Introduction to Wegovy
Wegovy has taken the country by storm and has quickly become one of the leading medications for weight loss in the UK. Wegovy is a UK-licensed pharmaceutical used to support significant and sustainable weight loss. This advanced prescription medication is specifically designed to help individuals reduce excess weight and maintain a healthy body composition. Clinical trials have demonstrated that, on average, adults using Wegovy achieve a weight loss of approximately 15% of their initial body weight, which equates to about 35 pounds. New clinical trials (SELECT) conducted on Wegovy have shown a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events in patient populations. Furthermore Wegovy is unique in that it does not alter the effectiveness of birth control pills, allowing you to manage your weight without compromising your contraceptive protection. Wegovy has quickly gained recognition and become one of the leading weight loss medications in the UK.
Licenses and Approvals
Wegovy is one of the few medications granted a specific license for weight loss in the United Kingdom, distinguishing it from medications like Ozempic, which is primarily approved for the management of diabetes. Wegovy's UK licensing for weight loss highlights its efficacy in assisting individuals with their weight loss goals. In contrast, Ozempic, while globally approved for diabetes management, is primarily intended to improve glycaemic control. Wegovy's specialized license underscores its role as a dedicated and effective weight management solution, further supporting individuals in their journey toward improved health.
Benefits for Wegovy
Wegovy offers several key benefits for individuals seeking to achieve and maintain weight loss, including the following:
Expected Weight Loss
Clinical studies show that Wegovy helps individuals lose approximately 15% of their initial body weight, with one in three adults losing up to 46 pounds. This makes Wegovy an excellent option for those aiming to reduce weight and improve their overall health.
Appetite Control
Wegovy targets appetite-regulating centres in the brain, reducing cravings and helping to prevent overeating, which can contribute to sustainable weight loss.
Sustained Results
Wegovy promotes long-term weight management. Clinical trials indicate that those who continued using Wegovy maintained or furthered their weight loss progress.
How Are Wegovy and Mounjaro Different?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are both injectable treatments used to support weight management, but they work in slightly different ways and may suit different patients. Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while Mounjaro targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which may offer added benefits for some individuals. Both medications are taken once weekly and can be highly effective when combined with lifestyle changes. Choosing between them depends on factors such as treatment goals, side effect profile, availability, and individual response, which is why professional guidance is essential.
| Feature | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Name | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Mechanism | Dual GLP-1 & GIP receptor agonist | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Weight Loss Efficacy | Mean weight loss over 72 weeks: 15% (5 mg), 19.5% (10 mg), 21% (15 mg); some variability | Mean weight loss at 2.4 mg: ~15%; some patients lost more than 15% |
| Cardiovascular Benefit | Not fully established; currently under investigation | Shown to reduce CV risk by ~20% |
| Dosing Frequency | Once weekly | Once weekly |
| Available Strengths | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg | 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, 2.4 mg (7.2 mg upcoming) |
| Titration | Gradual weekly increases to reach target dose | Gradual weekly increases to reach target dose |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, headache | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, headache |
| Price (UK Sept 2025) | £133–£330 depending on strength; set to rise ~170% | No anticipated price increase |
| Contraception | Additional barrier method required on top of normal contraceptives | No effect on oral contraceptives |
| Availability / Supply | May be limited due to upcoming price hike and supply pauses | Widely available, no anticipated supply issues |
Some patients may need to switch between Wegovy and Mounjaro, either because of supply challenges or personal preference. While there are no clinical trials that directly study switching from one to the other, the process can be managed safely with guidance from a healthcare professional.
A short break between treatments is usually recommended. Most patients benefit from a washout period of around 7–14 days before starting the new medication. This helps reduce the chance of overlapping side effects and gives the body time to adjust.
Since the right approach depends on factors such as your medical history, current dosage, and treatment goals, our clinical team carefully reviews each case to make sure the transition is smooth and that you begin on the correct dose.
