Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Wegovy is a prescription-only GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar. Used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity, it has been shown to support significant, sustainable weight loss. Clinical studies report that users may lose up to 15% of their body weight after 12 months of treatment.

How Wegovy Compares to Other Weight Loss Injections

Like other GLP-1 medications, Wegovy works by slowing digestion and helping you feel fuller for longer, making it easier to reduce calorie intake.

GLP-1 vs Dual Incretin Therapies

In contrast, dual-incretin therapies like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) act on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual mechanism may lead to greater weight loss, with studies showing up to 25.3% weight loss over 88 weeks at the highest dose. For comparison, Ozempic, which is only licensed for type 2 diabetes in the UK, is linked to around 7% weight loss.

Clinical Trial Results

Wegovy has been extensively studied in clinical trials. When combined with lifestyle changes, results include:

• 14.9% average weight loss over 68 weeks, compared to 2.4% with placebo
• 83.5% of participants lost at least 5% of their body weight
• After 6 months, 90% achieved at least 5% weight loss
• After 12 months, 60% lost over 15%, and nearly 40% lost more than 20% of their starting weight

Recommended by NICE

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends Wegovy for adults with obesity or weight-related health conditions, based on its proven effectiveness in clinical trials.

Additional Health Benefits

Research also highlights Wegovy’s cardioprotective benefits. It may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in people with obesity (Singh et al, 2022).

Setting Realistic Weight Loss Goals

Wegovy works best as part of a structured weight-loss plan, which includes:

• A calorie-controlled diet
• Regular exercise

A healthy target is to lose around 1–2 pounds (0.5–1 kg) per week. Always follow medical advice to ensure the treatment is suitable for you (Wilding et al, 2021; Rubino et al, 2021; NovoMEDLINK, 2024).

Wegovy vs Mounjaro: New Trial Insights

For updated head-to-head trial insights from May 2025, read our full analysis: Wegovy vs Mounjaro blog.

Wegovy is a weekly injection that contains semaglutide, a prescription-only medicine used to support weight loss in adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or 27+ if weight-related health conditions are present. You can request Wegovy online from UK Meds by completing a short medical questionnaire. If suitable, a registered prescriber will issue a prescription, and your treatment will be delivered directly to your door.

How It Works

1. Complete a free online consultation.
2. Your answers are reviewed by a registered prescriber.
3. If approved, your prescription is sent to the pharmacy team for dispatch.

Now in Stock

Available in 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 1.7mg, and 2.4mg pens. Each pen contains four once-weekly doses. Treatment starts at the lowest strength and gradually increases every four weeks, depending on your progress and how well you tolerate the medication.

Do I Need a Prescription for Wegovy?

Yes. Wegovy is a prescription-only medication in the UK and cannot be bought over the counter. At UK Meds, a private prescription is included free of charge following an online consultation. This is reviewed by a registered prescriber to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate for you.

Why Is a Prescription Necessary?

Before you can start treatment, a healthcare professional will assess your BMI, medical history, and any current medications. This safeguards your health and ensures Wegovy is used as part of a clinically appropriate weight loss plan.

Getting Wegovy Privately

If you're eligible, Wegovy can be prescribed through a secure, confidential online consultation at UK Meds. There's no extra charge for the prescription, and all medication requests are subject to clinical approval.

Are There Alternatives to Wegovy?

If semaglutide isn’t suitable, other prescription weight loss treatments may include:

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
• Saxenda (liraglutide)
• Orlistat (also known as Xenical or Alli)

A healthcare professional can help determine the best option based on your health profile and weight loss goals.

Choose the Best Delivery Options

Decide on the best discreet delivery option for your order below.

Please note: Delivery options and pricing are subject to change. For the latest information on UK Meds delivery options please visit our delivery page to learn more. You can also read our other policies including our returns process.

Looking to purchase Wegovy in the UK? Below is a guide to current prices for the Wegovy FlexTouch across all available strengths. Each pen contains four once-weekly doses and is priced based on the dosage prescribed as part of your treatment plan.

How Much Does Wegovy Cost?

The cost per pen starts from £124.99* / month. If titrating all the way up to the maximum dose and maintaining, the annual cost is £3,149.87.

Treatment begins with a low starting dose, which may be gradually increased every four weeks based on your progress.

One pen contains four doses, so a pen lasts for 4 weeks.

Please note: Pricing is subject to change. For the latest information please refer to the consultation section at the top of the product information page.

For more information on the prescription medication patients should refer to the Wegovy patient information leaflet.

Wegovy has received a range of feedback from users, as individual results vary depending on health, lifestyle and how your body responds to treatment. You can read real user stories to better understand what to expect.

