The weight loss injection – a new option for weight loss?

The weight loss injection Wegovy is a medication used to treat obesity. The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide, which is also used to treat diabetes. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that works in the body in various ways to reduce hunger, promote satiety and regulate blood sugar levels.

Since the end of July, doctors have had the option to prescribe Wegovy to their obesity patients. Wegovy is available in different dosages: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg and 1 mg, similar to Ozempic. In addition, Wegovy offers higher dosages of 1.7 mg and 2.4 mg. New findings from the Select study, which were only recently published, suggest that Wegovy (semaglutide) can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes by 20%. These are encouraging results that could help change the image of Wegovy as a purely aesthetic product. This could also increase the chances that statutory health insurance companies will consider covering Wegovy.

Indication: Who is Wegovy suitable for?

Basically, this preparation is intended for adults with obesity and a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It can also be considered if the BMI reaches 27 and at least one weight-related comorbidity such as high blood pressure, prediabetes or others is present. It can also be considered for obese adolescents aged 12 and over. However, the injections are only intended for use as part of a calorie-reduced diet and increased physical activity.

How much does Wegovy cost in Germany?

Here are the prices for Wegovy for a period of use of 4 weeks (28 days) in the different dosages:

– Wegovy 0.25 mg FlexTouch injection solution prefilled pen 1 x 1.5 ml: 171.92 €

– Wegovy 0.50 mg FlexTouch injection solution prefilled pen 1 x 1.5 ml: 171.92 €

– Wegovy 1.00 mg FlexTouch injection solution prefilled pen 1 x 3 ml: 171.92 €

– Wegovy 1.70 mg FlexTouch injection solution prefilled pen 1 x 3 ml: €236.33

– Wegovy 2.40 mg FlexTouch injection solution prefilled pen 1 x 3 ml: €301.93

How is Wegovy dosed?

– Wegovy 0.25 mg FlexTouch injection solution 1 to 4 weeks

– Wegovy 0.50 mg FlexTouch injection solution 5 to 8 weeks

– Wegovy 1.00 mg FlexTouch injection solution 9 to 12 weeks

– Wegovy 1.70 mg FlexTouch injection solution 13 to 16 weeks

– Wegovy 2.40 mg FlexTouch injection solution from week 17

Does my health insurance pay for Wegovy?

Unfortunately, patients with statutory health insurance in Germany currently have to cover the costs of Wegovy themselves. However, Prof. Dr. Jens Aberle from the German Obesity Society is committed to ensuring that health insurance companies cover the costs in certain cases. It is already possible to submit an application to the health insurance company for individual cost coverage; whether this is approved is at the discretion of the respective health insurance company. The latest findings from the Select study could increase the likelihood of costs being covered in hardship cases. Some private health insurance companies already cover Wegovy.

How much weight can you lose in what period of time with Wegovy?

The manufacturer claims that Wegovy can lead to an average weight loss of 15% (between 5% and 20%) in 68 weeks. The placebo group, on the other hand, recorded a weight loss of only two percent. This study included almost 2,000 participants and was published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

What are the side effects of Wegovy?

The most common side effects are nausea, dizziness and diarrhea. If you lose weight too quickly, you may develop what is known as an "Ozempic/Wegovy face," where the face looks sunken and flabby. Other possible side effects include exhaustion, hair loss, constipation and others. A rare but serious side effect is acute pancreatitis, which can manifest itself as severe upper abdominal pain and is often accompanied by fever, nausea and vomiting. In this case, the medication should be discontinued. Long-term effects have not yet been sufficiently researched.

According to the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration), Ozempic/Wegovy may also increase the risk of thyroid cancer.

Who is Wegovy not suitable for?

Ozempic/Wegovy is contraindicated for people with cancer or thyroid disease, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people with hypersensitivity to the active ingredient. The EMA is currently investigating whether 'Wegovy' increases the risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harming behavior."

Is there an alternative? Yes! The 21-day metabolic cure !

While Wegovy has undoubtedly been introduced as a promising option for weight loss in Germany, some people are looking for alternative approaches to control their weight. For those looking for an alternative solution, the 21-day metabolic cure be an attractive option.

The 21-day metabolic cure is based on a holistic approach to weight loss and health. In contrast to medications such as Wegovy, this is a method that relies on nutrition, exercise and metabolic optimization.

Here are some reasons why the 21-Day Metabolic Diet might be an alternative worth considering:

1. Natural approach : The metabolic cure focuses on activating and optimizing your metabolism. It is based on a calorie-reduced diet and supporting nutritional supplements to help your body burn fat.
2. No side effects : Unlike medications like Wegovy, there are no known side effects with the metabolic cure. It relies on healthy eating and exercise to promote your health.
3. Sustainability : The metabolic diet aims at weight loss. It offers an approach to weight control and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
4. No prescription required : Unlike Wegovy, you do not need a doctor's prescription for the metabolic cure.

The choice between Wegovy and the 21-day metabolic cure depends on your individual preferences and needs. While Wegovy is a medicinal option, the metabolic diet offers an alternative approach to weight loss and health promotion.