The table below outlines a guide for patients moving from Mounjaro to Wegovy.
| Mounjaro Dose | Guide for Wegovy Switch |
|---|---|
| 2.5mg | 0.5mg |
| 5mg | 0.5mg |
| 7.5mg | 1mg |
| 10mg | 1mg |
| 12.5mg | 1.7mg |
| 15mg | 2.4mg |
Wegovy is consistently priced lower than Mounjaro across all equivalent dosing levels, making it the more cost-effective option for most patients. While some individuals on lower doses of Mounjaro may still find the treatment manageable, those on higher doses often benefit from switching to Wegovy to help reduce costs while maintaining treatment effectiveness.
| Wegovy Strength | IQDoctor Wegovy Price (£) | Mounjaro Strength | Mounjaro Prices (£) after Sep 1st |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.25mg | 129.99 | 2.5mg | 174.99 |
| 0.5mg | 127.99 | 5mg | 194.99 |
| 1.0mg | 127.99 | 7.5mg | 244.99 |
| 1.7mg | 199.99 | 10mg | 274.99 |
| 2.4mg | 241.99 | 12.5mg | 294.99 |
| 7.2mg | Coming soon | 15mg | 304.99 |
Precautions For Use Of Wegovy
Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting Wegovy to determine if it is the appropriate option for you and to discuss any potential risks or interactions with other medications.
Most individuals taking Wegovy experience mild side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, upset stomach, dizziness, bloating, belching, gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and a runny nose or sore throat.
Wegovy may also cause serious side effects, including:
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): If you experience severe, persistent abdominal pain, with or without vomiting, contact your healthcare provider immediately. The pain may radiate from the abdomen to the back.
Gallbladder problems: Wegovy may lead to gallbladder issues, including gallstones, some of which may require surgery. Contact your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or clay-coloured stools.
Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar): Individuals with type 2 diabetes, especially those taking medications such as sulfonylureas or insulin, may experience an increased risk of low blood sugar. This is both a common and potentially serious side effect. Talk to your healthcare provider about recognising and managing low blood sugar. Symptoms may include dizziness, blurred vision, anxiety, irritability, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, fast heartbeat, or feeling jittery. Be sure to check your blood sugar before and during treatment with Wegovy.
Kidney problems: In individuals with existing kidney issues, diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting can lead to dehydration, worsening kidney function. It is important to stay hydrated to minimise this risk.
Serious allergic reactions: Discontinue use of Wegovy and seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe rash or itching, fainting, dizziness, or rapid heartbeat.
Vision changes in individuals with type 2 diabetes: Notify your healthcare provider if you experience any changes in vision while taking Wegovy.
Increased heart rate: Wegovy can cause an increased heart rate at rest. If you experience a racing or pounding heart lasting several minutes, inform your healthcare provider.
Mental health concerns (depression or thoughts of suicide): Pay close attention to any new or worsening mental health symptoms, such as changes in mood, behaviours, thoughts, or feelings. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any concerning changes.
Do not use Wegovy if you:
Have or have had a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a type of thyroid cancer, or if you have a condition known as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Have had a serious allergic reaction to Semaglutide or any ingredient in Wegovy.
Before using Wegovy, inform your healthcare provider if you have any of the following conditions:
A history of pancreatic or kidney problems.
Type 2 diabetes with a history of diabetic retinopathy.
A history of depression, suicidal thoughts, or mental health issues.
Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Wegovy may harm an unborn baby, and you should stop using it at least 2 months before trying to conceive.
Are you breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed? As it is unknown whether Wegovy passes into breast milk.
Always consult your healthcare provider for the most personalised and accurate advice.
Order Journey — Step by Step
Note: Next Day Delivery is counted from the time your prescription is approved by our prescriber, not from when you place your order.
Online Questionnaire
Complete our secure medical questionnaire so our prescribers can confirm treatment is safe and suitable for you.
Order & Payment
Place your order and pay — payment is held securely while the prescriber reviews your case.
If it's not suitable you will receive a full refund.Upload Images
Upload BMI images, a copy of your ID, and any additional evidence (if requested).
Check your spam/junk folder to avoid delays.Prescriber Review
A qualified clinician reviews your questionnaire and images. Respond promptly to any follow-up requests to avoid delays.
Approval & Dispatch
Once approved, we aim to dispatch for next-day delivery. Orders approved after the cut-off will be sent the next working day.
