Wegovy is a prescription-only weight loss injection containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It’s designed to help reduce appetite and support sustainable weight loss in people with obesity or weight-related health conditions. But who can take Wegovy, and is it suitable for you?
Let’s find out. In this guide, we break down:
- NHS criteria for Wegovy prescriptions
- Private eligibility for Wegovy injections
- Who should not take Wegovy
- Common side effects and precautions
- What to expect during treatment
Wegovy NHS Eligibility
You can get Wegovy through the NHS if you meet the NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) criteria:
- BMI of 35 or more, with at least one weight-related health condition (e.g., high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes)
- BMI of 30 or more in some cases, such as those from certain ethnic backgrounds or with lower thresholds for obesity-related risks
- Enrolled in a specialist NHS weight management service (tier 3)
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Wegovy Private Prescription Eligibility
If you don't meet the NHS criteria or simply want quicker access to Wegovy injections, you can get a private prescription from a licensed clinic such as Dr Frank's Weight Loss Clinic.
You may be suitable for private treatment if you have:
- A BMI of 27+ with a weight-related condition
- A BMI over 30, even without existing health issues
Wegovy Considerations
Although Wegovy can be extremely beneficial, there are certain things to consider before - and whilst - taking it. From taking the right dosage to making long-term lifestyle changes, here are some considerations:
Take The Appropriate Dose
You must adhere to the right dosage instructions when taking Wegovy. You will gradually increase your dose over the span of 16-17 weeks until you reach the full maintenance dose. Here is the typical dosing schedule:
- 0.25 mg once a week until week 4
- 0.5 mg once a week until week 8
- 1 mg once a week until week 12
- 1.7 mg once a week until week 16
- 2.4 mg once a week - maintenance dose
Only change your dose when instructed to do so by your doctor. Your doctor may adjust your dose if you experience side effects.
Always Consult a Healthcare Professional
Always consult your doctor when - and before - taking Wegovy. Your doctor will determine whether it’s a right fit for you, and manage your dosage as needed. They will also advise you on the correct injection method, how to store your medication, and how to dispose of your used injections.
Wegovy is intended for long-term use, so it’s important to regularly check in with your doctor to ensure your Wegovy treatment is safe and effective throughout your course of treatment.
Consider Side Effects
Wegovy side effects are usually mild and short-term, but it’s important to be aware of them so you can prepare. Some potential side effects may include:
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhoea
Most side effects will subside when your body adjusts to the medication. If side effects persist or worsen, consult with your doctor.
Consider Potential Long-Term Effects
On the box, Wegovy warns about the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumours, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). A large-scale study found that Wegovy did not significantly increase the risk of thyroid cancer compared to other diabetes medications.
Serious side effects are uncommon with Wegovy, but some potential long-term effects may include gallbladder problems, increased heart rate, low blood sugar, and pancreatitis.
Make Lifestyle Changes
Wegovy gives you the opportunity to create and maintain healthy habits to help you lose weight, and keep it off for good. The medication becomes much more effective when you combine it with lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise. Learn more about how long Wegovy takes to work here.
When you engage with a treatment plan - including regular follow-ups, you are far more likely to see positive results. Work closely with your doctor to achieve your goals.
At Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, we can provide you with ongoing support to help you make lasting changes. We can help you manage your diet and ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need. Our regular check-ins and tailored approach can give you the best chance of success.
Who Should Not Take Wegovy?
Wegovy is a highly effective weight loss injection for many, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Speak to your doctor if:
- You have severe liver disease or severe kidney disease
- You have pre-proliferative or proliferative diabetic retinopathy and are taking insulin (this would be managed more carefully in conjunction with your ophthalmologist)
- You’re taking other medications that could cause drug contraindications
- You are at risk of suicidal behaviour
If you fall into any of the following categories, you should not take Wegovy:
You Are Under The Age of 18 or Over 75
The safety and efficacy of Wegovy have not been studied thoroughly in children and elderly adults, so we will not prescribe Wegovy to patients under the age of 18. The same applies to adults over the age of 75.
You Are Allergic to Semaglutide or Other Ingredients
If you have a known allergy to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy) or any of the other ingredients in the medication, you should not take it. Allergic reactions can range from skin rashes to severe symptoms like anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Some signs may include:
- Swelling of lips, tongue, throat or face
- Trouble swallowing
- Trouble breathing
- Itching
- Rash
- Rapid heartbeat
- Feeling faint
If you think you are having an allergic reaction to Semaglutide, seek medical attention immediately.
You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Wegovy is not recommended during pregnancy or if you’re planning to become pregnant in the near future. This is because the effects of Wegovy on an unborn baby are not well studied, and there is a potential risk of harm. We also don’t recommend that you take Wegovy while breastfeeding, as it’s unclear if the medication can pass into breast milk and affect your baby.
Related Blog – Can You Take Mounjaro While Pregnant?
You Have a History of Certain Thyroid Conditions
Avoid taking Wegovy if you or someone in your family has a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). These rare thyroid conditions could increase your risk of serious complications when using GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide.
You Are Experiencing Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Do not use Wegovy during an episode of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) – a potentially life-threatening condition common in people with type 1 diabetes. DKA requires urgent medical treatment, and taking Wegovy during this period can interfere with stabilisation efforts.
Begin Wegovy Treatment Today
Wegovy is one of the best injections for weight loss. It is a clinically proven option for people struggling to lose weight. Whether you qualify through the NHS or want private access, our team can help.
- From £149/month
- Online consultations
- Ongoing medical support
Start your Wegovy consultation today and take control of your health.
Key Takeaways:
Wegovy is for adults with obesity (BMI of 30+) or overweight (BMI of 27+) with at least one weight-related health issue, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
- On the NHS, Wegovy is suitable only for a limited number of patients with a BMI of 35+ with weight-related conditions or a BMI of 30+ in specific cases
- Avoid Wegovy if you are allergic, pregnant, or have a history of certain medical conditions
- Ensure you take the correct dose and are aware of the potential side effects
- Make lifestyle changes for maximum effectiveness
- You can be treated with Wegovy through Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic
