Wegovy 0.25 mg

Wegovy Price at Clalit
Wegovy Price at Clalit

Wegovy 0.25 mg – Adjustment Phase

Active Ingredient: Semaglutide Dosage: 0.25 mg Frequency: One injection per week (on the same fixed day) Duration of treatment at this dosage: First month (4 weeks) Group: GLP-1 receptor agonists

What is the 0.25 mg dosage and what is its purpose?

Wegovy 0.25 mg is the initial dosage (Initiation Dose) in the weight loss treatment series. It is important to understand a critical point: the purpose of this dosage is not yet massive weight loss, but rather preparing the body. The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics a natural hormone in the body that induces a feeling of fullness and slows gastric emptying. If we were to start with a higher dosage, the body would react with severe side effects (vomiting and intense abdominal pain). The 0.25 mg dosage is the gentle "starting shot" that allows the digestive system to adapt to the presence of the medication.

How does it work in practice? (Mechanism of Action)

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At this stage, the medication begins to perform two main actions:

  1. Signaling to the brain: It acts on the hunger and satiety centers in the brain (the hypothalamus) and begins to reduce the "background noise" and intrusive thoughts about food.

  2. Slowing gastric emptying: It causes food to remain in the stomach longer, leading to a quicker feeling of fullness even with smaller meals.

Method of Use: Weekly Injection Pen

Unlike pills, Wegovy is administered via subcutaneous injection. The 0.25 mg pen usually comes as a pen containing 4 doses (for one month), or as single-use pens (depending on marketing in the country at that time).

Injection Instructions:

  • Location: The injection should be given in the abdominal area (away from the navel), in the front thigh, or in the upper arm. It is recommended to vary the injection site each week.

  • Timing: Choose a fixed day of the week (for example, every Friday morning) and a convenient time. It can be injected with or without food.

  • Storage: Before use, it should be stored in the refrigerator (2-8 degrees Celsius). After opening, it can be kept at room temperature (up to 30 degrees) for several weeks (check the specific leaflet), but many prefer to return it to the refrigerator.

Side Effects in the Initial Phase

The first month is the most prone to gastrointestinal side effects, as the body encounters the substance for the first time.

  • Very common: Nausea (especially the morning after the injection), diarrhea or constipation, mild fatigue.

  • How to cope?

    • Eat very small and scattered meals throughout the day.

    • Avoid fried foods, very oily or heavily spiced foods.

    • Drink plenty of water (at least 2 liters a day) to prevent dehydration in case of diarrhea/vomiting.

What to expect at the end of the first month?

Many patients experience a slight weight loss already in this month, primarily due to reduced appetite. However, there are patients who do not feel a significant change in weight at this dosage – and this is perfectly normal. The full therapeutic effect is achieved at higher dosages. At the end of 4 injections of 0.25 mg, and without any unusual side effects, it is customary to move on to the next stage.

> Legal Disclaimer: The information above is provided as a public service and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment with Wegovy requires a doctor's prescription and close monitoring. Do not change the dosage on your own.