Wegovy (semaglutide)

Wegovy (semaglutide)
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Wegovy (semaglutide)

Price range: £12.00 through £23.00

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Wegovy (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable treatment that helps individuals with obesity or overweight lose weight. It works by suppressing appetite and reducing overall cravings.

 

✔ Targets the GLP-1 receptors
✔ Proven in clinical trials
✔ Reduces appetite and reduces cravings
✔ Once weekly injection with pre-filled pen
✔ Reviewed by our experts
✔ Discreet UK-wide delivery

Once you complete your assessment and place an order, our pharmacist will review your details to ensure this treatment is right for you. If approved, we’ll send your medication directly to your doorstep in secure packaging.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription, once-weekly GLP-1 weight loss injection for adults dealing with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. This weight loss injectable works by controlling appetite and calorie intake. It may also be suitable for people with a BMI of 27 who have been diagnosed with weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Clinical trials show that, when combined with diet and exercise, Wegovy helps most people lose 15–20% of their starting body weight over 68 weeks.

What are the key benefits of Wegovy?

Wegovy offers a range of benefits that support both weight management and overall health. The key benefits of Wegovy are:
  • Sustained weight loss
    • STEP clinical trials showed an average reduction of 15–20% body weight over 68 weeks.
    • Most weight loss occurs in the first 20–30 weeks, then plateaus, helping patients maintain results long term.
  • Reduced appetite and cravings
    • By activating GLP‑1 receptors, Wegovy slows gastric emptying and signals a feeling of fullness.
    • Patients report eating smaller portions and fewer snacks between meals.
  • Improved glycaemic control
    • Lowers fasting glucose and HbA1c by up to 1.6 percentage points in people with type 2 diabetes.
    • Reduces insulin resistance, decreasing both blood sugar spikes and dips.
  • Cardiovascular risk reduction
    • Weight loss itself lowers blood pressure, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the body.
    • Clinical trials suggest a potential reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in high‑risk patients.
  • Enhanced quality of life
    • Many users report improved mobility and better mood as weight decreases.
    • Reduced joint pain and sleep apnoea symptoms are common secondary gains.

    How does Wegovy work?

    Mechanism of Action of Wegovy:
  • GLP‑1 receptor agonist When Semaglutide binds GLP‑1 receptors, it:
        • Slows gastric emptying
        • Increases satiety
        • Stimulates insulin secretion only when glucose levels are high
  • Suppresses glucagon secretion, preventing excess blood sugar
  • Central appetite control
        • Targets brain regions that integrate hunger and reward signals.
  • Lowers activity in the “reward” pathways that drive overeating of high‑calorie foods.
  • Wegovy directly suppresses appetite, reducing the desire to eat. It works by mimicking a natural hormone in the body, GLP-1. By functioning like GLP-1, Wegovy helps you feel fuller, leading to significant weight loss.

    How effective is Wegovy for weight loss?

    Semaglutide has proved to be an effective weight loss treatment under STEP trials, with benefits sustained over time when used consistently.  
    Trial Phase Population Weight Loss vs Placebo HbA1c Reduction Key Findings
    STEP 1 Obese adults without diabetes –14.9% –0.2% 86% achieved ≥ 5% weight loss and 69% ≥ 10%
    STEP 2 Overweight/obese with type 2 diabetes –9.6% –1.6% Superior glycaemic control vs titrated comparators
    STEP 3 Intensive behavioural therapy + Wegovy –16.0% –0.8% Demonstrated additive benefit of structured support
    STEP 4 Dose‑escalation maintenance study –17.4% –0.9% Showed sustained weight loss when continuing treatment
    • Adults with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² (obesity)
    • Adults with a BMI 27–29.9 kg/m² (overweight) with at least one comorbidity, such as:
        • Type 2 diabetes
        • High blood pressure
        • Obstructive sleep apnoea
        • Cardiovascular issues
        • High cholesterol
        • Prediabetes
      • Insulin resistance
    • Individuals who have struggled with traditional weight loss methods, like diet and exercise alone
    • Those seeking medically supervised weight management for long-term lifestyle improvement

    Note: Wegovy should be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting treatment.

