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Expert Opinion: What is up with Wegovy?
The newest weight loss medication, Wegovy (Semaglutide) came on the market in June 2021 and demand for the medication has been high. This medication, a once weekly injection, had excellent results in clinical trials showing weight loss of up to 15% body weight. It is recommended for adults with a BMI of > 30 or a BMI of > 27 plus weight related health concerns. It should be noted that Wegovy is recommended to be utilized long term for ongoing weight management.
The most common side effect of Wegovy is nausea (often due to feeling more full when starting this medication), but there are other side effects as well including:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Stomach (abdomen) pain
- Headache
- Tiredness (fatigue)
- Upset stomach
- Dizziness
- Feeling bloated
- Belching
- Gas
- Stomach flu
- Heartburn
If you are started on Wegovy and experience nausea, it is recommended that you contact your health care provider for guidance. In addition, you can try eating bland, low fat foods, avoid lying down after you eat, eat more slowly, and increase your water intake (including foods with water like soup and gelatin) if feeling dehydrated.
What has been your experience with weight loss medications?
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I was using Wegovy for the last 6 months. It works very well but had to learn how to navigate the side effects. Was able to use a coupon and that has expired, the price is too high. Would love to continue taking it but I can’t afford the price.
I have heard a number of accounts related to both your experiences - side effects and cost. I'm sure it's frustrating to deal with when you found the medication to be helpful. Does the manufacturer provide coupons on their website at all?
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1 ReactionIt’s maybe a saving of 200 or 300. The nova care call center is no help. Do you have any suggestions?
I have reached out to the author of this article for further suggestions!
This is a huge frustration for sure about this medication as it is a wonderful medication but the cost is quite expensive. And I believe the coupons are only good for 6 months. You can speak to your provider and ask for them to advocate for lower the cost as well as advocating for better coverage by insurance. Beyond this, there are not a lot of options cost wise which I know is very disappointing.
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2 ReactionsWhat is the cost?
Male, 68. On Wegovy for weight loss 3 months now at the 1.7 dose. I have lost 30 pounds. I no longer have high blood pressure. Very few doctors know anything about how Wegovy works or how to deal with the side effects. The manufacturer is of no help at all. You do get through the side effects over time there is a hormone effect that happens to your body. The worst is my body temperature drops every afternoon and I get very cold. Wegovy does cause constipation and hard stools, part of the lack of not eating much. Drink lots of water, (I add electrolytes), go for fiber foods and I started using psyllium powder to add fiber and bulk to keep regular. Ask your doctor for some routine blood work and do your own research, I find some good stuff on youtube. Work on good eating habits for your future.
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3 ReactionsI see no reply to my post, guess this is not the place for Wegovy talk.
Hi @jrpusak - Are you hoping to talk to other people taking Wegovy, or did you have questions for the medical team? In blog posts (as opposed to discussion groups), not as many people are notified about comments. I also didn't see any questions in your post. What were you hoping to discuss?
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1 ReactionHi Sandy, this is completely dependent on your insurance company. We ask that patients make a call to their insurance company to inquire about costs before we even send the prescription through sometimes.