We take every step to maintain cold chain conditions (2°C – 8°C) during storage and transport of your Wegovy (Semaglutide Injection) , as this provides a stable environment for the medicine.
Once your Pen Arrives:
- We recommend placing it in your refrigerator (2°C – 8°C) until you are ready to use it.
- Protect it from light by keeping it in its original carton.
- Do not freeze — if frozen, the pen should not be used.
If your pen arrives at room temperature (up to 30°C), you can still use it.
- Wegovy (Semaglutide Injection) can be kept at temperatures up to 30°C for a maximum of 6 weeks
- Your 4 doses will take 21 days to complete based on a 7 day injection cycle so there is ample time to complete your course.
- Store away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Always attach the pen cap before storage and never store with a needle attached.
Wegovy Frequently Asked Questions
The brand name for semaglutide, Wegovy is a once-weekly injection used to support long-term, sustained weight management.Wegovy works by mimicking a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) that helps regulate appetite, making you feel fuller for longer and reducing overall food intake.
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription medication for adults who are looking to lose weight and improve health outcomes related directly to obesity. It is generally recommended for:
- Adults with obesity: Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher
- Adults who are overweight: BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
Wegovy works alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to help achieve and maintain weight loss.
Although Wegovy is licensed for people younger than 18, our clinic only serves patients aged 18 to 75 years. This is because additional precautions are required when prescribing and monitoring medication as part of a distance-selling service.
- Wegovy is a once-weekly injection in the tummy, thigh, or upper arm
- The dose is started low and increased gradually to reduce side effects
- It is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for best results
Losing weight with Wegovy isn’t just about appearance. Clinical trials have shown improvements in:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol and blood sugar levels
- Mobility and physical function
- Overall quality of life
Even a 5–10% reduction in weight can reduce the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
Wegovy (semaglutide) acts on the GLP-1 receptor to support appetite suppression and weight management, and it is available at a more affordable price point. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) targets both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, providing a dual mechanism of action for appetite control, though typically at a higher cost. Both are effective injectable options for weight management. Currently, Wegovy is the only treatment with published long-term cardiovascular outcome data.
Yes, many people can transition if supply issues or personal choice make Wegovy preferable to Mounjaro. There are no head-to-head “switch” trials, so the decision should be individualised. A healthcare professional will guide you on when to stop one and start the other.
It is advisable that all patients take a minimum 7-14 day washout period before switching over from Wegovy to Mounjaro, or vice versa. There are many factors to consider when switching and our team of expert clinicians will review your order and ensure you start at the correct dose.
Not usually. Both medications help control appetite, but they work in slightly different ways. Some people may notice a temporary increase in hunger, especially if there’s a gap between treatments or if the starting dose of Wegovy is lower than what they were used to. This effect is often short-lived, and your healthcare provider can adjust your dose to help keep appetite under control.
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are effective for weight management, but individual results vary. Clinical trials have shown average weight reductions of around 15–21% with Mounjaro (depending on dose) and about 15% with Wegovy at its full dose. In addition, Wegovy has published data showing a 20% reduction in cardiovascular risk.
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are effective for weight management, but individual results vary. Clinical trials have shown average weight reductions of around 15–21% with Mounjaro (depending on dose) and about 15% with Wegovy at its full dose. In addition, Wegovy has published data showing a 20% reduction in cardiovascular risk.
The choice often depends on personal factors such as cost, availability, treatment goals, and how well you respond to the medication. If you’re stable and progressing on Mounjaro and cost is not a concern, continuing may be the best option. If affordability or access is an issue, Wegovy can be just as effective for many people. Clinical trial data provides useful benchmarks, but your individual response matters most. Your healthcare provider will guide your treatment plan, adjust your dosing, and monitor your progress to help you achieve safe and sustainable weight loss.
Possibly.Both Mounjaro and Wegovy can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea/constipation or other gastrointestinal (GI) effects, especially when starting or increasing the dose. Some people may notice similar side effects during the initial weeks after switching to Wegovy, this is because there may be residual effects of Mounjaro still taking effect in your body whilst a new loading phase of Wegovy is introduced. Our clinicians will try to tailor your dose of Wegovy to avoid these side effects as best as possible.
