Menopause marks a major hormonal shift in a woman’s life… and with it can come a wide range of unwanted symptoms, from mood changes to stubborn weight gain.
For many, traditional treatment with HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) doesn’t treat many of the challenging symptoms, especially when it comes to managing weight gain.
The good news is that there is a potential solution – GLP-1 medications like Wegovy. But how does Wegovy help during menopause? And is it safe to take alongside HRT? Let’s find out.
Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age in the UK being 51. Menopause signifies the end of menstrual cycles.
Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 months without a period. However, the perimenopausal stage can start years before that. Some symptoms of perimenopause include:
1 in 4 women experience debilitating symptoms. Hormonal changes (particularly the drop in oestrogen) are the main cause of many of these effects.
Wegovy is a prescription weight-loss medication containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Although Semaglutide – the active ingredient in Wegovy – was originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, it is now widely used for weight management.
This medication works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which regulates appetite, blood sugar, and digestion. This leads to:
➤ Learn more about how Wegovy works.
Weight gain during menopause is extremely common, with more than half of women experiencing weight gain during menopause.
This is due to the hormonal drop in oestrogen, which can trigger:
Although lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise can help, it often isn’t enough. This is why many women opt for additional support, such as GLP-1 medications.
Yes, you can take Wegovy when you’re going through menopause. However, you must meet the criteria for weight loss treatment (typically a BMI over 30, or 27+ with weight-related health issues). The BMI criteria are adjusted based on ethnicity where appropriate.
Wegovy isn't specifically licensed for menopausal symptoms, but it can help you to lose the weight often triggered by menopause. It could also indirectly treat other related symptoms such as insulin resistance, fatigue and hot flushes.
Always speak with your healthcare provider before starting GLP-1 treatment, especially if you’re currently taking other medications such as HRT.
Want to know about Mounjaro and menopause? Learn more here.
Wegovy isn't specifically licensed to treat menopause symptoms. However, it may help to manage certain symptoms, such as weight gain. However, there are some precautions to bear in mind.
GLP-1 medications like Wegovy can often cause side effects – particularly gastrointestinal effects. Wegovy side effects may include:
These side effects are more common during the first few weeks of taking Wegovy. Your body should begin to adjust to the medication, and the side effects should begin to ease.
However, if you are already dealing with menopause-related gut issues or fatigue, these side effects may feel stronger. If side effects persist – or are particularly unpleasant – speak to your healthcare provider.
Menopause can be a challenging time, with hormone fluctuations leading to mood changes, low energy, and for many, irritability. Rapid weight loss or the lack of appetite caused by Wegovy could potentially make these symptoms worse, mostly in the early stages of treatment.
Although Wegovy is generally well tolerated, it is reported that some people experience mood changes when taking Wegovy, including depression, mood swings and emotional numbness.
Evidence on the impact of Wegovy on mental health symptoms is conflicting. One study found that people using Wegovy had a higher risk of psychiatric disorders – particularly depression and anxiety. The hazard ratio was 2.14 for any psychiatric disease. However, some clinical trials report a reduction in anxiety and depressive symptoms, and instead, note cognitive improvements.
Want to know what to expect during the first week on Wegovy? We’ve got you covered – check out this blog.
Wegovy can bring many benefits, but unfortunately, is not suitable for everybody, especially those with certain medical conditions. Wegovy may be unsuitable for you if you:
At Dr Frank's, we'll conduct a thorough health screening before prescribing Wegovy. We will only give you the medication if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Although Wegovy can contribute to substantial weight loss, responses can vary. It doesn't work the same way for everyone – some women experience positive results on Wegovy, but others may not notice a significant change in symptoms, and some women may struggle to tolerate the medication.
➤ Learn more here: Reasons You’re Not Losing Weight on Wegovy
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There’s currently no known interaction between Wegovy and HRT, meaning they can generally be taken together safely. However, because both treatments affect hormone levels and metabolic function, your doctor may monitor your progress closely.
In fact, using Wegovy alongside HRT may be complementary – while HRT restores oestrogen to ease symptoms like hot flushes, Wegovy can help address stubborn weight gain and appetite regulation.
One thing to note, however, is that Wegovy delays gastric emptying. If you are taking oral HRT, this could be problematic.
The delayed gastric emptying could impact how your body absorbs oral medications, including oral hormone replacement therapy (HRT). If HRT isn’t absorbed as effectively, it may lead to hormonal imbalances and, in some cases, breakthrough bleeding or a return of menopausal symptoms.
Whether you’re using Wegovy or not, here are some effective tips to support weight management during menopause:
Yes, Wegovy may be beneficial for women in menopause who struggle with weight. Some benefits may include:
Wegovy has proven its effectiveness in aiding weight loss, with studies showing positive results. But what about when combined with HRT?
Studies suggest that Wegovy combined with HRT can lead to enhanced weight loss for women who have gone through menopause.
A 2024 study explored the weight loss response to semaglutide in postmenopausal women with and without hormone therapy use, and found that women on hormone therapy (HT) lost significantly more weight than those not on HT at all time points:
To conclude, yes – Wegovy may be even more beneficial to women taking HRT in managing menopause weight gain.
Wegovy is available to eligible patients via prescription in the UK. At Dr Frank’s, we offer a safe and discreet service, with all applications reviewed by registered prescribers.
➤ Browse our product page: Buy Wegovy Online
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Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”
Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”