    Before starting Wegovy, it’s important to understand the potential risks, contraindications, and situations requiring extra care. Always use under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

    1. Not for use in certain conditions

    • Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
    • Have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
    • Are allergic to semaglutide or any of its ingredients

    2. Thyroid tumour risk

    • Animal studies have shown an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumours.
    • Report any neck swelling, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or a lump in your neck to your doctor.

    3. Pancreatitis

    • Cases of acute pancreatitis have been reported with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide.
    • Seek immediate medical attention if you develop severe abdominal pain

    4. Gallbladder disease

    • Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones and gallbladder inflammation
    • Monitor for symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice.

    5. Gastrointestinal side effects

    • Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort.
    • These symptoms are usually temporary and may reduce over time

    6. Kidney function

    • Dehydration from nausea and vomiting may lead to worsening kidney function, particularly in those with pre-existing kidney disease.
    • Stay well-hydrated and report any signs of reduced urination or swelling.

    7. Diabetic eye disease 

    • Wegovy can temporarily worsen diabetic retinopathy, especially in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.
    • Regular eye exams are recommended if you have a history of diabetic eye disease.

    8. Not a substitute for insulin

    • Wegovy is not intended to treat type 1 diabetes or serve as a replacement for insulin therapy.
    • Blood sugar levels should be monitored regularly if you have diabetes.

    9. Pregnancy and breastfeeding

    • Wegovy is not recommended during pregnancy. Discontinue at least 2 months before planning pregnancy due to its long half-life.
    • It is not known if semaglutide passes into breast milk. Discuss with your healthcare provider about breastfeeding.

    10. Mental health considerations

    • Monitor for signs of depression, mood changes, or suicidal thoughts.
    • Report any unusual mood changes to your clinician immediately.

    11. Medication interactions

    • Wegovy may delay gastric emptying, which could potentially affect the absorption of oral medications.
    • Let your healthcare provider know about all the medications you’re taking, especially those for diabetes, blood pressure, or thyroid.

    Always consult a healthcare professional before starting Wegovy. Lifestyle habits and medical history must be carefully reviewed to ensure this treatment is appropriate for you.

    Directions 

    • Usage frequency
    • Wegovy is injected once a week, on the same day each week.
    • Needle angle: 
    • Insert at a 45–90‑degree angle, depending on subcutaneous fat thickness.
    • Injection Site
    • Inject it subcutaneously in one of the following areas:
      • Abdomen
      • Thigh
      • Upper arm
    • Missed dose
      • If ≤ 5 days late: administer as soon as remembered
      • If > 5 days late: skip and resume next scheduled dose, do not double up

      Dose Escalation Schedule

      Begin at a low dose and gradually increase to minimise side effects:

      Week Weekly Dose
      1–4 0.25 mg
      5–8 0.5 mg
      9–12 1.0 mg
      13–16 1.7 mg
      ≥ 17 2.4 mg (maintenance)

      Patients remain at 2.4 mg once weekly for ongoing weight management.

      Storage and Handling

      • Keep pens at 2–8 °C (36–46 °F)
      • After removal, let stand 30 minutes before injection (up to 30 °C/86 °F).
      • Shelf‑Life: Use pens within 56 days of first use.
      • Precautions: Do not freeze or expose to direct sunlight; protect from temperatures above 30 °C.

      Always follow the instructions provided during your consultation and on the packaging of the weight loss medication.

      Ready to start your weight loss journey? Buy Wegovy Online UK at Star Pharmacy.

      Disposal

      • A pre-filled pen is only used once, then safely discard it in a sharps container.
      • Do not reuse or share your pen with anyone.

    Active Ingredient:

    The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide.

    It resists enzymatic breakdown and binds GLP‑1 receptors to:

    • Enhance insulin release when blood sugar levels are high
    • Slow gastric emptying to increase satiety
    • Signal fullness to the hypothalamus

    Inactive Ingredients: 

    These are used to make the medication safe and effective:

    • Sodium chloride
    • Maintains isotonicity so the injection feels comfortable.
    • Disodium phosphate dihydrate
    • Buffers the solution to a stable pH, preserving peptide solubility and integrity.
    • Water for injection
    • A sterile, pyrogen‑free solvent that dissolves all ingredients uniformly.
    • Hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide
    • Adjusts pH to approximately 7.2, optimising semaglutide stability and patient comfort.Each pre‑filled pen delivers accurate dosing increments and preserves peptide stability through controlled packaging and temperature regulation, minimising variability and ensuring consistent efficacy.

