With the same active ingredient as other drugs already released in Brazil, Ozempic and Rybelsus, Wegovy, which is an injection of Semaglutide, was recently released for commercialization in Brazil under medical prescription.
What is semaglutide injection?
Semaglutide injection, the active ingredient in Wegovy® 2.4 mg, is an injectable prescription drug used for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (overweight) (BMI ≥27), in which they also have weight-related medical problems to help them lose weight and maintain lost weight.
Semaglutide is an antidiabetic medicine indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, in which it stimulates the production of insulin by the pancreas and decreases the production of glucagon, which helps to reduce glucose levels in the bloodstream when associated with a healthy diet and regular exercise, as the manufacturer itself indicates. Its well-characterized effects in the body are mediated by activation of the GLP-1 receptor, so that it acts by reducing energy intake via induction of sensations of satiety, satisfaction and the reduction of the feeling of hunger
Thus, Wegovy contains semaglutide in the form of an injectable pen, and when properly prescribed by the doctor, should be used in applications under the skin of the belly, thigh or upper arm.
The release of Anvisa
The National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) approved, for the first time, the commercialization of the drug Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg), which is an injection of Semaglutide with indication to treat obesity associated with comorbidities, that is, that presents associated diseases. The approval is the result of clinical studies involving more than 4,500 people worldwide, which demonstrated an average reduction of 17% in weight in patients in about 17 months. As commented, this is due to its mechanism of action in the control of appetite and satiety.
However, this same study and the manufacturer itself point out the importance of the association of lifestyle changes such as improvement in diet, physical exercise and sleep routine in order to achieve the goal sought with treatment. In addition, it is necessary to emphasize that the prescription is restricted to physicians and the vast majority of studies also point out that nutritional interventions are necessary during treatment, as well as in the post-intervention to maintain lost weight.
How much does it cost and when can I buy?
There is still no prediction of values or when the medication will be available in pharmacies for commercialization for these purposes. The fact is that, unfortunately, most of the population is often priced unaffordable, but this is an important step towards the evolution of obesity treatment.
References
New England Journal of Medicine Scientific Study: “Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity“
Science Play Portal: Tools to Optimize Weight Loss
