Wegovy for weight loss is arriving at a time when obesity remains a major public health concern in England. According to the latest data, 26.5% of adults in 2023-24 were living with obesity, and about 64.5% were either overweight or obese. Clinical trials such as the STEP programme show that Wegovy (semaglutide), when combined with lifestyle changes, can lead to an average weight loss of roughly 15% of baseline body weight over 68 weeks. This article explains what those results mean, what to expect in the first month before and after, and the factors that influence your weight loss with Wegovy weight loss injections.
What is Wegovy, and how does it help with weight loss?
Wegovy weight loss injections contain semaglutide, a medicine that mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1. This hormone helps:
- Reduce appetite
- Slow down digestion
- Increase feelings of fullness
As a result, many people find they eat less without feeling deprived, which supports steady weight reduction.
Who can use Wegovy?
Wegovy is licensed in the UK for adults who:
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above (obese), or
- Have a BMI of 27 or above (overweight) with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
It is not intended as a quick fix but as part of a longer-term weight management plan.
What is the average weight loss on Wegovy?
Clinical trials have shown that people taking Wegovy for weight loss can lose around 15% of their starting body weight over 68 weeks when combined with diet and exercise changes.
To put this into perspective:
- A person weighing 15 stone (95 kg) could lose more than 2 stone (over 14 kg).
- Some participants lost even more weight, though results vary by individual.
These outcomes make Wegovy one of the most effective licensed weight loss treatments available in the UK.
What affects your results?
Your overall progress may depend on:
- Lifestyle habits: A balanced diet and regular activity enhance results.
- Starting weight: People with higher BMIs often see larger reductions in total kilograms.
- Consistency: Weekly injections and following the dosing schedule are key.
- Health conditions: Diabetes or metabolic issues may influence how quickly weight is lost.
What can you expect in the first month of Wegovy?
Many people wonder about the Wegovy 1-month before and after results. In the first month:
- The body is adjusting to the medicine.
- Doses are gradually increased to reduce side effects.
- Weight changes are usually modest, often 2–4 pounds.
This early stage is less about dramatic results and more about preparing the body for longer-term progress.
When do visible results appear?
By 3 to 6 months, most people start to see noticeable changes. At this stage, before and after comparisons often show visible differences in body shape and clothing sizes.
What side effects should you be aware of?
Like all medicines, Wegovy can cause side effects. Common ones include:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Fatigue
These often improve as the body adjusts. More serious but rare side effects can include pancreatitis and gallbladder problems. It’s important to report any unusual symptoms to your pharmacist.
Is Wegovy suitable for everyone?
Not everyone is a candidate for Wegovy. It may not be recommended if you are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Under 18 years old
- Living with a history of pancreatitis or certain endocrine conditions
Your suitability can be confirmed through a consultation with a qualified pharmacist.
How to begin your Wegovy journey safely
Starting Wegovy should always be done with professional guidance. At Touchwood Pharmacy, our pharmacists provide:
- Suitability assessments
- Guidance on how to use the injection pen
- Ongoing support to track progress and manage side effects
Book your appointment with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy to start your safe and supported weight loss journey with Wegovy.
FAQs on Wegovy Weight Loss Injections
How much weight can you lose with Wegovy in the first month?
In the first month, most people lose only a small amount of weight, often around 2 to 4 pounds. The early weeks are mainly for adjusting the body to the treatment and managing side effects, so the larger weight loss usually comes later.
What is the average long-term weight loss with Wegovy?
Studies show that people using Wegovy for weight loss can lose around 15% of their starting body weight over 68 weeks. Some individuals lose more, especially when the injections are combined with healthy eating and regular exercise.
Are Wegovy results permanent once you stop the injections?
Weight regain is common after stopping Wegovy if lifestyle changes are not maintained. The medicine helps reduce appetite while you are on it, but once stopped, your appetite may return to previous levels. Long-term results depend on diet, exercise, and ongoing support.
Can you take Wegovy if you do not have diabetes?
Yes, Wegovy can be prescribed for weight management in people without diabetes. It is specifically licensed in the UK for adults with obesity or weight-related health conditions, regardless of whether they have diabetes.
What do Wegovy before and after results look like at 6 months?
By 6 months, many people notice significant weight loss, sometimes up to 10% of their starting body weight. This is often when before and after photos show visible changes in body shape and clothing sizes.
How quickly do Wegovy weight loss injections start working?
Wegovy begins working on appetite control within the first few weeks. However, noticeable weight loss results usually take 3 to 6 months, once the dose is gradually increased to the effective treatment level.
