Key facts
- The Wegovy weight loss pill is now available for private purchase in UK pharmacies.
- It contains semaglutide and works by mimicking a gut hormone to reduce appetite.
- Eligibility requires a BMI of 30+ or 27-30 with weight-related health conditions.
- A consultation is necessary before purchasing the pill.
- Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea.
- The pill must be taken on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before food or drink.
The once-daily Wegovy weight loss pill, containing the same active ingredient semaglutide as its injectable counterpart, is now available for private purchase in the UK. This development marks the first time a tablet of its kind has been cleared by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
The pill is intended for individuals with a BMI of 30 or above, or those with a BMI between 27-30 who also have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. A consultation, either online or face-to-face, is required to ensure the medication is appropriate for the patient.
Both the pill and injection work by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite by making individuals feel fuller and less hungry. Clinical trials have shown similar effectiveness for both forms, with participants taking Wegovy tablets losing an average of 13.61% of their body weight over 64 weeks, compared to 2.18% in the placebo group.
However, there are differences in administration. While the injection is a once-weekly jab, the tablet requires strict adherence to a daily schedule: it must be taken on an empty stomach after at least eight hours of fasting and at least 30 minutes before consuming any food or drink. The starting dose is 1.5mg daily, with potential increases to a maximum of 25mg daily over several months.
Common side effects for both forms include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. More serious, though rarer, complications can include low blood sugar, pancreatitis, and severe allergic reactions. The medication is not suitable for individuals under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Pricing for the Wegovy pill varies by pharmacy, with introductory offers potentially lowering initial costs. Current pricing suggests a range of £99 for the lowest dose (1.5mg) to £199 for the highest dose (25mg) for a 30-day supply. The manufacturer's US launch price for the lowest dose was around $149 (£110).
While the pill has received MHRA clearance, its availability on the NHS hinges on a recommendation from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which will assess trial data and cost-effectiveness. Health experts emphasize that GLP-1 drugs are not intended for short-term or cosmetic weight loss and should be considered for long-term management, akin to medications for blood pressure or cholesterol.