Semaglutide Injection (Wegovy / Ozempic)

Semaglutide injection remains one of the most clinically important weight loss medications in history. Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) was FDA-approved for chronic weight management on June 4, 2021 -- the first dedicated GLP-1 medication approved for weight loss in adults, later extended to adolescents aged 12+. Ozempic (semaglutide 1-2 mg) is the same molecule for type 2 diabetes, frequently prescribed off-label for weight management. In STEP 1 (N=1,961, 68 weeks), patients on Wegovy 2.4 mg lost an average of 14.9% of body weight versus 2.4% placebo. Nearly 70% achieved 10%+ weight loss; 50.5% lost 15%+. Most significantly, the SELECT cardiovascular outcomes trial (N=17,604, 104 weeks) demonstrated a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in non-diabetic overweight/obese patients with established CVD -- the first proof that a weight loss drug reduces heart attack and stroke risk. This led to FDA label expansion in March 2024. In SURMOUNT-5, head-to-head vs tirzepatide, Wegovy delivered 13.7% vs tirzepatide 20.2%. Side effects: nausea (44%), diarrhea (30%), vomiting (24%), constipation (24%). FDA added gastroparesis warning 2023. Cost: List price ~$1,350/month. Self-pay $149/month (March 2026). Savings card: $25/month. Medicare: $50/month from July 2026.