Is Wegovy Approved By The MHRA?

Wegovy (semaglutide) has gained significant attention as a weight loss medication, especially for adults struggling with obesity. But is it approved by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) for use in the UK? This guide explores the approval status of Wegovy, its intended use and what it means for those looking for weight loss options.

Key Takeaways

MHRA-Approved for Weight Loss

Wegovy (semaglutide) is MHRA-approved in the UK specifically for weight loss, making it accessible to eligible individuals through a prescription. This approval ensures Wegovy has been rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness in weight management.

Eligibility for Wegovy

Wegovy may be prescribed to UK adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or those with a BMI of 27+ with a related health condition like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. A healthcare provider will assess each individual to determine if Wegovy is suitable.

How Wegovy Works

Wegovy targets the areas of the brain that control appetite, helping to reduce hunger and calorie intake, especially when combined with a healthy diet and exercise, which gradually supports weight loss.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is a prescription-only medication that contains semaglutide. This helps suitable individuals manage their weight by mimicking a hormone in the body that reduces appetite. Unlike Ozempic, which is primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is designed specifically for weight loss.

Has the MHRA approved Wegovy in the UK?

Yes, the MHRA has approved Wegovy [1] in the United Kingdom. This approval allows people who meet specific health criteria to access Wegovy through a healthcare professional. The decision to prescribe this medication is made on an individual basis, ensuring that it is safe and suitable for each person.

Who can be prescribed Wegovy?

In the UK, Wegovy may be prescribed to adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 [2] or above or those with a BMI of 27 or above with a weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. To get Wegovy from UK Meds, patients must go through our online consultation form which will be reviewed by a registered prescriber who will decide if Wegovy is appropriate for them.

Why is Wegovy different from Ozempic?

While both Wegovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide, they are prescribed for different purposes. Ozempic is aimed at controlling blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, whereas Wegovy is specifically formulated and approved for weight loss. This difference is essential, as only Wegovy is MHRA-approved for weight management.

How does Wegovy work for weight loss?

Wegovy helps with weight loss by targeting areas of the brain that regulate appetite. By reducing feelings of hunger, Wegovy helps people to consume fewer calories. Over time this leads to gradual weight loss, especially when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

What does MHRA approval mean for you?

MHRA approval signifies that Wegovy has been rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness in the UK. It also means that Wegovy is available under medical supervision, ensuring it’s used safely. Before being prescribed Wegovy, each patient needs to undergo an assessment to check for any potential risks and suitability.

How can you access Wegovy in the UK?

In the UK, you cannot buy Wegovy over the counter. It is only available through a prescription following an in-person or online consultation with a registered healthcare provider. This consultation process ensures Wegovy is prescribed safely and to those who can benefit from it.

Beginner’s Guide To Wegovy For Weight Loss

Discover everything you need to know about Wegovy for weight loss in our beginner's guide. This comprehensive overview explains how Wegovy works, whether it’s approved by the MHRA, who it’s suitable for, and much more. If you’re curious about how Semaglutide supports weight management or want to compare Wegovy with similar treatments like Mounjaro, this guide has you covered. Read on to see if Wegovy could be the right step in your weight loss journey, with all requests for supply subject to an online clinical consultation and the approval of a registered independent prescriber.

References

[1] MHRA approves GLP –1 receptor agonist semaglutide to reduce risk of serious heart problems in obese or overweight adults - GOV.UK

[2] Wegovy: what you need to know about the weight loss injection - BHF