Wegovy for Weight Loss. What to Expect After a Month?

Are you struggling to shed those extra pounds with diet and exercise? You might be considering using Wegovy for weight loss to help you achieve your goals.  

Wegovy is a relatively new player in weight management and has been gaining attention for its effectiveness in aiding significant weight loss. In this blog, you will learn about the impact of Wegovy weight loss, focusing specifically on the changes and results one can expect after one month of treatment.

Understanding Wegovy

Wegovy, known as Semaglutide, is a weekly weight loss injection manufactured by Novo Nordisk and approved by MHRA in September 2023. It mimics a hormone that targets the brain areas responsible for appetite regulation. Consequently, it reduces hunger and increases fullness, culminating in lower calorie consumption.

Wegovy Prescription and Recommended Usage

Endorsed by various health authorities, Wegovy is a prescription-only medicine and prescribed for individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or above and 27 or above with at least one weight-related condition, such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension.

Research & The Impact of Wegovy on Weight Loss

According to clinical trials, Wegovy can help you lose up to 16% of your body weight after 68 weeks.

During the initial month, your healthcare provider will prescribe a minimum Wegovy dosage of 0.25 mg. As Wegovy is administered via injection, you must know that you might not witness results immediately apparent. 

There have been significant improvements in treating monogenic obesities in the last five years. Scientists have developed specific treatments for these conditions and a new set of anti-obesity medications. These new weight loss medications have proven to be highly effective, leading to weight loss of over 10% of a person’s total body weight in more than two-thirds of the participants in clinical trials. 

How much Weight Will I Lose in a month with a Wegovy?

During the first month of Wegovy treatment, patients generally start on a lower dose of 0.25mg, gradually increasing to minimise side effects and improve tolerability. This period is crucial for understanding how the body reacts to the medication.

As Wegovy is administered through an injection, you must understand that the results may not be immediately apparent. This weight loss medication works gradually, and its effectiveness can vary from person to person. Therefore, you need to be patient while waiting for its visible effects.

Week-by-Week Wegovy Progress

Week 1-2: Initial adjustments with possible mild side effects like nausea or constipation. You might lose minor weight i.e., up to 3 pounds. 

Week 3-4: At this stage, your hunger level starts decreasing, and you don’t have a lot of “food noise.” In the first 4 weeks, you will be on the same dose prescribed by your healthcare professional. A noticeable difference in weight can be expected, typically ranging from a 2% to 4% reduction in your body weight.

How to Manage the Side Effects of Wegovy?

For short-term and mild symptoms, consider the following tips:

• Eat in small portions 
• Eat bland and low-fat foods
• Eat mindfully and stop when feeling full
• increase your fibre and water intake
• Stroll after meal some of the gastrointestinal side effects

Pro tip: The side effects can be reduced by injecting Wegovy on a full stomach – after your meal. 

Nutritional Considerations While on Wegovy

Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet enhances the effectiveness of Wegovy. Focus on nutrient-rich foods that provide energy and essential nutrients without excessive calories.

Recommended Dietary Changes

Increase Fiber Intake: Helps with satiety and digestion.

Lean Proteins: Aids in muscle maintenance during weight loss.

Healthy Fats: Essential for overall health, but should be consumed in moderation.

Physical Activity: An integral part of the Journey

Tailoring Exercise to Individual Needs

Combining Wegovy with regular exercise significantly boosts weight loss results. The type of exercise should be tailored to the individual’s fitness level and preferences to ensure sustainability.

Effective Exercise Strategies

Aerobic Exercises: Such as walking, cycling, or swimming.

Strength Training: Helps in preserving muscle mass during weight loss.

Psychological Aspects of Weight Loss with Wegovy

Mental Health and Weight Management

Weight loss journeys can be emotionally challenging. Wegovy users may experience changes in their body image and self-esteem as they lose weight.

Seeking support from healthcare providers, counselors, or support groups can be beneficial in navigating these changes.

Key Takeaways

Wegovy is a medication designed for prolonged use, initially prescribed at a lower dosage. This approach helps to minimise the frequency and intensity of any side effects. Gradually, the dosage is increased to a more substantial maintenance level.

It usually takes 4-5 weeks for Wegovy to achieve a ‘steady state’ in the body. A steady state is when the drug’s levels in the body remain consistent rather than fluctuating. 

FAQs

Why am I not losing weight on Wegovy?

Weight loss on Wegovy (Semaglutide) can vary based on individual factors such as diet, exercise, metabolism, and adherence to the medication regimen. It’s also possible that the body may take some time to respond to the medication.

Does Wegovy need to be refrigerated?

Yes, Wegovy should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze it. Once in use, the pen can be kept at room temperature (not above 30°C/86°F) for up to 28 days. Always check the medication’s packaging for specific storage instructions.

How do you feel after the first shot of Wegovy?

After the first injection of Wegovy, you may feel some nausea for two days, but it’s manageable. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and constipation. These reactions are usually mild and often decrease over time.

When do you start feeling the side effects of Wegovy?

Side effects can occur soon after starting Wegovy, typically within the first few weeks. The likelihood and intensity of side effects can vary from person to person and dosage. It’s essential to report any side effects to a healthcare provider, as they might adjust the dosage or provide guidance to manage these symptoms.

How successful is the Wegovy for weight loss?

A recent study in The Lancet revealed that 2.4 mg of Wegovy has been quite effective for weight loss. Impressively, 87% of those treated with Wegovy shed over 10% of their body weight. About 10% of the patients experienced a more modest weight loss, ranging between 1% to 10%.