What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is an injectable medication containing the active ingredient semaglutide, approved by the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for weight loss and management. It works by mimicking a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which targets the brain's appetite regulation centers. This helps to increase feelings of fullness, reduce hunger, and slow stomach emptying, leading to a reduced calorie intake and significant weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
The NHS pathway for Wegovy prescription
For eligible adults, Wegovy is available on the NHS in England, Wales, and Scotland. However, accessing it is not a simple matter of asking your GP for a prescription. It is provided through a structured pathway that involves referral to a specialist weight management service.
NHS Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Wegovy prescription on the NHS, you must meet specific criteria set out by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). You must:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or more and at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.
- Alternatively, have a BMI of 30 to 34.9 and be referred to a specialist weight management service.
- Have already attempted conventional weight loss methods unsuccessfully.
- Be prepared to engage with a lifestyle program, including diet and physical activity support.
- Lower BMI thresholds apply to individuals from certain ethnic backgrounds, including Asian, Chinese, and Black African/Caribbean, who have higher health risks at lower BMIs.
The NHS Process and Review
The process begins with a consultation with your GP, who can make the referral to a specialist service. Access to these specialist clinics varies by region, and waiting times can be substantial. The prescription is typically for a maximum of two years, after which the patient is reviewed. Furthermore, if you have not lost at least 5% of your starting weight after six months of treatment, the medication may be stopped.
Obtaining a private Wegovy prescription in the UK
For those who do not meet the NHS criteria, or who wish to avoid long waiting lists, a private prescription for Wegovy is an alternative. This is available through regulated online doctor services and some high-street pharmacies, following a medical assessment.
Private eligibility criteria
The eligibility criteria for a private prescription are typically more flexible than those for NHS access, though they still adhere to MHRA guidelines. Eligibility usually requires:
- A BMI of 30 or above.
- A BMI of 27 or above if you also have a weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
The private process and cost
After an online or in-person consultation and health questionnaire, a clinician will determine if you are suitable for the medication. The cost of a private prescription is considerably higher than the NHS prescription fee, with monthly prices varying depending on the dose and provider. Many private providers combine the medication with an integrated support programme, including dietitians or health coaches, which evidence suggests significantly improves results. Unlike the NHS, private treatment can potentially continue for a longer duration with ongoing clinical approval.
Weighing NHS vs. Private Wegovy access
Choosing between the NHS and a private prescription depends on several factors, including your eligibility, patience for waiting lists, and financial situation. The following table provides a comparison to help you decide.
| Feature | NHS Prescription | Private Prescription |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Very strict, requires high BMI + comorbidity or specific referral criteria, and a referral to specialist service. | More flexible, typically requires BMI 30+ or BMI 27+ with a comorbidity. |
| Cost | Standard NHS prescription charge (currently £9.90 per item). | Significantly higher monthly cost, ranging from £100s to £200s, depending on dose and provider. |
| Access | Requires GP referral to a specialist weight management service; potentially long waiting lists. | Accessible via online doctor services or private pharmacies; typically faster access without NHS waiting lists. |
| Duration | Limited to a maximum of two years under current NICE guidelines. | Can be continued for longer terms, subject to ongoing medical supervision and tolerability. |
| Support | Multidisciplinary team support as part of specialist service; standard may vary. | Often includes integrated support programs with dietitians or coaches, though some providers only supply the medication. |
| Review | Clinical review at 6 months; must show at least 5% weight loss to continue. | Ongoing reviews as part of the service; continuation based on progress and individual health. |
The distinction between Wegovy and Ozempic
It is crucial to understand that while Wegovy and Ozempic both contain the active ingredient semaglutide, they are distinctly different products with specific regulatory approvals.
- Wegovy is licensed and approved specifically for chronic weight management. It comes in higher doses of semaglutide (up to 2.4mg) than Ozempic.
- Ozempic is licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Prescribing Ozempic for weight loss is considered off-label and has led to supply issues for diabetes patients in the past; therefore, current guidelines state it should not be prescribed for weight loss alone.
Key considerations and side effects
Regardless of how you access Wegovy, it is essential to use it under medical supervision and as part of a comprehensive weight management plan. Clinical trials show the best results when the medication is combined with lifestyle interventions, such as a healthy diet and increased physical activity.
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, and fatigue. While these often improve over time, you should always report any side effects to your healthcare professional. More serious, but rarer, risks include gallbladder issues or pancreatitis. It is also important to note that clinical trials have shown that weight lost on Wegovy can be regained after stopping the treatment.
In July 2024, the MHRA also approved Wegovy to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in overweight and obese individuals with pre-existing heart disease, adding another potential benefit for some patients.
Conclusion
In summary, Wegovy can be prescribed for weight loss in the UK, but access is highly regulated. For those on the NHS, prescription is limited to adults with a high BMI and relevant comorbidities who can be referred to a specialist weight management service. Those seeking a private prescription will find more flexible eligibility criteria but at a significant personal cost, often with the benefit of integrated support programs. Both pathways require the medication to be used alongside significant lifestyle changes for the most effective and sustainable results. It is a prescription-only medication and a careful medical assessment is required before commencing any treatment.
