What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
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Product Details
Description
Wegovy (semaglutide) is an injectable medication that is used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise to help manage chronic weight in adults who are:
- Obese (body mass index = 30 kg/m2) OR
- Overweight (body mass index = 27 kg/m2) with at least one weight-related condition (e.g., high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol)
Wegovy is classified as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist.
Fact Table
Formula
C187H291N45O59
License
EU EMA, US FDA
Bioavailability
89%
Legal status
Rx-Only
Chemical Name
Semaglutide
Elimination half-life
7 days
Dosage (Strength)
0.5mg pen of 0.5mg/0.5ml, 0.25mg pens of 0.25mg/0.5ml, 1mg pens of 1mg/0.5ml, 1.7mg pens of 1.7mg/0.75ml, 2.4mg pens of 2.4mg/0.75ml
Pregnancy
Not Recommended
Brands
Wegovy
Protein binding
More than 99%
PubChem CID
56843331
MedlinePlus
a618008
ChEBI
167574
ATC code
A10BJ06
DrugBank
DB13928
KEGG
D10025
Routes of administration
Subcutaneous
Directions
Wegovy is available in a pre-filled pen that delivers a single-dose of either 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, or 2.4 mg.
Wegovy should be injected subcutaneously into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm one time a week, on the same day each week. Wegovy may be administered with or without food. If you have any questions about using Wegovy, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
The typical starting dose is 0.25 mg one time a week for 4 weeks. Your doctor may increase your dose every 4 weeks until you reach 2.4 mg once weekly.
The maintenance dose is 2.4 mg one time a week.
If you have type 2 diabetes, be sure to check your blood sugar before starting and during treatment with Wegovy.
Ingredients
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Wegovy.
Contraindications
Do not use Wegovy if you or any member of your family have had a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Do not use Wegovy if you are allergic to semaglutide or any of its other ingredients.
Cautions
WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
- In rodents, semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether WEGOVYTM causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined.
- WEGOVYTM is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors.
- Before you start treatment with Wegovy, tell your doctor:
- About all the medications you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Do not take Wegovy with other GLP-1 agonists.
- About your allergies
- About your health conditions, including:
- Kidney problems
- Pancreatic problems
- Type 2 diabetes
- History of diabetic retinopathy
- Have or have had mental health problems
- If you are pregnant or have plans to become pregnant
- If you are breastfeeding or have plans to breastfeed
- Wegovy should be stored in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Discard the pen after you use it.
Side Effects
Wegovy can cause side effects. The most common include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, headache, tiredness, dizziness, indigestion, bloating, belching, flatulence, stomach flu, and heartburn.
These are not all of the potential side effects that can occur with the use of Wegovy. Call your doctor right away if you develop negative or persistent side effects.
References:
- Wegovy. Plainsboro, NJ: Novo Nordisk Inc.; 2021.
- Once-Weekly Wegovy semaglutide injection. Accessed February 9, 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wegovy (Semaglutide)
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is an injectable prescription medicine that may help adults and children aged =12 years with obesity or some adults with excess weight who also have weight-related medical problems to lose weight and keep it off.
How does Wegovy work?
Wegovy works by mimicking a hormone in the intestines called GLP-1 that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake.
How much weight have adults lost taking Wegovy?
The amount of weight loss varies among individuals and depends on factors such as diet, exercise, and adherence to the medication regimen.
What are the most common side effects of Wegovy?
The most common side effects of Wegovy include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal (stomach) pain, headache, fatigue, dyspepsia (indigestion), dizziness, abdominal distension, eructation (belching), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in patients with type 2 diabetes, flatulence (gas buildup), gastroenteritis (an intestinal infection), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (a type of digestive disorder).
Can I travel with Wegovy?
Yes, you can travel with Wegovy. However, it’s important to store it properly and follow the storage instructions.
What should I do if my pen isn’t working correctly?
If your pen isn’t working correctly, you should contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for assistance.
How often is Wegovy taken?
Wegovy is typically taken once a week.
Do I have to take Wegovy on the same day every week?
It’s recommended to take Wegovy on the same day each week, but you can change the day or time if needed.
What should I do if I have missed a dose of Wegovy?
If you miss a dose of Wegovy, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
How much does Wegovy cost?
The cost of Wegovy can vary depending on your insurance coverage and pharmacy. There are also savings programs available to help reduce the cost.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 13641
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