TruGovy for Weight-loss
When a weight-loss medication, popular with international celebrities, was given the green light by Medsafe in New Zealand this month, TruYou was on board.
Named Wegovy in New Zealand, it is the higher dose version of Ozempic which has seen positive results for celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and Sharon Osbourne. It was approved by Medsafe for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) or overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m²) with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension or dyslipidemia.
The medication requires prescription under normal prescribing regulations, with assessment of BMI criteria and comorbidities, plus ongoing monitoring for side-effects.
TruYou owner and nurse Chrissie Dawkins is an approved provider of the medication under the guidance of Dr Nadja Haub and, along with fellow TruYou nurse Kellie O’Keeffe, will be offering one-on-one support to those who need it along their journey.
Chrissie herself will be taking the medication, which entails a weekly injection and explains why she’s happy to both utilise and represent Wegovy:
“I’ve been struggling with my weight realistically for the last few years and, because I’ve been talking about it lately, my phone has heard because on my Facebook feed is just a plethora of weight loss pills with the most random of before and after photos that I don’t know if they’re real or AI-generated. Some of them are so drastic and the nurse in me is sceptical. I can see how others get overwhelmed and/or duped!”
She began looking into options and discovered that Wegovy, based on Ozempic, currently taking Hollywood by storm, had just been released in New Zealand. After further research, as, with most medications, there are side-effects, she was happy to go on a Wegovy weight-loss journey and, not only provide the medication, but support others through TruYou Health & Wellbeing. However, due to regulations, the brand name Wegovy is not permitted to be used for advertising purposes so under TruYou, Chrissie has renamed it TruGovy.
“I’m going to start taking TruGovy next week as soon as the first batch arrives and we are keen to join you on the journey. So if you’d like to come and have a consultation and chat about it and have some support along your journey we’d love to be that support.”
After an initial $50 consultation where your blood pressure will be taken, BMI, and medications discussed to ensure no contra-indications, if it’s the right fit, a month’s supply of the product can be taken away on the same day for $550. Subsequent monthly appointments will involve a $25 consultation fee. An after-pay payment plan is available through TruYou.
“You can contact us at any time for support or with queries. Plus, it’s quicker and easier to get appointments than with a doctor,” Chrissie adds.
Follow Chrissie’s journey where she will be giving us weekly updates on the TruYou Facebook page.
FAQ's
What is Wegovy?
WEGOVY (semaglutide) injection is an injectable prescription medicine used with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.
How does Wegovy work?
Wegovy works by reducing appetite and slowing down the movement of food through your body. It acts on areas of the brain which are involved in regulating your appetite and increases feelings of fullness, reduces feelings of hunger and reduces the preference for high-fat foods. It also reduces blood sugar by promoting the release of insulin when blood sugar levels are high.
How long has Wegovy been around?
Wegovy has been available since its approval in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related medical condition. While the active ingredient, semaglutide, was first approved in 2017 for diabetes under the brand name Ozempic, Wegovy specifically focuses on weight loss and was approved later.
What's the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Ozempic and Wegovy are different brand names for the same injectable drug, semaglutide. The difference is that Wegovy is approved to manage weight in adults and kids 12 and up who have obesity. Ozempic is approved to lower blood sugar when you have type 2 diabetes.
How is Wegovy supplied (dosage forms)?
Wegovy is available in the following dosage forms that are injected under the skin.
0.25 mg solution for injection, prefilled pens
0.5 mg solution for injection, prefilled pens
1 mg solution for injection, prefilled pens
1.7 mg solution for injection, prefilled pens
2.4 mg solution for injection, prefilled pens
Where do you inject Wegovy?
Patients will inject their dose of Wegovy under the skin in the upper arms, stomach (keep two inches away from belly button), or upper legs (front of thighs).
How much weight can you lose on Wegovy in three months?
Patients tend to lose around six per cent body weight after three months. Additional research suggests people lose about 11 per cent of body weight after six months.
What are the side-effects?
Common side effects of Wegovy may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach (abdomen) pain, headache, tiredness (fatigue), upset stomach, dizziness, feeling bloated, belching, low blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and runny nose or sore throat.
Can Wegovy cause permanent damage?
Possible problems with long-term use include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and kidney damage. The risk of serious problems from Wegovy treatment is low based on clinical trials. Before starting treatment, discuss the possible risks with your provider.
Is Wegovy safer than Ozempic?
Side-effects may be more common with Wegovy because doctors typically prescribe it at a slightly higher dosage than Ozempic.
Can you stop Wegovy cold turkey?
If you're considering stopping Ozempic or Wegovy, it's important to do so under the guidance of your provider. They may recommend tapering down your dosage gradually to help your body adjust. Stopping suddenly can cause more noticeable side-effects, so a gradual reduction is often the safer approach.
Can you drink alcohol on Wegovy?
While there's no direct interaction listed between alcohol and Wegovy, it's generally recommended to limit or avoid alcohol while taking this medication due to potential side- effects and interactions. Alcohol can worsen some of the common side-effects of Wegovy, like nausea and vomiting, and it might also interfere with the medication's effects on appetite and digestion.
How should I store Wegovy?
Wegovy injection liquid should be stored in its original carton in the refrigerator, between 2C-8C). Unused Wegovy can be stored until the expiration date.
If needed (as long as the cap has not been removed), Wegovy can be stored at higher temperatures, between 8C-30C), for up to 28 days.
Store in a place that is not exposed to direct light and heat. Do not freeze.