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How to Obtain a Prescription for Wegovy for Weight Loss

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Embark on your online weight loss journey! Schedule a video appointment with a medical expert and receive a prescription for weight loss medications like Wegovy if deemed necessary.
Written by:
Wafaa Amjad Dar
Pharm-D
Reviewer:
Dr. Bradley Noon
MD
Medical Disclaimer
The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only. Their inclusion does not guarantee that they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. This list is not exhaustive, and healthcare providers may prescribe other medications, including non-stimulant options, based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs. Read more

In recent years, the search for new weight loss strategies has led to the development of innovative medications. Wegovy has been gaining popularity as it has shown promising results in aiding weight loss plans. Obtaining a Wegovy prescription through telehealth is becoming a convenient option for many individuals seeking a viable solution to their weight management journey.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into what Wegovy is, its effectiveness, eligibility criteria, potential side effects, and the process of securing online prescriptions for Wegovy.

What to Know About Wegovy

Wegovy is an injectable prescription medication. It is the brand version of semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, FDA-approved [1*] medication for weight management. Wegovy is recommended as part of a weight management plan that includes increased physical activity and a reduced-calorie diet.

Wegovy for weight loss is available in prefilled single-dose pens with doses ranging from 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, to 2.4 mg, administered subcutaneously.

How Does It Work?

Semaglutide acts on the brain and gut, mimicking the actions of GLP-1. It can regulate and decrease appetite, reduce caloric intake, and increase the feeling of fullness. As a result, this leads to a reduction in body weight. In this way, Wegovy helps to both lose body weight and maintain weight when combined with exercise and a proper diet.

Is It Effective for Weight Loss?

Extensive research indicates that Wegovy stands out as a highly effective weight loss medication when compared to other alternatives in the market. The effectiveness of weight loss medications is often evaluated based on the criteria established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which requires that a medication must contribute to a weight loss of 5% or more [2*] to be approved for weight management.

In the case of Wegovy (semaglutide), clinical trials have revealed that patients who took Wegovy experienced a notable weight loss of 15.2% [3*] of their initial body weight over a span of 104 weeks. In contrast, those who received a placebo exhibited only a 2.6% weight loss.

These results highlight that Wegovy can be highly effective, exceeding the FDA’s standards for weight loss medications. It’s a compelling choice for those looking for substantial and clinically significant weight reduction.

Prescription Requirements

If you believe you need a prescription for Wegovy, you should know there are several prescription requirements since not everyone qualifies for such a form of treatment. These requirements include a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s medical history, current health status, and the potential risks and benefits associated with using Wegovy. After conducting a thorough evaluation, your healthcare provider will provide guidance on Wegovy criteria for use. 

Consult a medical professional online. Receive a personalized weight loss plan and learn whether you qualify for Wegovy use.

Who Qualifies for This Medication?

To be eligible for Wegovy prescription, individuals must meet certain criteria based on their body mass index (BMI) and associated health conditions. Specifically:

  • Adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or greater as an indicator of obesity.
  • In the case of individuals with health conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and overweight status, adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater are eligible.

Who Should Not Take It?

For some individuals, Wegovy may be unsuitable or unsafe, and in such cases, their doctor might recommend an alternative medication better suited to their needs. Individuals who should not take Wegovy under any circumstances include:

  • Those allergic to semaglutide or any other ingredients in Wegovy.
  • Those with a personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC).
  • Those with a family history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2).
  • Pregnant individuals, as the medication may harm the baby.
  • Both men and women planning to conceive should discontinue Wegovy two months before conception.
  • Those already taking insulin or insulin secretagogues.
  • Those with a history of pancreatitis.

How to Get Prescribed Wegovy for Weight Loss

To get Wegovy prescribed online, it’s important to adhere to certain guidelines. You have to see a qualified healthcare provider, go through a health assessment, and receive a legitimate prescription to buy and use this medication.

Once you have a legal prescription in hand, you can proceed to purchase Wegovy from a licensed pharmacy to start your weight loss plan with confidence and compliance. 

Six Steps to Getting a Wegovy Prescription Online at MEDvidi

To get a Wegovy prescription through MEDvidi, you follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Create an account on the MEDvidi portal by providing basic personal and medical information.
  • Step 2: Schedule an online appointment with a healthcare provider by choosing your preferred date and time slot.
  • Step 3: During your online weight loss consultation, the healthcare professional will conduct a detailed assessment, inquiring about your weight loss attempts and goals, lifestyle, medical history, and weight management preferences.
  • Step 4: After a thorough evaluation, an online medical provider will write a prescription for Wegovy if it is deemed necessary and the best choice for you.
  • Step 5: Fill the prescription by visiting your local pharmacy.
  • Step 6: After getting Wegovyy injections, follow your clinician’s guidance and instructions. If you experience any serious side effects, report them to your healthcare provider.

Who Can Prescribe This Medication?

Wegovy is a prescription weight loss medication, and healthcare professionals with the appropriate state licenses can prescribe it to individuals. In the United States, licensed doctors who prescribe Wegovy include bariatricians (obesity specialists), primary care physicians, physician assistants, endocrinologists, family doctors, nurse practitioners, and psychiatrists.

Learn more: What type of doctors to see for weight loss and how to choose one.

Side Effects

As with any medication, Wegovy may potentially cause adverse effects. Their occurrence can vary among individuals; not everyone taking Wegovy will necessarily experience them.

Some of the most common side effects associated with Wegovy include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal distension
  • Belching and burping
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Risks and Precautions

When considering Wegovy, individuals should be aware of the associated risks and take necessary precautions. Certain adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary.

