Dr HAACH

Wegovy® (Semaglutide) in Singapore: What You Should Know for Weight Management

As medical weight management options in Singapore, treatments like Wegovy® (semaglutide) are becoming more common. Semaglutide is an HSA-approved prescription injection for adults who need help managing their weight. This guide explains how it works, who it may be suitable for, what to expect during treatment, and, more importantly, safety considerations.

How Does it Work

Semaglutide is a medicine that mimics the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone in the body. It helps regulate your appetite, making you feel fuller for longer and reducing your overall food intake. When combined with healthier eating habits and regular exercise, this can support weight loss over time (HealthHub↗).

Who is Semaglutide For?

Semaglutide is prescribed for adults who need medical support in managing their weight. It may be considered if:

– You have obesity (body mass index, BMI, of 30 or higher), or
– You are overweight (BMI of 27 or higher) and also have a weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol (Wegovy.com↗)

Semaglutide may also be prescribed for adults with obesity and known heart disease to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as a heart attack or stroke (HealthHub↗)

A doctor’s assessment is required to determine if Wegovy® is suitable, taking into account your medical history, current health status, and treatment goals.

Semaglutide Treatment Process

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Our doctor will evaluate your medical history, lifestyle, and weight loss goals to determine the most suitable treatment.

Step 2: Starting Dose

Treatment begins at a low dose to allow the body to adjust. The dosage is gradually increased every few weeks until reaching a maintenance level (usually 2.4mg/week).

Step 3: Weekly Injections

Semaglutide is taken once a week as a subcutaneous injection is performed once a week into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. You will be trained on proper injection techniques and site rotation (SingHealth↗).

Step 4: Progress Monitoring

Ongoing follow-up appointments will help monitor your weight loss, adjust your plan as needed, and manage any side effects.

Expected Results

In clinical studies, semaglutide combined with diet and physical activity led to an average weight loss of around 15% of body weight over 68 weeks (Drugs.com↗). Results vary depending on individual health, lifestyle, and treatment adherence.

Possible Side Effects

Common semaglutide side effects may include:

– Nausea
Vomiting
– Heartburn
– Burping
– Stomach pain
– Diarrhoea or constipation, 
– Headaches, dizziness and tiredness.

Most side effects are mild and improve over time. More serious but less common risks may include pancreatitis or gallbladder problems. Any unusual or severe symptoms should be reported to a doctor immediately (HealthHub↗).

Importance of Lifestyle Support

Wegovy is not intended as a standalone solution. It works best alongside:

– A balanced, reduced-calorie diet
Healthy lifestyle habits, such as adequate sleep and stress management
– Regular physical activity

Without these changes, weight regain is possible if the medication is stopped (Wegovy.com↗)

Cost of Semaglutide in Singapore

The cost of Semaglutide treatment in Singapore can vary between clinics. Several factors may influence the overall price:

Dosage and duration – Semaglutide is started at a lower dose and gradually increased. The final maintenance dose and length of treatment affect cost.
Consultation and monitoring – Regular doctor visits, follow-up checks, and support services are part of safe treatment.
Individual treatment plan – Each patient’s health needs and goals may require different levels of care or support.

Because of these factors, the total cost of Semaglutide treatment is best discussed during a consultation. At Dr HAACH, a medical professional will assess your suitability for treatment and provide a clear breakdown of expected costs.

Summary

Semaglutide offers a medically supervised option for weight management in Singapore. Treatment includes regular monitoring, dose adjustment, and lifestyle support. A consultation with a qualified doctor is the first step to finding out if this treatment is suitable for your health needs.

Book a Consultation

References

HealthHub SG. (n.d.). Semaglutide injection (Wegovy). HealthHub. https://www.healthhub.sg/medication-devices-and-treatment/medications/semaglutide-injection-wegovy

SingHealth. (n.d.). Semaglutide injection (Wegovy). SingHealth. https://www.singhealth.com.sg/medicine/semaglutide-injection-wegovy

Drugs.com. (n.d.). Semaglutide. Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/semaglutide.html

Novo Nordisk. (n.d.). Managing weight with Wegovy. Wegovy. https://www.wegovy.com/about-wegovy/managing-weight-with-wegovy.html