Your Guide to Wegovy: Semaglutide for Weight Loss

TL;DR

Wegovy is a once-weekly injectable medication that contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed to manage Type 2 diabetes. Today, it’s widely prescribed for weight loss due to its ability to reduce appetite and improve blood sugar control. It will be officially available in Singapore starting July 2025.

What is Wegovy (Semaglutide) and How Does It Work?

Wegovy is a brand name for semaglutide, a medication that mimics a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone plays a role in appetite regulation, insulin secretion, and blood sugar control.

Here’s how Wegovy works:

• Reduces appetite: It slows down the rate at which your stomach empties and signals the brain that you’re full, which helps reduce overeating and cravings.
• Improves blood sugar control: It helps your pancreas release the right amount of insulin while reducing the amount of glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar levels).
• Supports weight loss: With reduced food intake and improved insulin sensitivity, many patients experience sustained weight loss.

Semaglutide has been studied extensively in trials like the SUSTAIN and STEP programs, where it consistently outperformed other medications for both diabetes and weight loss.

What Conditions Can WeGovy Help With?

WeGovy helps with weight loss. Another weight loss medication brand, Ozempic, also contains semaglutide. However, Ozempic is primarily prescribed for Type 2 diabetes while Wegovy is specifically approved for weight loss. 

How Is Wegovy Administered?

Wegovy is available in once-weekly injectable form. It is administered under the skin in areas like the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen, and delivered using a pre-filled pen that can be self-injected after proper training. It is important to rotate injection sites to avoid skin irritation.

While oral semaglutide exists (brand name Rybelsus), it’s less commonly used for weight loss and is not branded as Wegovy.

Are There Any Side Effects or Risks?

While Wegovy is generally well-tolerated, it does come with potential side effects. These may include:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.
• Hypoglycemia: Especially when taken with other glucose-lowering medications.
• Increased heart rate: A mild rise in resting pulse may occur.
• Kidney issues: Worsening of pre-existing kidney conditions is possible.
• Pancreatitis: Though rare, there’s a risk of inflammation of the pancreas.
• Gallbladder problems: There may be an increased risk of gallstones or cholelithiasis.
• Diabetic retinopathy complications: Worsening of existing eye conditions in diabetic patients has been reported.

If you experience severe abdominal pain, vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction, contact a healthcare professional immediately.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Take Wegovy?

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is specifically approved for chronic weight management. It’s intended for use in individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Adults with a BMI ≥30 (classified as obese)
  
• Adults with a BMI ≥27 and at least one weight-related health issue, such as:
  
  • High blood pressure
    
  • Type 2 Diabetes
    
  • High cholesterol or dyslipidemia
    
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
    
• Individuals who are committed to making lifestyle changes, including healthier eating and regular physical activity
  

Wegovy is used as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan, not as a stand-alone solution.

Not recommended for:

• Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or MEN 2
  
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  
• People with a known hypersensitivity to semaglutide
  
• Those with severe gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroparesis

Is Wegovy Available in Singapore?

Currently, Wegovy is not yet available in Singapore. However, distribution is expected to begin in July 2025.

Patients who are interested in starting Wegovy once it becomes available are advised to speak with a medical provider to determine if it’s a suitable option based on their health profile.

Final Thoughts

Wegovy offers an exciting and clinically backed option for those struggling with both Type 2 Diabetes and weight management. However, like any medication, it isn’t a quick fix. It works best when used as part of a comprehensive approach that includes healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and routine medical supervision.

Always consult with a doctor before starting Wegovy to ensure it aligns with your health goals and medical history.

If you struggle with weight loss, we offer weight loss coaching plans designed to help you lose weight sustainably — no crash diets, no gimmicks. Just evidence-based strategies, personalised support, and progress that lasts.

Reach out to us today and let us help you start your journey to better health.