WEGOVY® 0.5mg is part of a titration schedule designed to gradually adjust the body to semaglutide, minimizing gastrointestinal side effects. This dosage helps patients transition from 0.25mg to higher therapeutic doses for long-term weight management.
- Active ingredient: Semaglutide 0.5 mg per 0.5 mL
- Formulation: Solution for subcutaneous injection
- Device: FlexTouch® pre-filled pen (single-use)
- Administration: Once weekly
- Therapeutic class: GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Color-coded packaging: Orange and white (for easy identification in titration)
WEGOVY® FLEXTOUCH® 0.5mg – Unique Technology
WEGOVY® is delivered via the FlexTouch® injection pen, which is engineered for user safety, comfort, and convenience. The pen hides the needle, provides automatic dose delivery, and includes visual indicators to confirm correct use.
- Hidden needle before and after injection for reduced anxiety
- Preset dose eliminates risk of dose adjustment errors
- Automatic injection and click-based feedback system
- Visual confirmation: Yellow bar indicates complete dose delivery
- Ergonomic design suitable for self-injection
- Compatible with NovoFine® Plus needles
WEGOVY® FLEXTOUCH® 0.5mg – Indications
This dose is indicated for weight management in adults with obesity or those who are overweight with weight-related health issues. It must be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
- BMI ≥30 kg/m² (obese patients)
- BMI ≥27 kg/m² with at least one comorbidity (e.g., hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes)
- Not indicated for patients under 18 years old
- Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Part of a long-term, medically supervised weight-loss program
WEGOVY® FLEXTOUCH® 0.5mg – Dosage and Administration
The 0.5mg dose is the second step in the standard titration regimen, following four weeks at 0.25mg. It helps minimize adverse effects as patients build tolerance to semaglutide before reaching higher doses.
- Week 5–8 dose in a 5-step titration program
- Administer once per week, on the same day each week
- Injection sites: Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm (rotate sites)
- Can be injected with or without food
- If a dose is missed and it’s within 5 days, take it immediately; otherwise, skip the dose
WEGOVY® FLEXTOUCH® 0.5mg – Side Effects and Precautions
Like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, semaglutide may cause gastrointestinal symptoms and other systemic effects. Careful dose escalation helps reduce incidence, but monitoring is advised, especially in diabetic patients or those with thyroid risks.
- Very common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, headache
- Common: Injection site reactions, fatigue, dizziness, gastritis, reflux
- Uncommon/Rare: Pancreatitis, gallstones, allergic reactions, hair loss
- May cause hypoglycemia when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas
- Contraindicated in patients with:
- Personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2 (MEN 2)
- Known hypersensitivity to semaglutide
WEGOVY® FLEXTOUCH® 0.5mg – Clinical Studies and Real-World Outcomes
Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide significantly reduces body weight when combined with lifestyle changes. The 0.5mg step plays a key role in minimizing dropout rates by easing patients into higher therapeutic doses.
- Used in pivotal STEP clinical trials
- Demonstrated sustained weight loss when titrated properly
- Contributed to 15–17% average weight reduction at full dose
- Patients reported improved appetite control and reduced cravings
- Long-term improvements in HbA1c, cholesterol, and blood pressure noted
WEGOVY® FLEXTOUCH® 0.5mg – Drug Interactions
Semaglutide may slow gastric emptying, which can affect absorption of other oral medications. Caution is advised when using it alongside insulin, sulfonylureas, or medications with a narrow therapeutic window.
- May increase risk of hypoglycemia with:
- Insulin
- Sulfonylureas
- Delays gastric emptying, which may affect:
- Oral antibiotics
- Hormonal contraceptives
- Thyroid medications
- Discuss all medications and supplements with a healthcare provider
WEGOVY® FLEXTOUCH® 0.5mg – Post-Treatment Care
After stopping treatment, patients may regain weight if lifestyle habits are not maintained. Ongoing support with nutrition and activity is essential, and any health changes should be discussed with a doctor.
- Continue diet and exercise programs even after stopping
- Monitor for return of appetite and weight gain
- Inform physician if planning pregnancy or experiencing thyroid symptoms
- Used pens should be discarded in a sharps container
- Do not reuse needles or share pens between patients