- Starting at the lowest effective dose: Starting low is the best way to reduce GI side effects, but this has to be balanced with keeping your appetite at bay
- Gradual dose titration, as guided by your healthcare provider, can reduce GI symptoms
- Stay consistent: Side effects often lessen over time as your body adjusts
- Speak to your clinician: Your clinician can provide strategies to manage discomfort and monitor your response to the new medication
Wegovy can be used long-term under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Clinical studies have shown that continued use of Wegovy helps maintain weight loss and provides additional benefits, such as reduced cardiovascular risk. There is no requirement to switch back to another medication unless your clinician determines it’s necessary due to side effects, changes in health status, or personal preferences.
Yes.
After placing your order for Wegovy, your clinician will email you requesting additional documentation. You will need to upload BMI selfies and proof of your previous treatment, such as a dispensing label or an invoice dated within the last six weeks.
If you are switching from another provider of Wegovy and your BMI is under 25, you may also be asked to provide evidence of your starting weight, which can be a letter from your previous healthcare provider. This information helps your clinician determine the correct dose and plan your transition safely and effectively.
No.
Unlike Mounjaro, Wegovy does not interfere with hormonal or barrier contraceptives, so you can continue using your preferred method of birth control. It is important to maintain effective contraception if you are of childbearing potential, as weight-loss medications are generally not recommended during pregnancy. Always discuss any planned pregnancy with your healthcare provider before starting or continuing Wegovy.
Yes - new interim guidelines from the BMS provide specific recommendations for women taking GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro or Wegovy alongside HRT.
- Oestrogen: Oral oestrogen tablets may be affected because GLP-1 medications can slow digestion and reduce absorption. Your GP managing your HRT may want to switch you to a transdermal route—such as patches, gels, or sprays applied to the skin. This ensures the hormone is absorbed directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system entirely.
- Progesterone: For oral progesterone (e.g., Utrogestan), absorption may also be reduced when starting or increasing Mounjaro or Wegovy. Your GP may recommend doubling your oral progesterone dose for the first four weeks 4 weeks after initiation and for 4 weeks after each dose escalation to maintain adequate protection of the uterine lining. Alternatively, they may suggest switching to a non-oral form, such as a Mirena coil, which provides reliable, consistent local progesterone release directly where it’s needed.
Important:Never change your progesterone or oestrogen dose on your own. Always discuss any adjustments with your healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Based on UK list prices as of September 2025, Wegovy is cheaper than Mounjaro at all dose ranges. Mounjaro set prices have increased by around 170% as of September 1st 2025, Wegovy remains more affordable, making it a cost-effective alternative for many patients, particularly those on higher doses. At lower Mounjaro doses, some patients may still find it reasonable to stay on Mounjaro, but for those on higher doses, switching to Wegovy can help maintain treatment effectiveness while reducing financial burden.
Yes!
We regularly offer discount codes and money-off promotions for selected weight-loss treatments. To access these offers, you will need to create an account with us and subscribe to our email list. Once signed up, you’ll receive notifications of current discounts and special promotions directly to your inbox.
Yes. If Wegovy isn’t well tolerated - due to side effects, insufficient weight loss, or other reasons - your healthcare provider can help you switch back to Mounjaro or explore other suitable weight-loss treatments. The transition will be carefully planned, including any necessary washout period, dose adjustments, and monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Wegovy 7.2 mg is an upcoming higher-strength version of the weight-loss medication semaglutide. It’s designed for individuals who have already used and tolerated the standard 2.4 mg dose but need additional support to continue losing weight or to overcome a plateau. In clinical trials, the 7.2 mg dose of Wegovy has shown promising results, with some participants achieving up to 25% weight loss.
Novo Nordisk submitted an application for the 7.2 mg dose to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in July 2025. If approved, it is expected to be available in Europe by late 2025 or early 2026, with UK availability likely following shortly after.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that the 7.2 mg dose of Wegovy leads to substantially greater weight loss than the standard 2.4 mg dose. For example, in the STEP UP trial, participants on the 7.2 mg dose experienced an average weight loss of 21%. Additionally, about one-third of participants achieved a weight loss of 25% or more.
