Wegovy (Injectable)
semaglutide · Novo Nordisk
Form
Injectable pen (subcutaneous)
Frequency
Once weekly
Available Doses
FDA Approval Date
June 4, 2021 (2.4mg) / March 19, 2026 (7.2mg HD)
Mechanism
GLP-1 receptor agonist (peptide)
Manufacturer
Novo Nordisk
Cost
Self-Pay
$199/mo introductory (0.25mg pen, until Aug 31, 2026) to ~$1,349/mo (list)
With Savings Card
$25/mo for commercially insured patients
Introductory 0.25mg pen pricing of $199/mo available until Aug 31, 2026. HD 7.2mg pricing may vary.
Side Effects
| Side Effect | Rate | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | ~44% | STEP trials, 2.4mg dose |
| Diarrhea | ~30% | STEP trials, 2.4mg dose |
| Vomiting | ~24% | STEP trials, 2.4mg dose |
| Constipation | ~24% | STEP trials, 2.4mg dose |
| Headache | ~14% | STEP trials, 2.4mg dose |
| Fatigue | ~11% | STEP trials, 2.4mg dose |
| Injection site reactions | ~6% | STEP trials |
Source: STEP Clinical Trial Program (STEP 1-5), semaglutide 2.4mg, 68 weeks
Weight Loss Results
STEP 1
~14.9%
68 weeks · Treatment regimen (ITT)
Semaglutide 2.4mg vs placebo in adults with obesity.
STEP 1
~17.4%
68 weeks · Completers analysis
Completers analysis showed higher weight loss.
STEP UP
~21%
72 weeks · Completers analysis
Wegovy HD 7.2mg dose. Significantly greater weight loss than 2.4mg.
How It Works
Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the body's natural GLP-1 hormone. Injected weekly, it acts on the brain to reduce hunger and increase satiety, slows gastric emptying, and improves metabolic function. The HD 7.2mg dose delivers nearly triple the standard dose for enhanced efficacy.
Mechanism: Wegovy injectable is the same molecule as Ozempic (semaglutide) but approved at higher doses specifically for weight management. The new 7.2mg HD (high dose) pen, approved March 2026 based on the STEP UP trial, delivers significantly more weight loss than the standard 2.4mg dose.
Who It's For
Indication
Chronic weight management (obesity or overweight with comorbidities). Also approved for cardiovascular risk reduction.
Adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition. Also approved for reducing cardiovascular events in adults with established CVD and obesity/overweight. The HD 7.2mg is for patients who need greater weight loss than standard 2.4mg provides.
Food & Water Restrictions
✅ No Restrictions
This medication can be taken at any time of day, with or without food and water.
Switching Guides
Comparisons
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial data referenced comes from published studies and FDA prescribing information. Side effect rates are from specific clinical trials and may not reflect real-world experience. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or switching any medication.