Navigating Weight Management: Wegovy in Korea

Wegovy (semaglutide), the much-discussed weekly injectable medication for weight loss, has generated significant global attention. If you're living in or moving to South Korea and are considering Wegovy as part of your weight management plan, here's what you need to know about its availability, prescription, cost, and considerations for foreigners.



Is Wegovy Available in South Korea?

Yes, Wegovy was launched in South Korea in October 2024. It received approval from the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) in April 2022. This means it is now available for prescription by medical professionals in the country.

Wegovy belongs to the class of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists, which work by mimicking a natural hormone that helps regulate appetite and feelings of fullness. It is administered once a week via an injection pen and comes in five different dosage levels (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg), with patients typically starting at a lower dose and gradually increasing it.

Who Can Get a Wegovy Prescription in Korea?

In South Korea, Wegovy is prescribed under specific criteria, similar to global guidelines for obesity medications:

• Adult patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or higher.
• Overweight patients with a BMI between 27 kg/m² and 30 kg/m² who have at least one weight-related comorbidity. These comorbidities can include conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
• It can also be used to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher.

It's important to note that Wegovy is approved as a supplementary therapy alongside a calorie-reduction diet and increased physical activity. It is not intended for cosmetic use or for individuals who do not meet the medical criteria.

How to Get a Prescription

You will need to consult with a medical specialist, typically an endocrinologist (내분비내과 - naebunbi naegwa) or a doctor specializing in obesity management (비만클리닉 - biman keulliniik) or family medicine (가정의학과 - gajeonguihakgwa) at a hospital or clinic.

1. Initial Consultation: The doctor will take a detailed medical history, conduct a physical exam, and likely order blood tests to assess your overall health, rule out underlying conditions, and confirm your eligibility based on BMI and comorbidities.
2. Discussion of Treatment Plan: If you meet the criteria, the doctor will discuss the benefits, risks, and potential side effects of Wegovy. They will also outline the titration schedule (gradual increase in dosage) and emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes.
3. Prescription: A prescription will be issued, which you will then take to a pharmacy. You'll also likely receive instructions on how to administer the weekly injection.

Cost of Wegovy in Korea

A crucial point for all patients, especially foreigners without comprehensive local insurance, is the cost:

• Wegovy is currently NOT covered by Korea's National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) for obesity treatment. This means patients must bear the full cost of the medication out-of-pocket.
• The retail price for consumers is estimated to be between ₩400,000 to ₩800,000 KRW (approx. $290 - $580 USD) per pen for a four-week supply. Prices can vary by clinic and pharmacy.
• This cost does not include consultation fees, diagnostic tests, or any follow-up appointments.

Due to the high cost, some reports indicate that initial demand has stabilized, with some patients discontinuing treatment beyond the initial phases.

Important Considerations for Foreigners

• Language Barrier: While many doctors at larger hospitals and clinics in expat-dense areas (like Gangnam, Yongsan) speak English, ensuring clear communication about your medical history, eligibility criteria, side effects, and long-term treatment plan is paramount.
• Doctor's Specialty: It's best to consult with an endocrinologist or a doctor at a dedicated obesity clinic, as they will have the most experience with GLP-1 medications and comprehensive weight management strategies.
• Long-Term Supply & Follow-up: As obesity management with Wegovy is a long-term endeavor, discuss the feasibility of obtaining consistent supply and scheduling regular follow-up appointments with your chosen clinic. You may need to visit the doctor monthly for a new prescription, especially during the dose escalation phase.
• Side Effects: Be aware of common side effects, which include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Less common but serious side effects can include pancreatitis or gallbladder issues. It's crucial to report any concerning symptoms to your doctor.
• Supply Issues: Globally, GLP-1 drugs have faced supply constraints due to high demand. While Wegovy has launched in Korea, be prepared for potential fluctuations in availability, though hopefully, this will stabilize over time.
• Misuse Concerns: The medical community in Korea, like elsewhere, is keen to prevent the misuse of Wegovy for purely cosmetic weight loss in individuals who do not meet the medical criteria. Ensure you approach treatment responsibly and adhere strictly to your doctor's guidance.

Starting a journey with a powerful medication like Wegovy requires careful consideration and professional medical guidance. In South Korea, you have access to state-of-the-art medical facilities and expertise, ensuring that your weight management plan is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.

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