Weight Loss Injection Cost UK 2026: Ozempic, Wegovy & Mounjaro

What is Wegovy and how does it work?

Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide at a dose of 2.4mg, manufactured by Novo Nordisk. It belongs to a class of medicines called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a hormone released naturally after eating. By activating GLP-1 receptors, semaglutide reduces appetite, slows gastric emptying and influences areas of the brain associated with hunger and satiety.

Clinical trials showed that adults taking semaglutide 2.4mg alongside lifestyle intervention lost an average of around 15% of body weight over 68 weeks, compared with around 2.4% on placebo. Results vary between individuals. Wegovy is administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection using a pre-filled pen device, with the dose increased gradually over several months.

Is Wegovy available on the NHS?

Wegovy is available on the NHS in England but access is tightly controlled. NICE approved Wegovy in 2023 subject to specific criteria. NHS prescribing is limited to specialist weight management services and requires a body mass index of 35 or above (or 30 or above in certain high-risk groups), at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension, and referral through an NHS Tier 3 or Tier 4 specialist service. NICE guidance restricts NHS use to a maximum two-year course.

Waiting times for NHS specialist weight management services are long in most areas. Availability varies significantly by integrated care board. Patients should speak to their GP about referral pathways in their local area.

What does Wegovy cost privately in the UK?

Private prescription costs for Wegovy range from approximately £150 to £300 per month, depending on the provider, dose stage and whether consultations are included. Costs are higher at the maintenance dose of 2.4mg than at lower starter doses. Over a 12-month period, private Wegovy treatment at maintenance dose typically costs between £1,800 and £3,600 in total, excluding any additional monitoring costs.

What is the Wegovy pill and is it available in the UK?

Novo Nordisk has been developing an oral tablet formulation of semaglutide for weight management. As of June 2026, no oral semaglutide product had received MHRA approval for weight management in the UK. Clinical trial results published in 2025 showed the oral formulation at the highest tested dose produced weight loss broadly comparable to the injectable version. Any approval would follow the standard MHRA and NICE assessment process, typically taking one to two years from trial data submission.

How does Wegovy compare to Ozempic?

Ozempic contains semaglutide at a maximum dose of 1mg and is licensed in the UK for type 2 diabetes, not weight management. Prescribing Ozempic for weight loss in a patient without type 2 diabetes is off-label use. Wegovy at 2.4mg delivers a higher dose and was specifically trialled and approved for weight management. The use of Ozempic off-label for weight loss has contributed to supply shortages affecting patients with type 2 diabetes who rely on it for glycaemic control.

What is Mounjaro and how does it compare?

Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide, manufactured by Eli Lilly. It acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, distinguishing it from semaglutide products. Clinical trial data suggests tirzepatide produces greater average weight loss than semaglutide, with some participants losing more than 20% of body weight. Mounjaro received MHRA approval for weight management in the UK in 2023 and is available via private prescription at approximately £150 to £250 per month.

What are the side effects of weight loss injections?

The most commonly reported side effects are gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation. These are most pronounced when doses are increased and typically reduce over time. More serious but less common effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems and, in rare cases, serious allergic reactions. These medicines are not appropriate for patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.

Who is eligible for weight loss injections in the UK?

On the NHS, Wegovy requires a BMI of 35 or above and at least one weight-related comorbidity, accessed through specialist services. Private providers typically require a BMI of 30 or above and completion of a medical questionnaire. Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers, and a history of pancreatitis.

How much weight can you lose on Wegovy?

Clinical trial data shows average weight loss of around 15% of starting body weight over approximately 68 weeks for participants taking semaglutide 2.4mg alongside a lifestyle programme. Individual results vary significantly. Weight loss is not guaranteed and these medicines are intended to be used alongside dietary changes and increased physical activity.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get Wegovy on the NHS?

Yes, but access is restricted to NHS specialist weight management services. You must meet NICE criteria including a BMI of 35 or above and at least one weight-related health condition. Speak to your GP about referral options in your area.

How much does Wegovy cost per month in the UK?

Private prescription costs range from approximately £150 to £300 per month depending on dose stage and provider. Annual costs at maintenance dose typically range from £1,800 to £3,600.

Is Ozempic the same as Wegovy?

Both contain semaglutide but at different doses and for different licensed indications. Ozempic at up to 1mg is licensed for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy at 2.4mg is licensed for weight management. They are not interchangeable.

What is the Wegovy pill?

An oral semaglutide tablet for weight management is in late-stage development. It had not received MHRA approval for weight management in the UK as of June 2026.

Is Mounjaro better than Wegovy for weight loss?

Clinical trial data suggests tirzepatide (Mounjaro) produces greater average weight loss across trial populations. The appropriate choice depends on individual medical history and should be decided with a healthcare professional.