Wegovy is a weekly injection used for weight management in adults with obesity, or in adults who are overweight with related health conditions, alongside diet and physical activity. The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1, which is involved in appetite and calorie intake.Who can take Wegovy?A healthcare professional will assess whether Wegovy is appropriate for you based on factors such as your body mass index (BMI), medical history and overall health.In the UK, this assessment typically includes whether your BMI meets the criteria for treatment. This is usually:You have a BMI of 30 or aboveYou have a BMI of 27 or above and have at least one weight-related complication, such as sleep apnoea or hypertensionThis will be considered alongside your overall health and individual circumstances.Wegovy is not suitable for anyone who is allergic to its ingredients, has severe digestive problems, is pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding.Before starting treatment, please let your healthcare provider know if:You have ever had pancreatitisYou are taking diabetes medication such as insulin or a sulfonylureaYou have diabetic eye diseaseYou are taking warfarin or other medicines to reduce blood clottingHow do you use Wegovy?Wegovy should be stored in the fridge and injected once weekly into an area such as your abdomen or upper arm. This should be done on the same day each week.New patients usually start on the lowest dose, 0.25mg, then increase the dose every four weeks to 0.5mg, 1mg and 1.7mg, until they reach 2.4mg in month 5. This may be adjusted based on tolerability. This gradual increase helps the body get used to semaglutide while reducing the likelihood of potential side effects.After at least 4 weeks on 2.4mg, some adult patients with obesity, defined as a BMI of 30 or above, may be considered for a higher weekly dose of 7.2mg if clinically appropriate and well tolerated. This decision is made by the prescriber.Wegovy side effectsSide effects from Wegovy are most common when starting treatment or increasing your dose. As mentioned above, this is why the dose is increased gradually.The most common Wegovy side effects, which may affect more than 1 in 10 people, include:HeadacheNauseaVomitingDiarrhoeaConstipationStomach painFeeling weak or tiredThese side effects are usually temporary and improve over time for many people, although this is not the case for everyone.If side effects persist, worsen or become difficult to manage, you should speak to your healthcare professional.Seek urgent medical advice if you experience serious symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, which may indicate pancreatitis, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, or any symptoms that are severe or worsening.Read the patient information leaflet (PIL) supplied with your medicine before starting treatment. The PIL contains the most accurate and up-to-date safety and usage information and should always be relied on over the general information provided on this page. If there is any difference, follow the PIL and speak to your healthcare professional.Wegovy FAQsWhere can I get Wegovy?Wegovy is available in the UK as a prescription-only medicine (POM). You will not be able to access Wegovy unless you have a prescription from your healthcare provider following a consultation, which will involve a review of your medical history and BMI.Are Ozempic and Wegovy the same thing?Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but they are licensed for different uses and may be prescribed at different doses. Wegovy is licensed for weight loss treatment in the UK, whereas Ozempic is licensed for type 2 diabetes.What should you eat if you’re taking Wegovy?As mentioned above, to support weight loss results, Wegovy should be used alongside increased physical activity and a balanced, reduced-calorie diet.This diet should ideally include nutrient-dense foods such as high-fibre vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats like nuts, avocados and olive oil, and lean proteins such as fish or tofu.If you experience nausea as a side effect of Wegovy, eating smaller, more frequent meals may help.