Wegovy aids fast weight loss. However, stopping it can lead to regaining most weight, unless you make lifestyle changes. Some opt for long-term Wegovy use to maintain their weight and health benefits. People often ask, how long do you take Wegovy for weight loss, to understand the commitment involved. Many people have reported significant success using Wegovy for weight loss.
There’s no magic weight loss pill. However, drugs like Wegovy, a GLP-1 medication, come close. Users often see quick, significant weight loss.
Wegovy, like all treatments, has downsides. It carries risks, too. You might wonder how quickly it works and if you can stop once you see results.
Wegovy is for weight loss in adults and adolescents aged 12 and above, considered obese. Also, adults overweight with at least one weight-related health issue can use it.
Wegovy is approved for overweight adults with heart disease. It lowers the risk of major heart events (MACE) like heart attack and stroke.
How long do you take wegovy for weight loss?
Wegovy is very effective for weight loss. It usually works within a couple of weeks. Within a few days, you will likely notice that your appetite has decreased. In one study participants saw significant weight loss on their first weigh-in (which took place 4 weeks after starting to take Wegovy).
Participants taking Wegovy on average lost more than 2 percent of their bodyweight after four weeks. Discuss with your healthcare provider to find out how long you take Wegovy for weight loss in your specific case. A person weighing 200 pounds can expect to lose 5 pounds within the first month. Wegovy for weight loss has become increasingly popular due to its effectiveness in clinical trials.
How fast does Wegovy work?
Wegovy dosages begin small (0.25mg weekly). Your prescriber will gradually increase the maintenance dose to 1.7 mg (or 2.4 mg) weekly. You may need to wait 8-12 weeks for weight loss to accelerate, since you will start with a lower dose. Wegovy is usually not taken at full maintenance dosage until the 17th week (about four months into treatment).
It may seem like a very long time. Even if you are looking to lose weight fast, it is important that you follow the dose escalation schedule for Wegovy. This will minimize side effects such as:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Unrest in the stomach
After 3 months, most people will lose at least 5 percent of their bodyweight. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you are doing something wrong if you do not lose weight. If your body is not responding to Wegovy then you should talk to your doctor about switching weight loss methods.
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How long can you take Wegovy?
Dr. Sonal Chaudhry, an endocrinologist and assistant at the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism of New York University, says that to maintain weight, most people must continue to take weight-loss medications such as Wegovy.
She said that if the medication was stopped, it would usually result in a significant weight gain. In my experience, medication-based weight loss treatments are long-term.
She said that it really depends on each individual.
Semaglutide has been used as a diabetes medicine for more than 15 years. Many healthcare professionals feel comfortable prescribing this medication for long-term use, due to its proven track record.
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The pros of staying on Wegovy long term
You can maintain your weight by staying on Wegovy for a long time. You may gain some or all of the weight that you lost if you stop taking Wegovy. In one study people who stopped Wegovy treatment after 16 months gained back about two thirds of their lost weight in a year. Unfortunately, the blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels also returned to baseline.
Many people stay on Wegovy for a long time to avoid this. This is not just to prevent weight gain, but also to maintain Wegovy’s health benefits. The benefits of better cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure are many.
- Longer life
- Feel better?
- Reduce heart disease risk
- Lower stroke risk
As with any medication, you should weigh the pros and cons individually. It may be worth it to continue using Wegovy if gaining weight puts you at risk of serious health conditions. It’s also important to know the cons.
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The cons of staying on Wegovy long term
Dr. Chaudhry noted that Wegovy was a relatively young medication. She said that there are no long-term studies to determine the true complications. “But we know there are long-term problems related to diabetes and obesity.” It’s an uncertain decision.
Take a look at some of the concerns that could arise if you take Wegovy for a long time:
- Thyroid cancer
- Mental health issues, including thoughts of suicide
- Gallbladder Problems
- Pancreas disease
- Paralyzed stomach
- Diabetes and eye problems
Wegovy’s relatively recent development may lead to other side effects as scientists gather more information.
Wegovy can be expensive, even if you don’t consider the side effects. You will spend over $16,000 a year if you pay out-of-pocket. You must weigh up the pros and cons and decide for yourself what is best for you.
When is the best time to stop Wegovy?
You may want to consider stopping Wegovy after 16 months. This is when weight loss usually slows down or stops. Some people decide to taper off Wegovy. They gradually decrease the dosage before stopping completely.
It doesn’t matter how or when you decide to stop taking Wegovy. What matters is that you incorporate healthy lifestyle practices. Maintaining your desired weight can be achieved by eating nutritious foods, exercising, and managing your stress.
You might also consider switching to another medication, such as Mounjaro or Zepbound (tirzepatide).
Dr. Chaudry stated that these medications work differently from Wegovy and may be more effective for some people. If Wegovy is no longer working for you but you still wish to lose weight, then this strategy could help you achieve your goal. These medications, like Wegovy must be taken indefinitely to maintain the weight loss.
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Conclusion
Wegovy (semaglutide) helps with weight loss. How long do you take Wegovy for weight loss typically varies depending on individual response and goals? People can take it until they reach their desired weight or as long as it’s effective and well-tolerated. The duration varies. It depends on goals and individual responses. Studies show it can sustain weight loss. Using Wegovy needs a healthcare provider’s guidance. They monitor benefits and side effects. Deciding to stop or continue should always be a medical decision. This is based on the patient’s progress and health. Studies have shown that Wegovy for weight loss can be an effective part of a comprehensive weight management plan.
