How to Get Wegovy in the UK
Wegovy is the licensed semaglutide option for weight loss. You can access it through the NHS (if eligible) or privately. Here's exactly how.
Quick Eligibility Check
NHS Eligibility
- BMI 35+ OR
- BMI 30-34.9 + weight-related condition
- Previous weight loss attempts documented
Private Eligibility
- BMI 30+ OR
- BMI 27+ with weight-related health concern
- Requirements vary by provider
NHS vs Private: Which Route Is Right for You?
- No ongoing medication cost
- Integrated healthcare support
- Specialist oversight
- Must meet strict criteria
- Waiting times (weeks to months)
- GP cannot prescribe directly
Best for: Those who meet criteria, can wait, and want integrated NHS support at no cost.
- Start within days
- Lower BMI threshold (typically 27+)
- Choose your provider
- Costs £150-£300/month
- Quality varies between providers
- Must verify provider legitimacy
Best for: Those wanting faster access, who don't meet NHS criteria, or can't wait for NHS referral.
NHS Route: Step-by-Step
How to access Wegovy through the NHS weight management pathway.
Check Your Eligibility
Before approaching your GP, check if you meet NICE criteria:
- • BMI 35 or higher, OR
- • BMI 30-34.9 with weight-related condition (diabetes, high BP, sleep apnoea, etc.)
- • Lower thresholds may apply for certain ethnic groups
Book a GP Appointment
Speak to your GP about your weight and health. Be prepared to discuss:
- • Previous weight loss attempts (diets, exercise, other medications)
- • How your weight affects your health and daily life
- • Any weight-related health conditions you have
- • Your motivation for treatment
Request Referral to Weight Management Service
Ask your GP to refer you to your local specialist weight management service (sometimes called Tier 3 or Tier 4 services). Your GP cannot prescribe Wegovy directly - it must come through the specialist team.
Tip: Ask about wait times. If very long, you may wish to start privately while waiting.
Specialist Assessment
The weight management team will comprehensively assess you including:
- • Full medical history and blood tests
- • Physical examination
- • Assessment of eating patterns and lifestyle
- • Mental health screening
- • Discussion of treatment options
Start Treatment
If approved for Wegovy, you'll start the titration schedule under specialist supervision. You'll begin at 0.25mg weekly and increase over 16-20 weeks to the maintenance dose of 2.4mg.
Ongoing Care
You'll have regular follow-ups to monitor progress, manage side effects, and ensure the treatment is working. NHS guidelines typically review continued use at 6 and 12 months based on weight loss achieved.
Private Route: Step-by-Step
How to get Wegovy through a private provider.
Step 1: Choose a Legitimate Provider
Select a GPhC-registered online pharmacy or private weight loss clinic. Always verify their registration before proceeding.
Look for:
- • GPhC registration displayed
- • UK prescribers
- • Clear pricing
Avoid:
- • Social media sellers
- • No prescription required
- • Prices too low
Step 2: Complete Medical Assessment
Fill out a comprehensive questionnaire covering:
- • Medical history and current conditions
- • Medications and allergies
- • Height, weight, and BMI calculation
- • Weight loss goals and history
- • Sometimes recent blood test results
Step 3: Prescriber Review
A qualified prescriber reviews your information. They may approve, request more information, schedule a consultation, or decline if Wegovy isn't suitable for you.
Step 4: Consultation (If Required)
Some providers require a phone or video consultation, especially for new patients. This is a positive sign - it shows they're taking prescribing seriously.
Step 5: Receive Your Prescription
If approved, pay for your prescription and receive Wegovy via temperature-controlled delivery (usually within 24-72 hours). You'll start with 0.25mg and follow the standard titration.
How to Verify a Private Provider
1. Check GPhC Registration
Visit the GPhC pharmacy register and search for the pharmacy name. Verify the registration number matches what's displayed on their website.
2. Look for the EU Common Logo
Legitimate online pharmacies should display the EU common logo (green and white cross design) which links to the MHRA register.
3. Verify Prescriber Credentials
Check that prescribers are registered with the GMC (doctors), NMC (nurses), or GPhC (pharmacist prescribers).
4. Read Independent Reviews
Check Trustpilot and Google reviews. Be wary of providers with no reviews or only perfect scores.
Starting Privately While Waiting for NHS
Many people start Wegovy privately while on the NHS waiting list. Here's what to know:
- Keep your NHS referral active
Don't cancel your referral - you may be able to transfer to NHS care later
- Inform your GP
Let your GP know you're taking Wegovy privately so it's on your medical record
- Keep treatment records
Document your doses, side effects, and weight loss to share with NHS team
- Plan for transition
When your NHS appointment comes, discuss transferring your care
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Wegovy is a prescription medication requiring assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult with your doctor before starting any weight loss medication.