Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It causes joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement, and it most often affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Carrying extra body weight is one of the strongest risk factors for osteoarthritis, especially in the knees and hips. In recent years, Wegovy (semaglutide) - a once-weekly injection that supports weight loss - has gained attention not just for helping people lose weight, but also for the possible knock-on benefits weight loss can have on joint pain and mobility [1].
So, can Wegovy make a difference for osteoarthritis symptoms? Let’s take a closer look.
How does obesity link to osteoarthritis?
Research shows a clear link between obesity and osteoarthritis. [1] These links include:
1. Extra weight increases joint stress
Our joints absorb a large amount of force during daily movement. When you walk, every extra kilogram of body weight can add roughly four kilograms of additional pressure through the knees. Over time, that added strain can speed up cartilage wear and worsen pain and stiffness, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips [3].
2. Fat tissue can drive inflammation
It isn’t only the mechanical load that matters. Fat tissue is biologically active and releases inflammatory chemicals (sometimes called adipocytokines). These can contribute to low-grade inflammation across the body, which may play a role in joint damage, even in joints that aren’t weight-bearing, such as the hands. [1]
3. BMI can influence symptoms and progression
A higher Body Mass Index (BMI) is linked not only with a greater risk of developing osteoarthritis, but also with:
- more severe pain
- reduced mobility
- faster progression of joint changes
- lower quality of life
This is why weight management is often a key part of osteoarthritis treatment, alongside exercise and pain relief strategies. [1]
Why weight loss matters for osteoarthritis
Weight loss is one of the most effective non-surgical approaches for improving osteoarthritis symptoms, especially knee osteoarthritis.
Research shows that losing as little as 5–10% of body weight can lead to meaningful improvements in:
- joint pain
- stiffness
- physical function
- walking comfort
Losing weight reduces the load on joints and can help make movement easier, which may also support long-term mobility and independence. [3]
How Wegovy may help improve osteoarthritis
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It supports weight loss by:
- reducing appetite
- helping you feel fuller sooner
- slowing digestion
- making it easier to maintain a calorie deficit
In clinical trials, many people taking Wegovy achieved substantial weight loss, often greater than with lifestyle changes alone. [2]
Indirect joint benefits through weight loss
Because weight loss can reduce stress on joints, many people may notice that as they lose weight their osteoarthritis symptoms improve, including pain levels and ability to move around comfortably.
Possible anti-inflammatory effects
Wegovy has also been shown to reduce markers of inflammation such as C-reactive protein (CRP), largely as a result of weight loss. Some early research suggests GLP-1 medications may also influence inflammation at a cellular level, but more research is needed to confirm whether these effects provide additional joint benefits beyond weight reduction.
What does the research say about Wegovy and osteoarthritis?
Wegovy has strong evidence supporting weight loss. Large clinical trials show that participants using semaglutide lose around 15% of their body weight over approximately 68–72 weeks at the standard 2.4 mg dose, while more recent trials of the higher 7.2 mg dose have demonstrated greater average weight loss of roughly 19–21%, particularly when combined with diet and lifestyle interventions.
For osteoarthritis specifically, the best evidence still relates to weight loss itself. Studies suggest that losing around 10% of body weight can significantly reduce knee pain and improve daily function. Some individuals may see even larger improvements with greater weight loss. [1,3]
While Wegovy isn’t proven to directly treat osteoarthritis, the weight loss it supports may help to:
- reduce joint load
- improve mobility
- decrease pain during everyday activities
- support longer-term joint health
How to use Wegovy safely to help manage osteoarthritis
In the UK, Wegovy may be prescribed to adults who meet certain criteria, often based on BMI and health risks. Access may vary depending on whether treatment is through the NHS or a private provider, and a clinician will assess whether it’s appropriate for you.
Wegovy may be considered if you:
- have a BMI of 30 or higher, or
- have a BMI of 27 or higher and a weight-related condition (such as osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes)
- If you are from an Asian, Black African, African-Caribbean, or Middle Eastern background, the BMI thresholds are lowered by 2.5, because people from these groups can have health risks at lower BMIs.
A healthcare professional will check your medical history, discuss goals, and decide whether Wegovy is suitable as part of a wider weight management plan [4].
Wegovy works best alongside lifestyle changes
Medication is most effective when combined with sustainable habits. If you’re using Wegovy to support weight loss and joint health, the following approaches can make a significant difference. [1]
Exercise
Low-impact movement helps reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and improves strength and stability around the joint. Useful options include:
- swimming
- cycling
- walking
- strength training (especially for knee and hip support)
- physiotherapy-led exercise plans
Strengthening the muscles around the joints is one of the most effective ways to reduce OA pain and improve function.
Diet
A balanced diet can support weight loss and may reduce inflammation. Aim for:
- fruits and vegetables
- whole grains
- lean proteins
- healthy fats (including omega-3 sources like oily fish, walnuts, or flaxseed)
Common Wegovy side effects to be aware of
Like all medicines, Wegovy can have side effects. The most common are nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. These are usually mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Your healthcare provider may start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it to reduce side effects. Always let your pharmacist or doctor know if you experience persistent or severe symptoms. [4]
Wegovy and osteoarthritis medication interactions
Wegovy generally doesn’t interfere with most osteoarthritis treatments such as paracetamol, topical NSAID creams, or glucosamine.
However, if you regularly take oral NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen), you should discuss this with your GP or pharmacist, as both can sometimes irritate the stomach.
Long-term studies so far show Wegovy to be safe and well tolerated, even in people with chronic joint conditions.
Osteoarthritis and excess body weight are closely linked. Weight loss can significantly reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and support better quality of life.
Wegovy is an effective tool for helping people achieve sustained weight loss, which may indirectly ease osteoarthritis symptoms by reducing joint loading and supporting movement. While it isn’t a cure for osteoarthritis, it may be a helpful part of a broader management plan alongside exercise, diet, and medical guidance.
If you’re struggling with joint pain and weight management, speak to your pharmacist or GP to find out whether Wegovy could be suitable for you.
References
- Bliddal H, Leeds AR, Christensen R. Osteoarthritis, obesity and weight loss: evidence, hypotheses and horizons. Obesity Reviews. 2014.
- Wilding JPH et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. NEJM. 2021.
- Messier SP et al. Weight loss reduces knee-joint loads in overweight and obese older adults with knee osteoarthritis. Arthritis & Rheumatism. 2005.
- NICE Guidance: Semaglutide for managing overweight and obesity [TA875]. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, 2023.
