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Semaglutide (Wegovy)
brandedFDA-approved for chronic weight management
Est. Cost
$199-$349/mo
/month
Semaglutide, sold under the brand name Wegovy for weight management, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that may help patients achieve significant weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. It was one of the first weekly injectable GLP-1 medications approved specifically for chronic weight management and remains one of the most prescribed options. Clinical evidence suggests it may also offer cardiovascular benefits, making it a compelling choice for patients with obesity-related heart risk factors.
Dosage Format
Weekly subcutaneous injection, titrated from 0.25mg to 2.4mg over 16-20 weeks
Type
Branded
Best For
Patients seeking the most clinically studied weight loss injection with proven cardiovascular benefits
Key Benefit
Semaglutide is the most widely studied GLP-1 medication for weight loss, with clinical trials suggesting average weight reduction of 15-17% of body weight over 68 weeks.
Where to Get Semaglutide (Wegovy)
Compare providers offering semaglutide (wegovy) — ranked by our editorial team
Ro
Offers both branded Wegovy and compounded options; pricing varies by dosage tier and insurance eligibility
$149-$399/mo
/month
Hims
Branded Wegovy available through Novo Nordisk partnership; includes ongoing provider consultations
$199-$349/mo
/month
Noom
Pairs branded semaglutide with Noom's behavioral coaching platform for integrated weight management
$199-$349/mo
/month
How Semaglutide (Wegovy) Works
Semaglutide works by mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormone that your body produces after eating. It binds to GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which may help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness after meals. The medication also appears to slow gastric emptying, meaning food stays in your stomach longer, potentially helping you eat less throughout the day. Over time, these combined effects may lead to meaningful and sustained weight reduction when paired with lifestyle changes.
Side Effects
Common
- • Nausea (especially during dose titration)
- • Diarrhea
- • Vomiting
- • Constipation
- • Abdominal pain
- • Headache
- • Fatigue
Serious (Rare)
- • Pancreatitis (rare but seek immediate medical attention)
- • Gallbladder problems including gallstones
- • Kidney injury due to dehydration from GI side effects
- • Thyroid C-cell tumors (observed in animal studies; clinical significance in humans is uncertain)
- • Severe allergic reactions
Who Is Eligible
Semaglutide is generally prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30 or greater, or a BMI of 27 or greater with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It is not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. A licensed provider will evaluate your full medical history before prescribing.