Health
How the New Wegovy Pill Compares to the Shot
Health Points
- The Wegovy pill offers a needle-free alternative to the weekly injection, using the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but is absorbed differently by the body.
- The pill requires strict timing, must be taken daily, and comes with a higher chance of gastrointestinal side effects, while the shot is weekly, more flexible with timing, and may be safer for some breastfeeding individuals.
- The injection needs refrigeration before use, but the pill can be kept at room temperature, making it convenient for travel.
The new Wegovy pill, recently approved by the FDA, gives those seeking weight loss a daily, oral option instead of weekly injections. Both the pill and shot help people with obesity or overweight see significant results, but their day-to-day use and side effect profiles differ.
Because the pill travels through the digestive system, it must be taken on an empty stomach each morning, and there’s a waiting period before food, drinks, or other medications. The injection enters the bloodstream directly, so meal timing is not an issue, and it only needs to be given once a week.
“Wegovy may harm your unborn baby. You should stop using Wegovy two months before you plan to become pregnant,” the manufacturer advises.
Experts note that breastfeeding individuals should avoid the pill due to its absorption enhancer, but may discuss the shot with their healthcare provider, as its safety in breast milk isn’t fully known.
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