.
Besides using the web portal for dose tracking, you can also note it down in a personal diary or record it on your phone. Choose whichever method suits you best for logging your doses. Enter the upcoming week with confidence, knowing that you're maintaining your medication schedule correctly.
How long do I have to take Wegovy?
Weight loss medications like Wegovy and Ozempic are designed to help individuals reduce their weight by suppressing appetite, enhancing feelings of fullness, and slowing the absorption of nutrients. However, it's crucial to understand these are not one-time solutions but rather part of a long-term strategy for weight management.
When an individual successfully loses weight with the help of these drugs, it's often because the medication is continuously working to control appetite and regulate the body's metabolic processes. It's akin to how a person with high blood pressure might need to take medication daily to keep their blood pressure levels in check.
Once a person stops taking Wegovy or Ozempic, the physiological effects that were helping to suppress their appetite and slow nutrient absorption cease. This often leads to a return of previous eating habits and metabolic rates. As a result, many individuals experience a relatively swift regain of weight. This phenomenon, known as 'rebound weight gain,' is not uncommon when people discontinue the use of weight loss medications.
This is why it's highly probable that if you lose weight using these drugs, you may need to continue taking them indefinitely to maintain your new weight. Of course, this should always be under the supervision of a doctor or healthcare professional who can track any potential side effects and adjust treatment as necessary.
In addition to medication, maintaining weight loss typically requires ongoing lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity and a balanced diet. It's also essential to address any underlying psychological issues related to eating behaviors. Thus, a comprehensive approach that includes medication, lifestyle changes, and mental health support is often the most effective strategy for long-term weight management.
Is there a downside to taking Wegovy?
Both Wegovy and Ozempic are associated with certain side effects, most commonly gastrointestinal discomfort.
While these drugs can suppress a person's appetite, it's crucial to remember that to achieve weight loss, other dietary changes are necessary. These include reducing your intake of desserts, sugar-sweetened beverages, and fatty foods.
Exercise remains an integral part of maintaining overall body health and complementing the effects of these drugs.
Lastly, there have been some concerns raised about an unexpected side effect referred to as "Wegovy face." While many people on these weight loss drugs are pleased with the overall reduction in their weight, some have reported dissatisfaction with losing weight from their faces. This has led to complaints of looking older and gaunt due to the loss of facial fat.
Who should not take Wegovy?
According to Wegovy, this drug should not be used if:
You or a family member have previously been diagnosed with a type of thyroid cancer known as medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), or if you have a condition affecting your endocrine system known as MEN 2.
You have had a severe allergic reaction to semaglutide or any other components found in Wegovy.
Before starting treatment with Wegovy, it's important to be honest about your full medical history with your healthcare provider, particularly if you:
Have experienced issues with your pancreas or kidneys in the past or present.
Are a type 2 diabetic with a history of diabetic retinopathy.
Have had or currently have depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental health problems.
Are pregnant or intending to become pregnant. Wegovy could potentially harm an unborn baby. It is advised to discontinue the use of Wegovy two months prior to planning a pregnancy.
Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It remains uncertain whether Wegovy can be transferred into breast milk.
What are the side effects of Wegovy?
The most regularly reported side effects of Wegovy include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, upset stomach, dizziness, bloating, belching, gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and symptoms of a common cold.
Serious side effects
Wegovy has the potential to trigger a range of serious side effects, which include but are not limited to:
Thyroid tumors
Wegovy has the potential to induce severe side effects, one of them being potential thyroid tumors, which could include cancer.
It's crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you observe any swelling or lumps in your neck, experience difficulty swallowing, have voice changes like hoarseness, or suffer from shortness of breath, as these could be symptoms indicative of thyroid cancer.
In rodent studies, Wegovy and similar medications led to the development of thyroid tumors, encompassing thyroid cancer. However, it remains undetermined whether Wegovy can cause thyroid tumors or a specific form of thyroid cancer known as medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in humans.
Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas can occur as a result of taking Wegovy. If you experience persistent severe abdominal pain, with or without vomiting, it's crucial that you stop using Wegovy and contact your healthcare provider immediately. The pain may radiate from your abdomen to your back.
Gallbladder complications
Wegovy can lead to issues with the gallbladder, including the formation of gallstones, which might necessitate surgical intervention. If you start to experience symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or clay-colored stools, get in touch with your healthcare provider.
