If you’ve been exploring medically supervised solutions for weight loss, chances are you’ve come across Wegovy. Now prescribed by MiraMed, Wegovy is a weight loss medication helping people achieve sustainable results, especially when paired with healthy lifestyle choices. At MiraMed and Day Spa, we offer guidance for clients looking to begin their Wegovy journey, and in this blog, we’ll explain what it is, how it works, and what you can expect along the way.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is an FDA-approved prescription injection used for chronic weight management. The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide, which mimics a natural hormone in your body that regulates appetite and food intake.

Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, semaglutide was found to help patients lose a significant amount of weight. Wegovy is a higher-dose version tailored specifically for weight loss purposes.

How Does Wegovy Work?

Wegovy is a once-weekly injection that works by mimicking GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) — a hormone that signals your brain that you’re full. This results in:

  • Reduced appetite
  • Decreased food intake
  • Slower gastric emptying (so you feel full longer)

Over time, this supports consistent and controlled weight loss while helping break unhealthy eating patterns.

Are You a Candidate for Wegovy? MiraMed’s Prescription Qualifications

At MiraMed and Day Spa, your health and safety come first. That’s why we follow strict medical guidelines to determine if Wegovy is right for you. Before starting treatment, we conduct a thorough health evaluation to ensure you’re an ideal candidate.

Who Qualifies for Wegovy?

To be eligible for a Wegovy prescription, you must meet one of the following criteria:

  • BMI of 30 or higher (obesity)
    OR

  • BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition, such as:

    • High blood pressure

    • High cholesterol

    • Sleep apnea

    • Prediabetes or insulin resistance

Required Lab Work

Before prescribing Wegovy, we require a baseline blood panel to assess your overall health and ensure it’s safe to proceed with treatment. The required labs include:

  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

  • Fasting Lipid Panel

  • Hemoglobin A1C

You can have this panel completed by your primary care provider or lab of choice. Or, we can draw your labs in-house at MiraMed for $200 — a convenient option for those ready to get started quickly.

How Much Weight Can You Lose on Wegovy? What the Studies Show

Clinical studies — including one featured on the Wegovy® official website— show that Wegovy can lead to significant weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. In a 68-week medical study of 1,961 adults with obesity or overweight (and at least one weight-related condition), participants taking the prescription lost an average of 15% of their body weight — about 35 pounds. Those who received a placebo only lost about 6 pounds. The average starting weight in the study was 232 lbs, and individuals with diabetes were excluded.

Here’s a quick look at the results:

  • 83% lost at least 5% of their body weight
  • 66% lost 10% or more
  • 48% lost 15% or more
  • About 1 in 3 lost 20% or more (roughly 46 pounds)

What to Expect Over Time

Wegovy is designed for gradual, sustainable weight loss. Here’s a general timeline of how progress may look:

  • Weeks 1–4: You administer the loading dose of 0.25mg weekly, appetite begins to decrease, and early weight loss begins.
  • Months 2–3: Doses increase, appetite noticeably decreases, and weight loss continues.
  • Months 4–6: Steady weight loss progresses as your body adapts
  • By 1 Year: Many patients reach or come close to their target weight

Keep in mind, results vary depending on factors like consistency, diet, exercise habits, and individual metabolism. At MiraMed and Day Spa, we create custom weight loss plans using this proven medication, paired with wellness support to help you succeed safely and effectively.

Common Side Effects of Wegovy

Like any medication, Wegovy can cause side effects, though many people tolerate it well. Common side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness

These typically lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. Nausea can also be reduced by taking Zofran, an anti-nausea medication that MiraMed can happily prescribe for your comfort. To reduce further discomfort:

  • Eat smaller meals
  • Avoid high-fat or fried foods
  • Stay hydrated
  • Take your injection on the same day each week

Always report any severe or prolonged side effects to your healthcare provider.

Tips for Managing Weight Loss with Wegovy

To maximize the benefits of Wegovy, we recommend following these expert tips:

  1. Track Your Progress: Use apps or journals to track food intake, physical activity, and weight changes.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen side effects like nausea.
  3. Stick to a Schedule: Take your weekly injection at the same time each week.
  4. Prioritize Sleep: Poor sleep can increase hunger hormones and impact weight loss.
  5. Be Patient: This is a long-term commitment. Results take time, but they are sustainable.

Combining Wegovy with a Healthy Diet and Exercise

Wegovy works best when paired with a structured weight loss plan. At MiraMed and Day Spa, we provide personalized wellness support to help you optimize your routine.

Nutrition Tips:

  • Focus on lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats.
  • Avoid sugary snacks and processed foods.
  • Eat mindfully and slowly to allow time for satiety cues to register.

Exercise Recommendations:

  • Start with 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week (e.g., brisk walking or swimming).
  • Add in resistance training 2–3 times a week for improved metabolism and strength.
  • Choose activities you enjoy to build a sustainable routine.

What to Expect from a Wegovy Journey

From your first injection to months into the program, you’ll notice both physical and emotional changes. Here’s what a typical experience includes:

  • Reduced cravings and improved portion control
  • Gradual, sustainable weight loss
  • Improved confidence and motivation
  • Reduced risk of chronic illnesses associated with obesity

Regular check-ins with a medical professional ensure the plan stays effective and safe. At MiraMed and Day Spa, we’re with you every step of the way.

Ready to Begin Your Wegovy Journey?

If you’re ready to take the first step toward sustainable weight loss, MiraMed and Day Spa is here to help. Our team offers guided treatment plans using Wegovy and holistic wellness support tailored to your needs.

📍 Visit Us: MiraMed and Day Spa, 1921 State St Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

📞 Call Us Today: 805-770-2461

🌐 Visit Our Website: www.miramedanddayspa.com