Wegovy - What to Know About This Prescription Weight Loss Medication

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is a once-weekly injectable medication approved by the FDA for chronic weight management. Marketed by Novo Nordisk, Wegovy is the first GLP-1 receptor agonist specifically approved for weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight and certain health conditions.

Wegovy - What to Know About This Prescription Weight Loss Medication

This article breaks down who Wegovy is for, how it works, how to get it, how much it costs, and how to save money with insurance and discount programs.


What Is Wegovy?

Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide 2.4 mg, a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist.

Semaglutide mimics a natural hormone that regulates appetite and food intake. It slows digestion, promotes satiety, and reduces hunger signals—resulting in fewer calories consumed and, over time, weight loss.

Unlike Ozempic (semaglutide 1 mg), which is approved for type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is FDA-approved specifically for weight loss.


Who Is Wegovy For?

FDA-approved for adults who are:

  • Obese (BMI ≥ 30)
  • Overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with at least one weight-related condition:
    • Type 2 diabetes
    • High blood pressure
    • High cholesterol
    • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2
  • Children under 12
  • People with pancreatitis or gallbladder disease

🧪 Pediatric Use:

In 2022, Wegovy was approved for children aged 12–17 with obesity (BMI ≥ 95th percentile for age and sex).


How Does Wegovy Work?

Wegovy activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain and gut, which:

  • Delay stomach emptying
  • Reduce appetite
  • Improve glucose metabolism
  • Promote sustained weight loss

In clinical trials (STEP program), adults lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.


How to Get Wegovy

Wegovy is a prescription-only medication.

1. In-Person Consultation

Speak with your primary care doctor, endocrinologist, or a bariatric specialist to assess your eligibility.

2. Online Telehealth Providers

Platforms offering Wegovy evaluations include:

They provide virtual consultations and home delivery if prescribed.


Where to Buy Wegovy

Once prescribed, you can fill Wegovy at:

  • Major chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid)
  • Costco Pharmacy (often cheaper)
  • Mail-order or specialty pharmacies (especially for insurance-covered fills)

💡 Note: Due to intermittent shortages, availability may vary by location. Check https://www.novo-pi.com/wegovy.pdf or ask your pharmacy to confirm stock.


Wegovy Cost: How Much Does It Cost?

💵 Retail price (without insurance):
Approximately $1,349 per month (4 weekly injections)

Prices may vary slightly between pharmacies and depend on supply.


Insurance Coverage for Wegovy

Coverage varies significantly:

Some private insurance plans cover Wegovy for obesity treatment, especially if your employer plan includes weight-loss benefits.

Medicare and Medicaid:

As of mid-2025, federal programs generally do not cover medications for weight loss, including Wegovy. However, this may change with recent legislative efforts (e.g., the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act).

📋 How to increase approval chances:

  • Have a BMI over 30 (or over 27 with comorbidities)
  • Document prior weight loss attempts
  • Request a prior authorization form from your provider

Wegovy Savings Options

1. Wegovy Savings Card

Novo Nordisk offers a savings card for patients with commercial insurance:

  • Pay as little as $0 for the first month, then as little as $25/month after that
  • Requires commercial/private insurance that covers Wegovy
  • Max savings: $225/month (up to 12 months)

💳 Sign up here: https://www.wegovy.com/coverage-and-savings/save-on-wegovy.html

2. Compounded Semaglutide (Alternative)

Some clinics offer compounded semaglutide versions (unbranded), often at lower prices (~$300–$600/month).
⚠️ Note: These are not FDA-approved formulations and may vary in safety and quality.


Common Side Effects

Most people tolerate Wegovy well, but common side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fatigue

Serious risks (rare):

  • Pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder problems
  • Increased heart rate
  • Thyroid tumors (animal studies)

➡️ Talk to your provider about risks before starting.


Final Thoughts

Wegovy offers a powerful, evidence-based option for those struggling with obesity or overweight-related conditions. It can lead to sustainable weight loss, particularly when combined with lifestyle changes. While it is costly, insurance coverage, savings cards, and telehealth access can help make it more affordable.

If you’re eligible, speak to a doctor or telehealth provider about Wegovy, and check your insurance plan for weight loss medication benefits.


Sources and References

  1. Wegovy Official Site + Savings Card
    https://www.wegovy.com
  2. STEP Trials for Weight Loss (NEJM)
  3. Mayo Clinic – Semaglutide for Weight Loss
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/semaglutide-subcutaneous-route/description/drg-20406730
  4. Novo Nordisk Wegovy Prescribing Information
    https://www.novo-pi.com/wegovy.pdf
  5. Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (Proposed Legislative Coverage)
    https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/2407/text