Customer Experiences

Find out how UK Meds customers have found Wegovy during their weight loss journeys. For wider perspectives, see independent reviews on sites like Drugs.com and WebMD.

Keep in mind, no two experiences are the same. Mixed reviews don’t mean the treatment won’t work for you. It's important to speak with your doctor to determine whether Wegovy is suitable for your needs.

Is Wegovy Suitable for Me?

Wegovy is a prescription weight loss treatment designed for adults living with obesity or weight-related conditions. Eligibility is typically based on BMI and individual health risks:

• Recommended by NICE for adults with a BMI of 35+ and at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure).
• Available at a BMI of 30+ in certain cases, where criteria for specialist weight management are met.
• Lower BMI thresholds may apply to people from ethnic groups with increased risk, including South Asian, Black African, and Middle Eastern backgrounds.
• Wegovy should be used as part of a broader plan that includes healthy eating and physical activity.

Always consult your healthcare provider to see if Wegovy is a safe and appropriate treatment for you.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is a weekly weight loss injection containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that reduces appetite and helps regulate blood sugar. It is licensed in the UK for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27+ if they have weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

This prescription-only treatment works best when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Administered once weekly, Wegovy helps users feel fuller for longer and supports long-term behaviour change to aid sustainable weight loss.

For information on who can take Wegovy, how to get started, and dosage guidance, visit our Wegovy buyer’s guide.

Why Wegovy Matters

Obesity is a growing concern in the UK, costing the NHS an estimated £6.5 billion annually. By helping manage obesity and related conditions like diabetes and heart disease, Wegovy supports better public health outcomes and may reduce NHS pressure (GOV.UK, 2023).

Its role in the rising global obesity drug market-which is expected to exceed $77 billion by 2030, places Wegovy among leading treatments like Mounjaro and Saxenda (Morgan Stanley, 2023).

How Does Wegovy Work?

The active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics the natural hormone GLP-1, which is released after eating and helps regulate appetite. It signals the brain to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier to consume fewer calories and adopt healthier eating habits (Collins et al, 2023).

Wegovy targets specific brain receptors to manage appetite and promote weight loss. It is most effective when used alongside lifestyle changes, including:

• Eating a nutritious, calorie-controlled diet
• Engaging in regular physical activity

Is Wegovy Approved for Heart Health?

Yes. In July 2024, the UK’s MHRA approved Wegovy for reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes in people with a high BMI and existing heart conditions (Pharmacy Magazine, 2024).

This followed a 17,600-participant trial which showed a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events over five years with weekly Wegovy use (Lincoff et al., 2023).

Why This Matters

Wegovy offers dual benefits, supporting both weight loss and cardiovascular health, making it an important treatment for those managing obesity alongside heart conditions. If you're concerned about your weight or heart health, speak to your GP or healthcare provider to discuss whether Wegovy is right for you.

Want to Learn More?

Visit our Beginner’s Guide to Wegovy to understand how semaglutide works, eligibility requirements, and how to get your weight loss programme started with treatment through a free online consultation at UK Meds.

How to Use a Wegovy Pen

Wegovy is a once-weekly weight loss injection delivered via a pre-filled pen. Each dose is administered under the skin (subcutaneous) in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Follow your prescriber’s instructions and the official Instructions for Use leaflet included with your medication.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare

• Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab or soap and water.
• Attach the needle (provided) and have cotton wool or gauze ready.

Step 2: Inject

1. Remove the pen cap.
2. Inject into the stomach (avoiding the belly button), thigh, or upper arm.
3. After injection, apply light pressure with gauze or cotton wool if needed.

Your prescriber may help you track your weight loss progress and provide additional support with managing your treatment.

Where to Inject Wegovy

Inject into the fatty layer beneath the skin. The most common areas include:

• Stomach (at least 2 inches away from the navel)
• Thigh
• Upper arm

If you're unsure, speak to your prescriber or refer to the patient leaflet.

Stopping Wegovy

Wegovy is not addictive and can be stopped without tapering. However, stopping may lead to weight regain, so always consult your prescriber before discontinuing.

For additional tips on side effect management, healthy eating, and exercise while on treatment, read the UK Meds Wegovy Guide To Using A Wegovy Injection: Advice, Tips and Recommendations.

Does Wegovy Need to Be Kept In The Fridge?

Yes, Wegovy must be stored in the fridge between 2°C and 8°C before first use. After opening, it can be kept for up to 6 weeks at either:

• Room temperature (below 30°C), or
• In the fridge.

Important: Do not freeze Wegovy. If the pen becomes frozen or exposed to frost, it should be discarded. Using thawed or partially frozen medication may result in an inaccurate dose and is unsafe.

