Wegovy FAQs
Read answers to common Wegovy questions including results, dosing, side effects and eligibility.
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Read answers to common Wegovy questions including results, dosing, side effects and eligibility.
Published

Wegovy is a once-weekly injection of semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps reduce appetite and support weight loss alongside diet and activity.
NICE recommends semaglutide for adults with overweight/obesity within specialist weight-management services and specific criteria (e.g., BMI thresholds and comorbidities). It’s used for up to 2 years within a multidisciplinary programme.
Yes—many UK providers offer private prescriptions if you meet clinical criteria. NHS access is via specialist services; private access follows UK licensing and clinical assessment.
It’s injected once weekly with dose increases over time as advised by your prescriber, using a pre-filled pen.
If it’s within 5 days of your scheduled dose, take it as soon as you remember; if more than 5 days have passed, skip it and take the next dose on your usual day. Don’t double up.
Under the skin of the stomach, thigh, upper arm, or buttocks—rotate sites each week.
Common: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea/constipation, and reduced appetite—usually easing as your body adjusts. Seek medical help for severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis) or gallbladder symptoms.
Do not use if you’ve had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), MEN2, or severe allergy to semaglutide/ingredients. Your prescriber will check for other contraindications.
There’s no absolute ban, but alcohol can worsen nausea and may undermine weight-loss efforts. Your clinician may advise limiting intake.
Wegovy isn’t recommended in pregnancy or while breastfeeding; you’ll usually be advised to stop before trying to conceive. Check with your prescriber and follow the patient leaflet.
Follow your pen’s leaflet (usually refrigerated before first use and specific rules after first use). Keep out of children’s reach and do not freeze.
Results vary. Clinical guidance stresses using Wegovy alongside lifestyle support; your team will monitor progress and decide on continuation.
Switching needs clinical oversight and a washout period between weekly injections; your prescriber will advise the safest plan.