Following are the associated risks and precautions associated with Wegovy use:

  • When beginning Wegovy, it’s important to watch for signs of pancreatitis. These signs may involve intense abdominal pain, sometimes spreading to the back, and possibly accompanied by vomiting.
  • The use of Wegovy may increase the risk of developing gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder.
  • Be cautious, as Wegovy can significantly reduce blood sugar levels.
  • Individuals with renal impairment may face an increased risk of acute renal injury or severe gastrointestinal adverse effects while using Wegovy.
  • Patients with type 2 diabetes are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy and should undergo evaluation during therapy.
  • Be attentive to changes in heart rate, as Wegovy may lead to an increase. If you experience palpitations, it’s advisable to monitor them.
  • Individuals taking Wegovy should be aware of the potential development of depression or suicidal thoughts.

How Much Does It Cost

The medication cost varies depending on the location and is also influenced by the availability of coupons, discounts, or insurance at the pharmacy of choice. Generally, a pack of Wegovy is priced at $1,349, containing four pens, with one pen intended for each week. Given Wegovy’s role in long-term weight management, individuals may use it for a year, resulting in an estimated annual cost of approximately $16,000.

The information about Wegovy costs is provided as of March 2024. Remember to check the current pricing when considering using this medication.

Is It Covered by Insurance?

The good thing is that when covered by insurance, the cost of Wegovy is considerably lower. Yet, it’s essential to note that not all health insurance policies cover weight loss medications; only some do. The expense of Wegovy with insurance depends on the type of insurance coverage, whether it’s weight loss insurance, commercial insurance, or private insurance, and the pharmacy linked to your insurance. It’s advisable to check with your insurance plan to confirm whether Wegovy is included. 

How to Get Wegovy Without Insurance Coverage?

If your insurance doesn’t cover weight loss medications such as Wegovy, don’t worry; there are numerous options available for purchasing Wegovy at a discounted price. You can also utilize various coupons to receive a price cut when purchasing Wegovy. Additionally, another avenue for obtaining Wegovy at a reduced price is through savings offers, including one provided by Novo Nordisk itself named “WeGo Together“.

What Other Medications Can MEDvidi Providers Prescribe for Weight Loss

There are several medications MEDvidi healthcare providers can prescribe to help patients in their weight loss journey, each with its own mechanism of action and pros and cons. While Wegovy has gained attention for its efficacy, there are other medications that offer alternate efficacy. 

One notable weight loss drug is an appetite suppressant, Phentermine (Lomaira, Adipex-p). Phentermine works by stimulating the release of neurotransmitters that reduce appetite, leading to decreased food intake. However, they are prescribed for short-term use due to potential side effects and concerns about dependency.

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, is also available in a lower dose under the brand name Ozempic. While primarily prescribed for blood glucose control in type 2 diabetic patients, it is also prescribed off-label for weight management.

Liraglutide [4*] , another GLP-1 receptor agonist, by the brand name Saxenda is also indicated for weight management. However, due to its shorter duration of effectiveness compared to Wegovy, it is administered daily and is comparatively less effective than Wegovy. 

Another weight loss medication is Orlistat, a lipase inhibitor that prevents the absorption of dietary fats. By reducing the calorie intake from fats, it can contribute to weight loss. However, it may cause gastrointestinal side effects [5*] , so it’s important to have a low-fat diet while taking the medication.

Qsymia, which combines phentermine with topiramate [6*] , works by suppressing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness, providing a multifaceted approach to weight loss.

When selecting the most appropriate weight loss medication for you, your healthcare provider considers factors such as medical history, potential side effects, and individual response to treatment. While Wegovy has demonstrated effectiveness, the variety of medications available allows for personalized approaches to weight loss based on the unique needs and circumstances of each patient.

Book an appointment with a weight loss specialist at MEDvidi to get online prescriptions for the medications best suited for you.

Bottom Line

Wegovy presents a promising option to treat obesity and weight-related health problems. Getting Wegovy prescribed online has become a convenient avenue for those seeking a solution tailored to their unique needs. 

Before starting Wegovy, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. They will assess individual eligibility, provide personalized guidance, and monitor for any adverse reactions throughout the treatment. With the right approach and a commitment to lifestyle changes, Wegovy can be a valuable tool in achieving and maintaining significant weight loss.

FAQ

As of March 2024, Wegovy is more available now, though it depends on the doses, and some types are more abundant than others.
Weight loss medication typically starts showing results within 3 to 6 months when combined with diet and exercise, although individual responses can vary.
No, there is no over-the-counter (OTC) alternative to Wegovy. All alternative brand versions of the generic semaglutide or other generics are only available with a prescription.

There are various alternatives to Wegovy available in the market, and some are lower in price compared to Wegovy. However, the decision on which is better for you can only be determined by your healthcare provider.

Yes, you can obtain a Wegovy prescription online by undergoing an online consultation with a licensed medical provider. After a thorough evaluation, the provider will issue an online prescription for Wegovy if it is deemed the most suitable choice for you.
Once you obtain a valid prescription from your doctor, they can then forward it to an online pharmacy, enabling you to make a legal purchase.

Sources

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6 sources
  1. Wegovy
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  2. Developing Products for Weight Management Revision 1
    Source link
  3. Two-year effects of semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity: the STEP 5 trial
    Source link
  4. Liraglutide for weight management: a critical review of the evidence
    Source link
  5. Orlistat-associated adverse effects and drug interactions: a critical review
    Source link
  6. Efficacy and Safety of Phentermine/Topiramate in Adults with Overweight or Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
    Source link
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Written by:
Wafaa Amjad Dar
Pharm-D
Reviewer:
Dr. Bradley Noon
MD
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