A new weight loss jab is coming to UK pharmacies that claims to melt pounds by blocking hunger - but does it really work?
The injectable medication known as Wegovy has been approved for use by UK health officials. Patients will be able to access the drug through pharmacies like Boots, Superdrug which will be offering it through a prescription basis.
A few famous users, including Jeremy Clarkson, billionaire businessman Elon Musk and American presenter Chelsea Handler, have openly admitted to using the drug to lose weight.
Last November, the Tesla founder tweeted that he dropped 30 pounds - over two stone. When a Twitter user asked how he achieved this, he replied: "Fasting + Ozempic/Wegovy plus no tasty food near me."
According to its official website, Wegovy is intended for those with weight-related issues, who are either obese or overweight. The 2.4mg jag mimics a hormone that sends signals to parts of the brain that regulate appetite.
So, what is Wegovy, how does it work? Here's what you should know about the weight loss drug, including its many side effects, according to Wegovy's official website.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is an injectable prescription medication for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) who also have weight-related medical problems, to help them lose weight and keep it off.
Using a different dosage of an ingredient called semaglutide, the new medication is similar to Ozempic, a diabetes drug sold in the US, which has recently exploded across the pond as the ultimate weight loss solution.
How does Wegovy work?
Wegovy works by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in regulating appetite and food intake. This can help you eat less, which can lead to weight loss.
How often does Wegovy need to be taken?
Those who are prescribed Wegovy must take it once a week through an injection, any time of day, with or without food.
Can I eat anything while on Wegovy?
No. For the best results, those who take Wegovy must do so in tandem with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
How much weight have people lost taking Wegovy?
A 68-week study conducted by the manufacturer claims that participants with an average starting weight of 232 pounds lost 15 per cent of their body weight while taking Wegovy- around 35 pounds or 2.5 stone.
In contrast, those who were given placebo medication lost an average of just six pounds (less than half a stone) in the same timeframe.
Are there side effects to taking Wegovy?
While it may be effective, Wegovy boasts a list of rather unpleasant side effects.
The most common may include:
- nausea
- diarrhoea
- vomiting
- constipation
- stomach pain
- headache
- tiredness (fatigue)
- upset stomach
- dizziness
- feeling bloated
- belching
- gas
- stomach flu
- heartburn
Can anyone take Wegovy?
While the product is intended for those with serious weight problems, there are certain groups who it may not be safe for at all.
These include:
- People on semaglutide medication - Wegovy contains semaglutide and should not be used with other semaglutide-containing products or other GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines.
- People on other prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal weight-loss products.
- People with a history of pancreatitis.
- Children under 18 years of age.
Of course, as it is dispensed on a prescription basis, your GP will know whether it is a suitable medication to take.
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