GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs UK: Complete Guide
GLP-1 medications have transformed weight loss treatment in the UK. This comprehensive guide covers all available options including Wegovy, Mounjaro, Ozempic, and emerging treatments - with NHS access, private costs, and how to choose between them.
5+
Medications Covered
15-24%
Weight Loss Range
3
NHS Available
£150+
Private from/month
December 2025 Updates
- Mounjaro: GPs can now prescribe directly in many NHS areas, reducing wait times
- Wegovy: Supply shortage resolved - now widely available again
- Generic Saxenda: Liraglutide generics now available at lower cost
- Bydureon: Discontinued October 2025 - patients switching to alternatives
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1. This hormone is released by your gut after eating and plays key roles in appetite regulation and blood sugar control.
Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, these medications were found to cause significant weight loss as a "side effect." This led to the development of higher-dose versions specifically for weight management, like Wegovy.
Acts on brain receptors to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier to eat less.
Delays stomach emptying so food stays longer, helping you feel satisfied for extended periods after meals.
Improves insulin secretion when needed, beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
UK GLP-1 Medications Compared
Here's a comprehensive comparison of all GLP-1 and related medications available or coming soon in the UK:
| Medication | Mechanism | Licensed For | Weight Loss | Private Cost | NHS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy Semaglutide 2.4mg | GLP-1 | Weight Loss | ~15% | £150-£280/mo | |
| Mounjaro Tirzepatide | Dual | T2D + Weight Loss | ~21% | £180-£320/mo | |
| Ozempic Semaglutide 1mg | GLP-1 | Type 2 Diabetes | ~5-6% | £140-£220/mo | |
| Saxenda Liraglutide 3mg | GLP-1 | Weight Loss | ~8% | £150-£250/mo | |
| Retatrutide Triple Agonist | Triple | In Trials | ~24% | N/A |
Detailed Medication Guides
Weight Loss
~15%
Private Cost
£150-£300/mo
NHS
Available
Weight Loss
~21%
Private Cost
£200-£350/mo
NHS
Available
Weight Loss
~5-6%
Private Cost
£150-£250/mo
NHS
T2D Only
Weight Loss
~24%
Status
Phase 3 Trials
Expected
2026+
Stay Updated on GLP-1 Medications
Get notified about availability changes, price updates, and new research. Plus receive our free UK medication guide when it launches.
NHS vs Private Access
- Free if eligible for treatment
- Requires BMI 35+ (or 30+ with conditions)
- Must be referred to specialist service
- Waiting lists can be months long
- Max 2 years treatment typically
- £150-£350/month depending on medication
- Lower BMI threshold (usually 27-30+)
- Quick access - often within days
- No treatment duration limits
- Verify GPhC registration always
How to Choose the Right Medication
Choosing between GLP-1 medications depends on several factors:
Weight Loss Goals
If maximum weight loss is priority, tirzepatide (Mounjaro) shows the best results (~21%). Wegovy is excellent at ~15%. For modest weight loss with diabetes, Ozempic may suffice.
Budget
If paying privately, Ozempic and Wegovy are typically cheaper than Mounjaro. If eligible for NHS, cost isn't a factor but access may be limited.
Existing Conditions
If you have type 2 diabetes, any GLP-1 will help both conditions. If you only want weight loss, stick to licensed options (Wegovy, Mounjaro) rather than off-label Ozempic use.
Tolerability
All GLP-1s have similar side effects, but individual tolerance varies. If one doesn't suit you, another might. Some find tirzepatide gentler despite higher efficacy.
Common Side Effects
All GLP-1 medications share similar side effects, primarily gastrointestinal. Most are mild to moderate and improve over time.
- • Nausea
- • Diarrhoea
- • Constipation
- • Vomiting
- • Stomach pain
- • Reduced appetite
- • Headache
- • Fatigue
- • Pancreatitis (severe stomach pain)
- • Gallbladder problems
- • Severe allergic reactions
- • Kidney problems (with dehydration)
- • Thyroid tumours (theoretical risk)
Frequently Asked Questions
Individual Medication Guides
References & Sources
- NICE Technology Appraisals: Semaglutide (TA875) and Tirzepatide (TA924)
- MHRA. Summary of Product Characteristics for Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro.
- Wilding JPH, et al. STEP Trials. NEJM 2021.
- Jastreboff AM, et al. SURMOUNT-1 Trial. NEJM 2022.
All GLP-1 Guides
Cost & Access Guides
Medical Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. GLP-1 medications are prescription-only and require assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor before starting any weight loss medication. Individual results vary.
Last updated: December 2025
Stay Updated on GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications
Get notified about availability changes, price updates, and new research. Plus receive our free UK medication guide when it launches.