How to Get Wegovy: Everything You Need to Know

How Does Wegovy Work?

Wegovy is commonly used as an FDA-approved medication to treat disorders such as:

• Chronic obesity
• Overweight conditions
• A semaglutide injection known as Ozempic is available to treat diabetes.

Although Wegovy is approved for specific conditions, some research suggests interest in its potential for weight management in different situations, such as weight loss in individuals without obesity or with other medical conditions.⁴ However, more research is needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness. If considering Wegovy for unapproved purposes, talk to your doctor for personalized guidance on potential risks and benefits.¹

How Effective is Wegovy for Weight Loss?

Recent studies have shown that Wegovy can help achieve weight loss combined with lifestyle modifications like a reduced-calorie meal plan and increased physical activity.⁴ In clinical studies of over 2,000 obese adults, it was found that about 25% to 53% of the participants who used semaglutide lost 15% of their body weight, depending on the specific clinical study.⁵ Individuals who used Wegovy lost 9.6% to 16% of their body weight, depending on the specific clinical study.^{2, 3}

What Are the Requirements to Qualify for Wegovy?

A prescriber may consider incorporating Wegovy into their weight-loss treatment plan; however, insurance coverage might depend on meeting specific criteria. Doctors typically contemplate using Wegovy when other weight loss methods haven’t yielded the desired results.

Criteria for a Wegovy prescription include:⁶

• Adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher, indicating obesity, or a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as diabetes.
• Children ages 12 and older with a BMI that is the 95th percentile or greater for their age and sex.
• Documentation of previous attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise.
• Absence of contraindications, such as a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
• Commitment to ongoing monitoring and follow-up with the prescribing physician.
• Understanding of potential risks and benefits of Wegovy treatment.

Will Doctors Prescribe Wegovy for Weight Loss?

Doctors may prescribe Wegovy for weight loss, considering factors like the patient’s medical history, current health status, and response to other weight loss methods. Individual patient characteristics and preferences play a role in determining whether Wegovy is a suitable option.⁷

Who Shouldn’t Be Prescribed Wegovy

Because interactions and serious side effects from Wegovy are possible,  certain groups of people should avoid taking it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, individuals with a history of pancreatitis, and those with known hypersensitivity to semaglutide or its components should refrain from using Wegovy.⁶ Wegovy comes with a boxed warning about the increased risk of thyroid c-cell tumors.

You may experience serious side effects from taking Wegovy if you:

• Have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (risk of thyroid c-cell tumors).
• Have multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (risk of thyroid c-cell tumors)
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
• Are breastfeeding.
• Have a history of pancreatitis.

How to Get a Wegovy Prescription

If you’re considering Wegovy as a potential treatment option, it’s important to know that this medication requires a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider. A doctor will determine if Wegovy is the proper medication for you based on a thorough assessment of your medical history and current health status. Before prescribing Wegovy, your doctor will likely ask for specific information to ensure it’s appropriate for your needs.

When seeking information about a Wegovy prescription, follow these 7 steps:

1. Initiate a conversation: Start by scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider. You can express interest in exploring Wegovy as a treatment option during the appointment.
2. Provide comprehensive information: Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, current medications, allergies, and any underlying health conditions you may have. Be prepared to provide detailed information to help your doctor make an informed decision.
3. Discuss symptoms and goals: Describe your weight management goals and any symptoms you’re experiencing. Be open about your weight-loss struggles; this will help your doctor understand your situation better.
4. Explore treatment options: Your doctor will discuss various treatment options with you, including lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and medications like Wegovy. They will consider your needs and medical history to determine the most suitable approach.
5. Ask about Wegovy suitability: If your doctor believes that Wegovy could be appropriate for you, they will assess its compatibility with your health conditions and medications. They will consider factors such as your BMI (Body Mass Index) and obesity-related health issues.
6. Address concerns and questions: Take this opportunity to ask questions or voice concerns about Wegovy. Understand its potential benefits, risks, and side effects before deciding.
7. Follow-up appointments: If your doctor decides to prescribe Wegovy, they will likely schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, address any side effects, and adjust the treatment plan.