Does Wegovy Expire?

Once opened, each pen expires 6 weeks from the first use, regardless of whether it's stored in the fridge or at room temperature. Ensure it stays between 2°C and 30°C. After this period, any remaining medication must be disposed of safely.

Disposing of Used or Expired Pens

Wegovy pens are classed as medical waste and must not be thrown in household rubbish. In the UK:

• Use a sharps bin for disposal. Your GP or pharmacy can provide one if needed.
• Return full sharps containers to your local pharmacy for safe handling.

PenCycle Scheme

Eco tip: Wegovy pens can now be recycled through Novo Nordisk’s PenCycle programme. Check participating UK pharmacies to return your used pens for sustainable disposal.

Wegovy is a once-weekly injection used to support weight loss in adults with obesity or weight-related health concerns. To minimise side effects, treatment begins at a low dose and increases gradually over 16 weeks until a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg is reached. This step-by-step approach helps your body adjust to the medicine (semaglutide), though not everyone will tolerate the full dose. Always follow the guidance of a healthcare professional and do not adjust your dose on your own.

Wegovy Titration Schedule

Injections should be taken once every 7 days, ideally on the same day each week, with or without food. If you need to change your injection day, leave at least 3 days between doses.

What If You Miss a Dose?

• Missed by 5 days or less: Take it as soon as possible, then resume your normal schedule.
• More than 5 days late: Skip the missed dose and wait for your next scheduled injection. Do not double up or inject twice within 72 hours.

How Long Does a Wegovy Pen Last?

Each Wegovy pen typically provides four once-weekly doses and includes four needles. You'll use different pens as your dose increases, based on your prescribed strength. For most people, a pen lasts four weeks.

Using Wegovy Safely

1. Stick to the titration plan recommended by your prescriber.
2. Only make changes to your dose under medical supervision.
3. Refer to the official Instructions for Use or read UK Meds Wegovy Dosing & Titration Guide for further support.

With the right dosage schedule and medical supervision, Wegovy can be a safe and effective part of your long-term weight loss strategy.

Who Should and Shouldn’t Use Wegovy?

Wegovy is suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27+ if they have weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease. It may also be prescribed for young people aged 12 and over with obesity, under medical supervision (NovoMEDLINK, 2023).

Wegovy is not suitable for:

• Children under 12
• Anyone allergic to semaglutide or ingredients in the injection
• People with a BMI below 30 (unless they meet specific medical criteria)
• Those who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Wegovy should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to limited safety data. If you're planning to conceive, stop treatment at least two months beforehand (Nuako et al, 2023).

Alcohol and Drug Interactions

• Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking.
• Alcohol can affect blood sugar and may worsen side effects. Limit intake where possible.

Why Speak to Your Healthcare Provider First?

Before starting Wegovy, it's important to discuss:

• Your full medical history, including diabetes, kidney disease or eye conditions
• All medicines you’re taking to avoid interactions
• Your goals for weight loss and whether Wegovy fits your needs

Wegovy should always be used alongside lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Speak to a doctor to check if it’s the right treatment for you.

For a full list of warnings and precautions, see Section 2 of the official Patient Information Leaflet.

What are the side effects of Wegovy?

Like all prescription medicines, Wegovy (semaglutide) may cause side effects. These can range from mild to serious and vary between individuals. Most are manageable, especially when monitored by a healthcare provider.

Common Wegovy Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Headaches
• Stomach pain
• Feeling weak or tired
• Complications in diabetic eye disease (especially if you have a history of this)

Serious Side Effects – When to Seek Medical Help

Though rare, serious side effects can occur. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

Important Considerations

Some patients with longstanding diabetes may have a higher risk of complications like diabetic retinopathy. Research suggests that semaglutide does not raise the overall risk but caution is advised in certain cases.

If you experience side effects, do not stop using Wegovy without medical guidance. Always speak to your doctor or refer to section 4 of the patient information leaflet for a full list of side effects.

Understanding Wegovy: Benefits and Risks

To weigh up the benefits and potential side effects of Wegovy, visit our UK Meds guide to the benefits and risks of using Wegovy.

Is Compounded Semaglutide Safe?

Compounded semaglutide may appear cheaper but is not licensed or approved for use in the UK. These unregulated versions can pose serious risks, including inconsistent dosing, contamination, and unknown side effects. To protect your health, always use MHRA-approved medications like Wegovy and seek advice from a registered healthcare professional before starting treatment (Patel, 2023).

Which weight loss medications can I try instead of Wegovy?

If Wegovy isn’t suitable for you, UK Meds offers other weight loss treatments that may help, including Saxenda, Orlistat, and Mounjaro. Your doctor or healthcare provider can help you choose the most appropriate option based on your health needs.

