Wegovy & common drug interactions

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Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription medication used to support weight loss in individuals with obesity or weight-related health conditions. While it’s generally safe to use alongside other medications, certain drug combinations may impact its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

At Phlo Clinic, our clinical team review each individual consultation to make sure the treatment being prescribed is suitable, safe and effective for you. In this article, we’ll highlight common drug interactions with Wegovy and offer practical guidance to help you use it safely as part of your overall treatment plan.

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How to check if you can take Wegovy with other drugs

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• Consult Your Doctor or Pharmacist
  Your healthcare provider is your best resource for understanding how Wegovy might interact with other treatments you're using. Be open about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. At Phlo Clinic, our online consultation will ask you about your current medication and schedule so we can ensure the treatment is suitable and effective for you.

• Monitor for Side Effects
  If you're starting Wegovy while on other medications, keep track of any unusual side effects. This can help us make informed decisions about your ongoing treatment plan.

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Common drugs & Wegovy interactions

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Wegovy & antibiotics

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Antibiotics, in general, don't have significant interactions with Wegovy. However, some antibiotics may affect the absorption of Wegovy, which could potentially reduce its effectiveness. For example, antibiotics that target gastrointestinal bacteria may influence how your body processes Wegovy.

• What You Should Know: When taking antibiotics, make sure you follow the instructions (e.g. with or without food), and always complete the course of antibiotics as prescribed. Speak to your healthcare provider if you're on long-term antibiotics, as they might recommend a different approach.

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Wegovy & antidepressants

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Many antidepressants, especially SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), are commonly used alongside Wegovy. While there’s no major direct interaction, both types of medications can cause gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, which may be more pronounced when used together.

• What You Should Know: If you experience increased nausea, dizziness, or fatigue, notify your healthcare provider. They may adjust your medications or recommend strategies to manage these side effects.

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Wegovy & ibuprofen

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Ibuprofen is a common painkiller and anti-inflammatory, but when taken alongside Wegovy, it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or stomach irritation. Though there's no serious interaction, it’s always wise to use painkillers sparingly.

• What You Should Know: If you need to take ibuprofen regularly, it may be helpful to take it with food to reduce stomach irritation. If you experience any new or worsening side effects, speak to your healthcare provider.

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Wegovy, Metformin and other diabetes medications

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For individuals with type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is sometimes used alongside other diabetes medications, such as metformin. While there is no significant adverse interaction, both Wegovy and metformin can lower blood sugar levels, so it’s important to monitor your blood glucose regularly to avoid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

• What You Should Know: You might need an adjustment in the dose of your diabetes medication if your blood sugar levels become too low. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Wegovy.

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Can you take steroids with Wegovy?

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Steroids (like prednisolone) can interfere with the weight loss effects of Wegovy, as they tend to increase appetite and may cause fluid retention. In some cases, they may also worsen gastrointestinal issues like nausea or bloating, both common side effects of Wegovy.

• What You Should Know: If you need to take steroids, consult your doctor about how to manage both treatments. They may advise you on managing side effects or recommend an alternative to steroids if long-term use is required.

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Is Wegovy Insulin?

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No, Wegovy is not insulin. While both Wegovy and insulin help manage blood sugar levels, they work in different ways. Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a hormone that regulates both appetite and insulin secretion. Insulin, on the other hand, directly helps your body absorb and use glucose.

• What You Should Know: If you're looking to manage your blood sugar or insulin levels, Wegovy can assist with weight management and blood sugar regulation, but it is not a substitute for insulin therapy. If you're already on insulin for type 2 diabetes, ensure you notify and discuss with your healthcare provider before commencing any weight loss treatments.

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Does Wegovy affect birth control pills

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Currently, there is no evidence suggesting that Wegovy interferes with the effectiveness of birth control pills. However, as with any medication, if you're concerned about how it might impact your birth control, consult your doctor to discuss any potential risks.

• What You Should Know: If you’re starting Wegovy and using birth control, it’s always a good idea to let your doctor know. They may recommend using backup contraception if you’re concerned about how the medication might affect absorption.

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While Wegovy is generally safe to take with other medications, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider of any medication you are taking, especially with certain antibiotics, antidepressants, diabetes medications, and steroids.  

It’s always best to ensure you inform your healthcare provider of any changes to your current medications. They can help ensure it's safe to combine with your current treatments and create a plan that supports your overall health goals.

For personalized guidance on Wegovy and how it fits into your medication regimen, reach out to Phlo Clinic today. We're here to help you create a treatment plan that works safely and effectively for you.

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References:

Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) for Wegovy ‍

Source: Wegovy SPC

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British National Formulary (BNF)

Source: BNF - Wegovy Monograph

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NHS Choices - Wegovy Information

Source: NHS - Wegovy

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National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

Source: NICE - Wegovy Guidelines