Lester Leo is the emcee for the official pharma launch of Wegovy in Singapore, a prescription medication now available in Singapore to support the treatment of obesity.
This medical event brought together more than 1100 healthcare professionals, endocrinologists, and industry stakeholders, marking an important milestone in Singapore’s efforts to improve population health outcomes.
Developed by global pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg) is an injectable drug prescribed to adults living with obesity or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related comorbidity such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
Taken once weekly via a pre-filled pen, Wegovy works by mimicking GLP-1, a natural hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar levels. The drug helps reduce food intake by inducing a feeling of fullness and suppressing appetite. It is intended for use alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Wegovy was approved by Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority in 2023 and is now available at licensed clinics and hospitals. It is a higher-dose formulation of Ozempic, which was approved in 2021 and gained global attention for its weight management benefits.
Throughout the launch event, key medical experts addressed the importance of treating obesity as a chronic disease, driven by complex biological and environmental factors- not simply lifestyle choices. The shift in narrative from blame to support was a central theme echoed by clinicians and speakers alike.
Difference between Ozempic and Wegovy
One common area of confusion is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy. While Ozempic and Wegovy are both developed by Novo Nordisk and contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide, they are approved for different uses.
Ozempic is intended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, whereas Wegovy is specifically formulated and dosed for long-term weight management.
Many people mistakenly use Ozempic off-label for weight loss without understanding the medical risks. Unlike Wegovy, Ozempic has not been clinically evaluated or approved for sustained weight reduction in individuals without diabetes.
Using Ozempic outside of its intended purpose may result in suboptimal outcomes or adverse effects without proper medical supervision.
As a medical event emcee, Emcee Lester ensured these important distinctions were clearly communicated to healthcare professionals and guests, highlighting the role of accurate messaging in pharmaceutical education. Emcee Lester also ensured that the launch was conducted with clarity, professionalism, and engagement, setting the stage for meaningful dialogue on the future of obesity care in Singapore.