Wegovy 1 mg/0.5 mL pre-filled pen-injector

Wegovy 1 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, hypertension, or high cholesterol. Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, designed to support weight loss by reducing appetite and enhancing insulin function, in addition to promoting better glycemic control.

The 1 mg/0.5 mL pre-filled pen-injector is a key part of the titration process and is typically used after the initial doses of 0.25 mg and 0.5 mg. It is an important step in increasing the dosage toward the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg, depending on patient tolerance.

How It Works:
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, mimics the body’s natural GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin secretion when needed, decreasing glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting satiety. By influencing these processes, Wegovy supports weight loss through reduced food intake while also improving blood glucose control.

Dosage and Administration:
Each pre-filled pen delivers 1 mg of semaglutide in 0.5 mL of solution for a subcutaneous injection once a week. The injection can be administered in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Patients should rotate injection sites to avoid irritation. The 1 mg dose is typically administered after 4 weeks of using the 0.5 mg dose. The dose escalation continues until the 2.4 mg maintenance dose is reached, based on individual response and treatment goals.

Storage Instructions:
Store Wegovy pens in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) before first use. After the first use, the pen can be kept at room temperature (up to 86°F or 30°C) for up to 28 days. Do not freeze the pen, and protect it from direct heat or sunlight.

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

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and reduced appetite. Although rare, serious side effects may include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and kidney issues. It is important for patients to be monitored regularly for these complications.

Clinical Use:
The 1 mg dose is part of the dose escalation protocol for patients beginning Wegovy treatment. The gradual increase in dose helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects and enhances tolerability. The goal is to reach the 2.4 mg maintenance dose, which is the highest approved dose for achieving long-term weight loss benefits.