Weight-loss injection (GLP-1)
GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy®) regulate hunger and satiety. They are effective, but they are a long-term medical therapy with clear criteria. We tell you openly who they are suitable for and who they are not.
15 to 20% weight loss
That is the average loss in the approval trials over 68 to 72 weeks, always combined with dietary changes and physical activity.
Long-term therapy
After stopping, the weight usually rises again. The treatment is therefore designed for the long term and medically supervised.
Side effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation are common, especially at the start. Increasing the dose slowly improves tolerability.
When we can treat
- BMI ≥ 30 kg/m², the medical indication according to the Swissmedic approval
- BMI ≥ 27 kg/m² with a weight-related condition such as hypertension, prediabetes or sleep apnoea
- Always combined with dietary changes, nutritional counselling and more physical activity
- On a self-pay basis at our practice, with a full work-up and regular follow-up appointments
When we do not treat
- BMI below 27 kg/m² or a purely cosmetic wish to lose weight
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding or currently trying to conceive
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN-2 syndrome in the personal or family history, previous pancreatitis
- Without willingness to change diet and attend follow-up appointments
Coverage by health insurance
Basic insurance covers Wegovy® only under strict conditions: BMI ≥ 35 or BMI ≥ 28 with a comorbidity, prior cost approval from the insurer and documented dietary changes. Prescribing is reserved for endocrinology specialists and obesity centres. As a GP practice we take care of the complete work-up covering BMI, comorbidities, laboratory and contraindications. If you meet the criteria, we refer you into the reimbursed treatment pathway.
Frequently asked questions about the weight-loss injection
Does health insurance pay for the weight-loss injection?
Only under strict conditions: BMI ≥ 35 or BMI ≥ 28 with a comorbidity such as prediabetes, hypertension or dyslipidaemia. In addition, prior cost approval from the insurer, documented dietary changes and prescription by endocrinology specialists or an obesity centre are required. Success criteria of at least 5 to 7% weight loss after 16 weeks apply, and reimbursement is limited to three years. We assess whether you meet the criteria and refer you.
Can I get the weight-loss injection directly at medelio?
Yes, if the medical criteria are met (BMI ≥ 30 or BMI ≥ 27 with a comorbidity). In that case we prescribe on a self-pay basis and supervise you medically. Below this threshold or with contraindications we do not prescribe, even on request.
What does the treatment look like?
First we assess your starting point with BMI, comorbidities, laboratory and contraindications. If you meet the criteria, we start with a low dose and increase it slowly. Regular follow-ups and nutritional counselling are a fixed part of the treatment.
Book an appointment
We take the time for your assessment and advise you personally.