Wegovy 0.25 mg/0.5 mL pre-filled pen-injector

Wegovy 0.25 mg/0.5 mL pre-filled pen-injector

 Wegovy® (semaglutide) is a prescription medication used for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension. It is used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, designed to help patients reduce their weight by promoting satiety and enhancing insulin secretion.

The 0.25 mg/0.5 mL pen-injector is the starting dose in the Wegovy titration schedule, aimed at helping the body gradually adjust to the medication, minimizing common side effects such as nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.

How It Works:
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, mimics the action of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar and appetite. By activating the GLP-1 receptor, Wegovy helps the body increase insulin production when blood sugar is high, decreases glucagon (a hormone that increases blood sugar), slows down stomach emptying, and enhances feelings of fullness. These effects help reduce overall food intake and contribute to weight loss.

Dosage and Administration:
The 0.25 mg dose is administered via subcutaneous injection once weekly. The pre-filled pen-injector is designed for ease of use and should be injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It’s important to rotate injection sites to prevent irritation. This dose is typically used for the first four weeks as part of a dose escalation plan, after which the dose is gradually increased to higher levels (0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and eventually 2.4 mg) based on the patient’s tolerance and treatment goals.

Storage Instructions:
Store Wegovy pens in a refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) until first use. Once in use, the pen can be stored at room temperature (up to 86°F or 30°C) for up to 28 days. Do not freeze the pen, and keep it out of direct heat or sunlight.

Important Safety Information:
Wegovy should not be used in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It is also not suitable for use in individuals with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Serious risks, although rare, include pancreatitis, kidney injury, and gallbladder problems. Patients should be monitored regularly for these potential complications.

Clinical Use:
The 0.25 mg starting dose is part of a gradual escalation to higher doses, with the ultimate goal of achieving the recommended maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. This slow increase helps to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and enhances the likelihood of sustained weight loss.