Wegovy Pill Approved in the UK
A pill version of the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy has been approved in the UK, allowing people to obtain it via prescription in the near future.
This marks the first tablet of its kind to receive clearance from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Manufacturer Novo Nordisk states that the once-daily tablet may offer greater convenience for some patients compared to the weekly injections of GLP-1 medication, which reduces appetite. Additionally, unlike the injectable form, the pills do not require refrigeration.
However, the pill will not be available on the National Health Service (NHS) until experts evaluate and decide whether to recommend it.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), responsible for such decisions, noted that Novo Nordisk has not yet formally approached them regarding the pill but that they are "in active dialogue" with the company.
Some high street and online pharmacies intend to include the pill in their doctor prescribing services.
Dosage and Availability
The MHRA specifies that the starting dose for the tablet is 1.5 mg once daily, with gradual escalation to 4 mg, 9 mg, and 25 mg, maintaining each dose level for a minimum of one month.
Patients currently receiving private treatment with a 2.4 mg semaglutide injection once weekly can transition directly to 25 mg semaglutide tablets taken once daily.
The tablets should be taken on an empty stomach and are already available in the United States. Other pharmaceutical companies have developed or are developing competing products.
The cost of Wegovy tablets in the UK has not yet been determined. When launched in the US, the manufacturer priced the starting 1.5 mg dose at $149 (approximately £110) per month.
How Wegovy Works
Similar to the injectable form, the tablets contain semaglutide, which mimics the effects of a natural hormone called GLP-1. This hormone suppresses appetite and slows digestion, helping users feel fuller and less hungry.
Expert Opinions and Guidance
Olivier Picard, Chair of the National Pharmacy Association, described the pill's approval as "significant," adding that it could benefit patients who cannot or prefer not to use the injectable version.
"Pharmacies are awaiting further guidance about when this treatment will be available for patients," he added.
He also suggested that the pill may reduce treatment costs over time.
Clinical Trials and Usage Considerations
Clinical trials indicate that the tablets are safe and effective, although, like the injection, it can take several months to experience full benefits. There is also a risk that weight may be regained after discontinuing the medication.
Patients using weight-loss medication should maintain a healthy diet and engage in sufficient physical activity.
GLP-1 drugs are not intended for short-term or cosmetic weight loss. Health experts strongly advise against using them as a quick solution to achieve a "beach body," although misuse has been reported.
As with any medication, side effects can occur, including nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, and vomiting.
Obesity Statistics in the UK
Approximately one-third of UK adults—more than 16 million people—are classified as obese.
