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What is in Wegovy that causes weight loss?
Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, is a medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of obesity. This injectable medication works by mimicking the effects of a hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. But what exactly is in Wegovy that causes weight loss?
How Wegovy Works
The primary active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide, which is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. This means that it binds to and activates the GLP-1 receptors in the body, leading to several key effects that contribute to weight loss:
1. Reduced Appetite: Semaglutide helps to suppress appetite by slowing down the emptying of the stomach, which leads to a feeling of fullness and reduced calorie intake.
2. Decreased Hunger: The medication also reduces the sensation of hunger, making it easier for individuals to stick to a calorie-restricted diet.
3. Increased Energy Expenditure: Semaglutide has been shown to increase metabolic rate and energy expenditure, which can further contribute to weight loss.
4. Improved Blood Sugar Control: By regulating blood sugar levels, Wegovy can help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes, which is a common complication of obesity.
Other Ingredients in Wegovy
While semaglutide is the key ingredient responsible for Wegovy’s weight loss effects, the medication also contains other inactive ingredients that help to stabilize and deliver the active ingredient. These include:
1. Mannitol: A sugar alcohol that helps to stabilize the semaglutide and ensure its proper delivery.
2. Sodium chloride: A common salt that helps to maintain the medication’s pH balance.
3. Lactic acid: A natural acid that helps to stabilize the medication and prevent it from degrading.
4. Human albumin: A protein that helps to bind the semaglutide and ensure its proper delivery.
Conclusion
In summary, what is in Wegovy that causes weight loss is the active ingredient semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps to reduce appetite, decrease hunger, increase energy expenditure, and improve blood sugar control. While other inactive ingredients are present to stabilize and deliver the active ingredient, it is semaglutide that is primarily responsible for the weight loss effects observed in patients taking Wegovy.
