GLP-1 weight care

Semaglutide (Wegovy®) for weight management

Medical review pending · Last updated 2026-11-03

Semaglutide is a once-weekly injectable (and now once-daily oral) GLP-1 medicine. If prescribed by a licensed provider, it is used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

FDA-approved uses of Wegovy®

Chronic weight management in adults with obesity, or overweight with at least one weight-related condition, and in pediatric patients 12 and older with obesity (injection).
Reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with established cardiovascular disease and obesity or overweight.
Noncirrhotic MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis) with moderate-to-advanced liver fibrosis in adults, with diet and exercise.

How semaglutide works

Semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors, slowing stomach emptying and signaling fullness in the brain. Doses are typically increased gradually over several months to help with tolerability, following the FDA-approved label.

What to expect

Results vary from person to person, and no specific amount of weight loss can be promised. Gastrointestinal side effects are common, especially as the dose increases. Your provider will review your goals, history, and follow-up plan.

Cost

Cost depends on insurance coverage and manufacturer self-pay programs, which change frequently.

Compare: tirzepatide (Zepbound®) · tirzepatide vs. semaglutide · Zepbound vs. Wegovy

Important safety information: GLP-1 medicines

This is a summary, not the full prescribing information. Always read the FDA-approved Medication Guide and talk with your prescriber. Full labels: Wegovy® · Zepbound®.

Boxed warning, thyroid C-cell tumors: In rodents, semaglutide and tirzepatide caused thyroid C-cell tumors. It is unknown whether they cause these tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans. Do not use if you or a family member have had MTC or if you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Serious side effects can include: inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), gallbladder problems, low blood sugar (especially with insulin or sulfonylureas), kidney problems from dehydration, severe stomach and intestinal side effects, serious allergic reactions, diabetic retinopathy complications (in people with type 2 diabetes), and, with Wegovy®, increased heart rate. Seek care right away for severe stomach pain, signs of an allergic reaction, or a lump or swelling in the neck.
Common side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and decreased appetite.
Anesthesia: Tell your provider before any planned surgery or procedure requiring anesthesia or deep sedation; these medicines can raise the risk of food or liquid getting into the lungs.
Pregnancy: Not for use during pregnancy. Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Tirzepatide may reduce the effectiveness of oral birth control.
Tell your provider about all medicines you take, including other GLP-1 medicines.

Prescription eligibility is determined only by a licensed clinician. Draft ISI for medical and legal review; replace with partner-approved, product-specific ISI before launch.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Wegovy and Ozempic?

Both contain semaglutide. Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management (and cardiovascular risk reduction and MASH in certain adults); Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes. They have different dosing.

Is there a semaglutide pill for weight loss?

Yes. FDA approved a once-daily oral Wegovy® tablet for chronic weight management in December 2025. A provider can discuss whether the injection or the tablet fits you.

Can I get semaglutide online?

In states where care is available, a licensed provider can evaluate you by telehealth and, if appropriate, prescribe an FDA-approved semaglutide product filled by a licensed pharmacy.

Sources

Sources are listed for reference and do not imply endorsement. Regulatory status can change; check the date above.