Wegovy (Semaglutide) Pen

Wegovy is considered safe for weight loss when prescribed and used under medical supervision. It has been approved by regulatory bodies such as the MHRA following rigorous testing.

However, like any medication, it may cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting or fatigue, particularly during the initial stages.

It’s not suitable for people with certain medical conditions like pancreatitis, thyroid cancer history or severe gastrointestinal issues.

Don’t worry – before you join Voy, we will assess your suitability for the programme and make sure that it is safe for you to use.

Wegovy is a brand-name version of semaglutide, a type of medication known as a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1). These medications mimic the effects of the natural gut hormone GLP-1, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and suppress appetite, which can lead to weight loss.

Wegovy supports weight loss by:

• Reducing appetite – making you feel less hungry.
• Reducing cravings – helping you make healthier choices.
• Lowering your ‘set point’ – allowing more weight loss before reaching a plateau.

While weight-loss medications like Wegovy have been used for years, recent advances have made them more effective and better tolerated. However, Wegovy alone will not provide sustainable weight loss. It works best when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, such as improved diet and regular exercise, for long-term weight management.

Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy, when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, can help people lose up to 15% of their total body weight over a year. Effectiveness may vary depending on your commitment to the treatment plan and any lifestyle adjustments you make.

Losing weight with Wegovy is a gradual process, and it’s important to view it as a journey rather than a quick fix. While you may start to see some weight loss within the first 4 weeks, the full effects typically take several weeks to months.

Clinical trials have shown that when combined with a calorie-reduced, healthy diet and regular exercise, people can lose up to 15% of their total body weight over a year.*

With Voy’s weight loss programme, which combines Wegovy with digital tracking tools and 1:1 coaching, you could lose 10%-15% of your body weight within 6 months.

Wegovy is a licensed weight loss medication in the UK, available only by prescription. To explore whether Wegovy or another treatment is suitable for you, complete the quick Voy questionnaire.

*Based on clinical trials by Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy.

Some people may notice visible weight loss within the first 4 weeks of treatment. However, the full effects tend to become more clear after a few months, depending on your commitment to the treatment plan and any lifestyle changes you make.

You should not use this medication if:

• You are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive.
• You have cancer.
• You have liver, kidney or congestive heart failure.
• You have pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
• You have type 1 diabetes or diabetic retinopathy.
• You have a history of eating disorders (e.g., anorexia or bulimia).
• You have a history of gallbladder problems.
• You have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or gastroparesis.

Our expert clinicians are here to provide personalised guidance before you start a treatment plan, ensuring it is safe and appropriate for you.

Before you start taking Wegovy, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. These are typically mild and temporary, particularly during the early stages of treatment or when your dose is increased as your body adjusts.

The most common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Abdominal pain
• Gas, heartburn or belching
• Fatigue

If side effects persist or become severe, our Voy clinicians will be available to provide you with the support you need, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them.

You might be prescribed Wegovy for weight loss if you have a BMI of 30 or above (or 27 or above with certain weight-related health conditions). It should be used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise.

When you start taking Wegovy, it’s important to follow the prescribed dosage schedule. This gradual increase allows your body to adjust to the medication and helps to minimise side effects.

• Month 1: Start with 0.25 mg per week for the first 4 weeks.
• Month 2: Increase to 0.5 mg per week.
• Month 3: Increase to 1 mg per week.
• Month 4: Increase to 1.7 mg per week.
• Month 5: Increase to the maximum dose of 2.4 mg per week.

Maintenance dose:

The standard maintenance dose for Wegovy is 2.4 mg a week, which is the maximum recommended dose for long-term weight management. However, some people may find they can maintain their weight loss effectively on a lower dose. Your clinician will work with you to determine the most appropriate maintenance dose for your needs.

You should inject Wegovy into one of the following areas:

• Abdomen – at least 5 cm away from your belly button
• Thighs
• Upper arms

Rotating your injection sites with each dose is important to minimise discomfort and reduce the risk of irritation. Always follow the instructions provided with your medication.

You will self-inject Wegovy at home once a week, on the same day each week, into the subcutaneous fat under your skin. The injection feels like a small pinprick, and you’ll quickly become accustomed to it. Always use Wegovy in a safe, clean environment and follow the instructions provided.

Step-by-step instructions for jnjecting Wegovy

1. Prepare for the injection

• Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Ensure your pen contains the correct dose and is intact, with the expiration date valid.
• Remove the pen’s cap and check that the solution is clear and colourless.
• Attach the needle, remove the inner needle cap (keep the outer cap for later disposal).
• If the solution is cloudy or contains particles, do not use the pen and let us know.
• Never reuse or share needles.

2. Check the flow (only for a new pen)

• Turn the dial on the pen to the flow check symbol.
• Hold the pen with the needle pointing upwards.
• Press and hold the dose button until the pointer aligns with “0”.
• A drop of solution should appear at the needle tip.
• If no drop appears, repeat this process up to two more times. If still unsuccessful, change the needle and try again. Contact your healthcare provider if the issue persists.

3. Select your dose

• Turn the dose selector until the counter stops at your prescribed dose.
• Do not inject more than your prescribed dose. Always follow your clinician’s instructions.

4. Inject your dose

• Clean the injection site (abdomen, upper arm, or thigh).
• Hold the pen at the injection site so you can see the dose counter. Insert the needle.
• Press and hold the dose button until the pointer aligns with “0”.
• Keep holding the button for 6 seconds to ensure the full dose is delivered.
• Gently remove the needle while keeping the button pressed.
• Rotate the injection site with each dose to minimise discomfort.

5. Discard your needle

• Replace the outer needle cap before carefully removing the needle from the pen.
• Dispose of the needle in a sharps bin – never in household waste.
• Use a gauze pad or cotton ball to apply light pressure to any bleeding.
• Keep used needles out of reach of children and pets.

6. How to store Wegovy

• Store in a refrigerator at 2°C–8°C. If needed, Wegovy can be stored at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 6 weeks.
• After use, replace the pen cap to protect the medication from light.
• Store without an attached needle.
• Avoid extreme temperatures (do not freeze or expose to direct sunlight). Never store the pen in places like a car or glove compartment.
• Ensure the medication is stored safely out of reach of children and pets.

By following these steps carefully, you’ll ensure effective use of Wegovy while being safe and hygienic. If you have any questions or concerns, get in touch with your Voy clinician.

• If you remember within 5 days: Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it’s been 5 days or more: Skip the missed dose and continue with your next scheduled dose as planned.
• If it’s been 2 weeks or longer: Talk to your clinician to determine how to restart your treatment.

Always follow your prescribed dosing schedule and seek advice if you're unsure.