Hypoglycemia
For those patients with type 2 diabetes, particularly those also on medications like sulfonylureas or insulin, there's an increased risk of low blood sugar, which can be a serious and common side effect. Consult with your healthcare provider about recognizing and managing low blood sugar symptoms.
Regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels before starting and during your course of Wegovy is advisable. Typical symptoms of low blood sugar can include blurred vision, dizziness, anxiety, mood swings, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, confusion, shakiness, weakness, headache, rapid heartbeat, or jitteriness.
Kidney failure
Individuals with existing kidney issues may find their condition worsening due to dehydration caused by diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Drinking fluids to prevent dehydration is, therefore, essential.
Severe allergic reactions
If you notice the onset of a serious allergic reaction, such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe rash or itching, fainting, dizziness, or an unusually fast heartbeat, discontinue Wegovy use and seek immediate medical attention.
Vision changes
Patients with type 2 diabetes should alert their doctor if they notice any changes in their vision while on Wegovy.
Furthermore, a small percentage of those who take these drugs may experience retinopathy, a complication related to diabetes that affects the eyes. Therefore, along with regular consultations with your primary care provider or endocrinologist, it is recommended to have regular check-ups with your eye doctor.
Elevated heart rate
Wegovy can cause an increase in resting heart rate. If you experience sensations of racing or pounding heartbeats lasting for several minutes, inform your healthcare provider.
Depression or suicidal thoughts
Be vigilant for any mental changes, especially sudden shifts in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings. Should you notice any new or worsening mental changes that concern you, reach out to your healthcare provider without delay.
A brief overview of obesity
Obesity is now understood as a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. It's not merely a result of overeating or under-exercising, as previously thought.
In the past, those struggling with obesity were often told that their condition was a result of personal failure or lack of willpower. This perspective is not only harmful but also unproductive, as it typically does nothing to address the root causes of the disease. Today, scientists have identified several genes that appear to influence weight, indicating that genetics can play a significant role in a person's propensity to obesity.
Environmental factors, such as having access to affordable, healthy foods, safe places to exercise, and cultural norms around food and body size also play a significant role. A person living in an area with limited access to fresh produce, for example, may be more likely to become obese than someone who has easy access to a variety of nutritious options.
Behavioral factors, including diet and physical activity habits, are also crucial. However, these behaviors do not exist in a vacuum, as genetic and environmental factors heavily influence them.
The good news is that understanding obesity as a multifactorial disease opens up new avenues for treatment and prevention. Rather than blaming individuals for their weight, we can now focus on creating supportive environments, developing effective interventions, and promoting healthy behaviors.
This shift in perspective has the potential to make a significant difference in the fight against obesity. By recognizing the complexity of the disease, we can move towards a more compassionate, effective approach to treatment and prevention.
The bottom line
While Wegovy is an incredible drug and has made a lasting impact on those who struggle to lose weight, like any new drug, it should be treated with caution.
Consult with your doctor before trying any new medication, and be sure to be aware of any potential side effects or greater health risks associated with Wegovy.
Wegovy may not be for everyone, but now that you know more, you can make a properly informed decision if it is the right method for you and your journey through weight loss.
If you want to get Wegovy for weight loss, we recommend Third Avenue. They offer a seamless experience that delivers safe, high-quality products in a discreet manner. With easy access to medical professionals that have your best interests at heart, you can rest assured you’re in good hands by choosing Third Avenue for your weight loss journey.
Medical Disclaimer:
The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. You should always consult with your doctor or a licensed healthcare provider before taking any medication or making decisions regarding your health.
Prescription Medication:
Medications discussed herein are prescription medications, and it should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. You should not use prescription medications without a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
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Accuracy and References:
We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information in our content. However, medical knowledge and guidelines may evolve over time. The information provided here is based on credible sources and reputable medical references. Please consult the latest medical literature and consult with a healthcare professional for the most current information and guidance.
Individual Results May Vary:
Please be aware that individual experiences with medications like these may vary. The effectiveness and safety of Viagra depend on various factors, including an individual's health, medical history, and adherence to prescribed dosages. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations.
Wegovy:
Semaglutide is the base molecule found in the trademarked Wegovy, a product owned by Novo Nordisk. Medications sold on affiliate sites include products that are not genuine Wegovy, but are compounded using semaglutide in accordance with FDA guidelines. When Wegovy is referenced, it is referring to the genuine Wegovy product, and it is noted that this trademark belongs to Novo Nordisk.
