This Promising Weight Loss Drug Just Got Approved by the FDA
If you’re looking into different options for losing weight, there’s now a promising new option that’ll be available soon and could much a huge difference. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced its approval of a drug called Wegovy, and it could be totally life-changing.
In fact, it’s the first chronic weight management medication that the agency has approved in seven years, and there’s a reason why scientists and health experts alike are so excited about what it could do.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a higher dosage of a popular diabetes medication called semaglutide. Research has shown that the compounds in it have an appetite-suppressing, which leaves people feeling fuller after eating less food. In turn, this helps them lose weight over time.
Just how effective is Wegovy? In clinical trials, participants lost an average of 12.4 percent of their initial body weight, and even more incredibly, they saw consistent weight loss for up to 16 months without a plateau.
People who have type 2 diabetes and are obese can also see dual health benefits, as the drug can help them regulate their blood sugar while also managing their weight.
What are the side effects?
Currently, Wegovy is available with a prescription and is injected by patients into the stomach area once a week so that semaglutide’s compounds can more directly impact the gut. There aren’t any major reported side effects from taking it, but some people may experience dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, and gassiness. It’s recommended that people don’t get the injections if they’re taking other weight loss or management medications, and it may also negatively impact people with specific thyroid or pancreas issues.
In terms of cost, Wegovy is pricey at $1,349 for four one-milligram doses without any insurance, but obviously that’s subject to change depending on your personal coverage. Definitely check in with your insurance provider to see what your choices are. Regardless, it could be worth talking to your doctor to learn more and take a closer look at the options available to you!