How do weight loss medications compare?

Here’s how some of the most commonly prescribed weight loss medications differ:

How does Wegovy compare to other medications?

Wegovy vs Mounjaro

Wegovy uses semaglutide to reduce appetite. Mounjaro uses tirzepatide, which mimics both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, offering dual-action effects. Both are weekly injections, but Mounjaro has shown faster and greater weight loss results in studies. Read more on Mounjaro vs Wegovy.

Wegovy vs Saxenda

While both treatments suppress appetite, Wegovy is a weekly injection, whereas Saxenda must be taken daily. For many people, fewer injections make Wegovy and Mounjaro more convenient. Compare all three here.

Wegovy vs Ozempic

Although both contain semaglutide, Ozempic is licensed for type 2 diabetes, not weight loss. UK Meds does not recommend using Ozempic for weight management to prioritise supply for diabetes patients. Explore Ozempic.

Can I switch between medications?

Switching from Saxenda to Wegovy or another treatment may be possible but should only be done under medical supervision. Your prescriber will assess your progress, goals, and medical history to recommend the best approach.

Looking to lose weight naturally?

Alongside medication, small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Explore our simple, practical tips for healthy weight loss.

UK Meds is committed to providing you with the most accurate information possible regarding healthcare and lifestyle, as outlined in our Editorial Policy and Content Policy. We aim to regularly peer review and update our content as necessary to give you the most up-to-date medical information, helping you to be fully informed before starting a consultation with a registered prescriber for the treatment that you need.

Please note that our content is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Before starting any treatment or making any changes that could affect your lifestyle, you should always speak with your doctor, pharmacist or healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

28th July 2025

• Wegovy - Weight Management Tools
• Park Royal Medical Practice - Wegovy on the NHS
• BNF - Semaglutide
• Drugs.com - Wegovy
• WebMD - Wegovy
• Medicines.org.uk - Wegovy
• Health Media Blog - Accessing Wegovy for Weight Loss
• European Medicines Agency - Wegovy
• ScienceDirect - Semaglutide
• Key Facts About Wegovy - Diabetes Strong
• Semaglutide: A Complete Guide - Diabetes.co.uk

• What is Semaglutide? - An introduction to Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy.
• How Wegovy Works in Weight Management - Understand the science behind Wegovy and weight loss.
• Wegovy Prescription Requirements in the UK - Find out what you need to get a prescription for Wegovy.
• MHRA Approval for Wegovy - Details on the UK regulatory approval of Wegovy.
• Wegovy NHS Availability - Information on whether Wegovy is available through the NHS.
• Buy Wegovy UK Guide - A helpful guide on how to buy Wegovy in the UK.
• Choosing an Online Prescription Service for Wegovy - Advice on picking the best service for your needs.
• Wegovy Dosage Guide - Discover the right dosage for using Wegovy effectively.
• Using a Wegovy Injection: Tips - Simple advice for making injections easy and safe.
• Tracking Your Progress with Wegovy - Tips for monitoring weight-loss progress with Wegovy.
• Wegovy Timeline: Seeing Results - Find out how long it takes to notice weight loss with Wegovy.
• Diet and Nutrition Tips When Using Wegovy - Nutrition advice to complement Wegovy treatment.
• Exercise Recommendations When Using Wegovy - Discover the best exercises to pair with Wegovy.
• Losing Weight with Lifestyle Changes and Wegovy - How to combine Wegovy with healthy habits for weight loss.
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• Common Side Effects of Wegovy - Learn about the possible side effects of taking Wegovy.
• Managing Wegovy Side Effects - Tips for handling common side effects of Wegovy.
• Wegovy Interactions with Other Medications - Information on how Wegovy interacts with other treatments.
• Serious Risks and Warnings of Wegovy - Important safety information about using Wegovy.
• Benefits and Risks of Using Wegovy - A balanced view of the advantages and risks of Wegovy.
• Can You Drink on Wegovy? - Guidance on alcohol consumption while using Wegovy.
• Why Am I Not Losing Weight on Wegovy? - Explore reasons why Wegovy might not work and how to address them.
• Wegovy Weight Loss Success Stories - Inspiring stories from people who lost weight with Wegovy.
• UK Patient Reviews for Wegovy - Honest feedback from UK patients using Wegovy.
• Mounjaro vs Wegovy - Compare these two popular weight-loss injections.
• Side Effects: Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro - A guide to understanding side effects for these weight-loss injections.
• Weight Loss Injections Comparison - Compare Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda injections.
• Buying Wegovy in London - Information on accessing Wegovy in London.
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