     

    Very common side effects

    • Diarrhea
    • Vomiting
    • Constipation
    • Nausea
    • Stomach pain
    • Headache

    Common side effects

      • Abdominal discomfort
      • Belching
    • Fatigue

    • Uncommon side effects

      • Pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain)
      • Gallbladder disease (cholelithiasis)
      • Acute kidney injury (accompanied by severe dehydration)
      • Severe allergic reactions (rash, airway constriction)

      Management strategies 

    • Titration:
    • Slow dose increases help reduce GI upset.
    • Diet Modifications:
          • Small meals
          • Low‑fat foods
          • Sipping clear fluids to avoid dehydration
          • Avoid greasy or spicy foods
    • Symptomatic Relief:
          • Antiemetics for nausea
    • Laxatives or fibre supplements for constipation
    • When to Seek Care:
          • Sudden severe abdominal pain (pancreatitis risk)
          • Signs of allergic reaction (hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
    • Visual changes or rapid heartbeat
    • Always discuss persistent or severe symptoms promptly with your healthcare provider.

    Reviews

    user

    Adam

    Exceptional service. We needed medicine for my parents. The pharmacy was able to arrange stock and deliver the medication on the same day. The team really went the extra mile.

    user

    Galaxy 24

    Really good staff! Very helpful and prompt. I had a really bad experience at my previous pharmacy, really happy I moved over. Recommend to everyone especially because they’re open 7 days a week even on bank holidays!

    user

    Aleena W

    I had an excellent experience at Star Pharmacy! The staff is incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to help. They go above and beyond to answer questions and ensure you get the right medication. The store is clean, well-organized, and fully stocked with everything you need. Highly recommend this pharmacy for their outstanding customer service!

    user

    Rachel

    Excellent pharmacy, quick and kind. Now that I’ve moved house, I still travel all the way here even though I could pick somewhere closer. Just couldn’t go anywhere else!

    user

    Krystal Clair

    Always really helpful & so friendly. Even when not dispensing my medicine, the pharmacist has given me second opinion and checked me over. Have ordered me needles in that I had trouble getting elsewhere also. So refreshing to find a pharmacy who wants to help and is kind!

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    Enjoy a one-to-one consultation with our expert. We’ll review your symptoms and history to recommend the safest treatment.

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    FAQs

    How to use weight loss injections?

    They’re usually taken once a week using a simple pre-filled pen. You inject it yourself, following the step-by-step guidance from our healthcare provider.

    Yes, when prescribed and monitored by our professionals at Star Pharmacy. Some people may experience temporary side effects like nausea, headaches, or mild digestive changes.

    Each pen contains four doses, so it will last for around one month when used weekly.

    Generally for adults with a BMI of 30+, or 27+ if you have weight-related conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Your eligibility will be confirmed in a consultation.

    Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and mild headaches. These effects are usually temporary and improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

    Use the formula: weight (kg) ÷ height (m²), or check with any online BMI calculator for quick results.

    Prescription based weight loss injections called a GLP-1 injection help you reduce appetite and help control hunger, making it easier to lose weight and keep it off.

    Each Wegovy pen has 4 doses. The dosage begins at 0.25 mg once a week for the first 4 weeks, which is then increased based on individual responses and tolerance, going to a maximum of 2.4 mg once a week.

    Wegovy involves a weekly subcutaneous (under the skin) injection in the lower abdomen, thigh or upper arm. Rotate the injection sites each week to avoid irritation or discomfort. At Star Pharmacy, we’ll give you detailed guidance on how to use it.

    The benefits you have gained would gradually diminish if you stop taking Wegovy, leading to weight regain. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before stopping Wegovy so that they can maintain your progress with alternative strategies.

    Wegovy is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider for alternative options to ensure safety.

    Wegovy is not recommended to; Adults over 75 years Pregnant and breastfeeding women Anyone with an eating disorder In case of pancreatitis

    If it's been 5 days or less, inject as soon as you remember, then resume your regular schedule. If it's been more than 5 days, skip the missed dose and inject on your next scheduled day. Do not take two doses to make up for a missed one.