Novo Nordisk launches Wegovy to combat obesity and cardiovascular risk
January 12, 2026
Wegovy is a once-weekly injectable treatment that helps regulate appetite, reduce cravings and food noise, supporting sustainable weight loss and healthier long-term outcomes.
Novo Nordisk has announced the availability of Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg), a new adjunct treatment option for adults living with obesity or overweight who have at least one weight-related comorbidity. The launch comes at a critical time, as findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 reveal that nearly 54.4% of Malaysian adults are classified as overweight or obese—highlighting a growing public health concern.
Obesity is a chronic disease associated with more than 200 potential health complications, earning its reputation as a “gateway disease.” It significantly increases the risk of serious conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia, all of which can reduce life expectancy and negatively impact quality of life. Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg) is a once-weekly injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist that works by mimicking the natural hormone GLP-1 released by the gut after eating. This mechanism targets specific areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, helping to reduce hunger, cravings, and what many patients describe as persistent “food noise.” The treatment is indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight management, including weight loss and weight maintenance, in adults with an initial Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m², or ≥27 kg/m² to <30 kg/m² in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbidity such as prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, obstructive sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease. Clinical studies have shown that Wegovy can deliver ≥20% weight loss in people living with obesity. Importantly, treatment with semaglutide has demonstrated a greater reduction in fat mass compared to lean body mass, enabling what experts describe as high-quality weight loss. “For too long, obesity has been surrounded by stigma, shaping societal perceptions and influencing how individuals seek healthcare,” said Dr Praful Chakkarwar, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Malaysia. “As the burden of obesity continues to rise in Malaysia, this moment represents a crucial turning point in how we recognise and manage obesity as a disease.” Dr Chakkarwar highlighted that Wegovy is a groundbreaking, patient-friendly treatment, administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection using a simple, easy-to-use device. With a needle length of just four millimetres, it is designed for comfort and ease, supporting long-term adherence. Clinical trial data show that at least one in three patients achieved more than 20% weight loss, with outcomes being dose-dependent—higher doses were associated with greater weight reduction. Equally significant is the quality of weight loss. Pooled data from Wegovy clinical trials indicate that 84% of total weight loss comes from fat mass, a key factor in improving metabolic health and physical function. Another major challenge for many individuals is “food noise”—the constant preoccupation with food and cravings. Wegovy has been studied in both clinical trials and real-world settings and has been shown to reduce food cravings by up to 46%, making it easier for patients to sustain lifestyle modifications. Beyond weight loss, Wegovy has also demonstrated cardiovascular benefits. In people living with obesity—regardless of diabetes status—treatment with semaglutide was associated with a 20% reduction in cardiovascular events, including heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related deaths. These clinical benefits translate into meaningful real-world improvements, such as better mobility, increased energy levels, reduced cravings, improved emotional well-being, enhanced quality of life, and a greater ability to participate fully in work, family, and social activities. Wegovy is intended to be used as part of comprehensive obesity care, alongside lifestyle support and under the supervision of healthcare professionals. This integrated approach supports long-term weight management and reinforces the recognition of obesity as a disease that requires ongoing, evidence-based medical care. |
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