Who Can Prescribe Wegovy?

The authority to prescribe Wegovy is limited to qualified healthcare professionals due to regulations and laws governing prescription medications.

The following healthcare providers are authorized to prescribe Wegovy:

• Primary care provider: You can discuss Wegovy during a regular check-in appointment with your primary care doctor. If your doctor determines that Wegovy is suitable, they can provide you with a prescription or refer you to a specialist if necessary.
• Endocrinologist: Endocrinologists specializing in hormone-related conditions can also prescribe Wegovy. If you have underlying hormonal imbalances contributing to your weight issues, an endocrinologist might be involved in your treatment plan.
• Bariatric Specialist: Bariatric specialists, often experienced in managing weight-related conditions, are well-equipped to evaluate your candidacy for Wegovy. They can guide you through incorporating Wegovy into your overall weight management strategy.

Can I Buy Wegovy Online?

Yes. You can buy Wegovy online through trustworthy pharmacies that require a valid prescription. The process involves finding a licensed online pharmacy, creating an account, sharing your medical history, and potentially completing a medical questionnaire. A licensed healthcare professional will review your information to decide whether Wegovy is appropriate.

Upon approval, you’ll get a prescription and purchase Wegovy online, with the medication shipped to your address. This online option offers convenience, comfort for sensitive discussions, and time savings, but it’s crucial to use regulated pharmacies to ensure safety and authenticity.

How Much Does Wegovy Cost?

The cost of Wegovy, a prescription medication for weight management, can vary based on factors such as insurance coverage, dosage, and location. The current cash cost for a month’s supply of Wegovy is estimated to be $1,349.02.⁸ However, it’s important to note that the manufacturer of Wegovy, Novo Nordisk, offers several ways to help offset the cost.

They provide a savings card that eligible patients can use to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. Discounts and coupons for Wegovy might be available directly from the manufacturer or through specific pharmacies. These savings options can significantly alleviate the financial burden associated with Wegovy.

Does Insurance Cover Wegovy?

Whether insurance covers Wegovy depends on individual policies. Some insurance plans may include coverage for Wegovy, while others may not. Individuals should check with their insurance providers to determine the extent of coverage available to them.⁹ Patients might need to meet specific criteria or provide documentation from their healthcare provider to qualify for insurance coverage of Wegovy.

Is There an Over-the-Counter Version of Wegovy?

As of now, there is no over-the-counter version of Wegovy. It is available only as a prescription medication. The absence of a generic version also impacts the cost, as generic versions are typically more affordable than brand-name medications. With a generic alternative, individuals may have more options for reducing the cost of Wegovy beyond the manufacturer-provided savings card and potential discounts.

Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Wegovy

When considering a Wegovy prescription, it’s important to have a comprehensive understanding of the medication and its implications for your health.

Questions to ask your care team about getting a Wegovy prescription include:

• How often should I come in for checkups while taking Wegovy?
• What are the most common side effects I can expect when I start using Wegovy, and how can I manage them?
• How long do these side effects typically last, and will they subside over time?
• Are there any potential serious side effects of Wegovy that I should be aware of?
• What lifestyle changes, if any, should I make while taking Wegovy to enhance its effectiveness?
• Are there any specific diet or exercise recommendations to follow alongside the medication?
• What should I do if I miss a dose of Wegovy?
• How soon can I expect to see results in terms of weight loss?
• What alternatives to Wegovy are available, and how do they compare in terms of effectiveness and side effects?
• What is the recommended duration for taking Wegovy? Will I need to take it indefinitely?
• How will Wegovy interact with any other medications or supplements I take?
• What steps should I take if I experience severe discomfort or adverse reactions to the medication?
• What other peptides for weight loss can be effective?