The new Wegovy pill has been approved, and interest is high among people who already use weight-loss medications.
Before making the switch from injection to tablet, there are several factors patients should be aware of and discuss with their doctor, according to The Sun.
It is the same medication
The Wegovy pill contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in the Wegovy injection.
This means it is the same medication, but in a different form with its own usage requirements.
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The morning routine
The tablet must be taken every morning on an empty stomach with up to 120 ml of plain water.
Patients must then wait 30 minutes before eating, drinking anything other than water, or taking other medication.
You do not start from scratch
People who are already using an injectable GLP-1 treatment do not need to begin again from the very start.
Healthcare professionals will assess the current treatment and determine an appropriate starting dose for the tablet form.
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Appetite may change temporarily
Some patients may experience increased hunger or more frequent food cravings or thoughts about food during the transition period.
This is described as a temporary physiological response that usually subsides after a few weeks.
Digestive issues are more common
The side effects are generally similar to those seen with the injection, but digestive problems occur more frequently with the tablet version.
Symptoms may include heartburn, bloating, or nausea.
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Injection and pill cannot be used together
Patients cannot use injectable GLP-1 medications and the Wegovy pill at the same time.
The transition requires the previous treatment to be discontinued.
There is usually a gap between treatments
According to the guidance, there is typically a seven-day interval between the last injection and the first tablet.
The exact schedule will be determined by the treating clinician.
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The treatment cycle changes
The injectable treatment follows a 28-day cycle, while the Wegovy pill is supplied in packs of 30 tablets and therefore follows a 30-day cycle.
The pills do not require refrigeration
Unlike the injectable products, the Wegovy pill can be stored at room temperature.
This may make storage and travel more convenient.
Birth control pills should be discussed with a healthcare provider
People who use oral contraceptives should speak with their doctor or clinician before switching to the Wegovy pill, as absorption may be affected during the first few weeks.
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The switch should be made with professional guidance
A doctor or pharmacist should always be consulted before changing from the injection to the tablet.
Treatment history, overall health, and previous results should all be assessed before a decision is made.
It is possible to switch back
If the Wegovy pill does not prove to be the right solution, patients can, according to the guidance, switch back to an injectable treatment in consultation with their healthcare provider.