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Is Wegovy prescription-only?

By Joe Young | Medically reviewed by Hassan Thwaini
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Wegovy, a weight loss medication containing semaglutide, has quickly become a prominent solution for obesity management. 

Let’s take a closer look. 

Regulatory approval and status in the UK

The UK's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved Wegovy for weight loss and weight maintenance in adults with obesity (BMI over 30) or those who are overweight (BMI 27-30) and have at least one weight-related health condition. Recently, it also gained approval for treating cardiovascular issues.1

Wegovy is a prescription-only medication, a classification reflecting the need for patients to be treated under the care and supervision of a prescribing healthcare professional. As a licensed medicine, Wegovy is a regulated treatment option designed for those with a clinical need.

Why is Wegovy prescription-only?

There are several reasons why Wegovy is a prescription-only medication:

  1. Safety and monitoring

    Wegovy isn't without risks. Side effects can range from mild digestive issues to severe conditions like pancreatitis and gallbladder disease.3 Requiring a prescription ensures that healthcare professionals can assess and monitor patients closely, catching and managing any adverse effects early.

  2. Appropriate use

    Obesity management is complex. By restricting Wegovy to those with a prescription, healthcare providers can integrate it into a broader, personalised treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes and possibly other medical interventions. This ensures Wegovy is used effectively and responsibly.

  3. Preventing misuse

    If Wegovy didn't require a prescription, the risk of misuse or overuse would be much higher. People desperate for quick weight loss might take more than the recommended dose or take it unnecessarily, leading to dangerous consequences. Prescription-only status ensures that only trained healthcare professionals authorise its use.

  4. Contraindications and interactions

    Not everyone is a candidate for Wegovy. Some conditions, like a history of some thyroid cancers, amongst other health conditions, make its use risky.4 Healthcare professionals are essential in assessing these contraindications and ensuring that only suitable patients receive this medication.

The numan take

In the UK, Wegovy is a prescription-only medication. This ensures that those who need it and are eligible for it, can get comprehensive, safe, and effective treatment for obesity and weight management under the vigilant guidance of healthcare professionals. Don’t take any chances with your health - be sure to seek medical advice before starting with any treatment. 

References

  1. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. (2024, July 23). MHRA approves GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide to reduce risk of serious heart problems in obese or overweight adults. GOV.UK. Retrieved August 9, 2024, from https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-approves-glp-1-receptor-agonist-semaglutide-to-reduce-risk-of-serious-heart-problems-in-obese-or-overweight-adults

  2. Novo Nordisk. (n.d.). Tips for managing common side effects (Week 2). Wegovy. Retrieved August 9, 2024, from https://www.wegovy.com/dashboard/my-library/week-02-tips-for-managing-common-side-effects.html#:~:text=Common%20side%20effects%20of%20Wegovy,runny%20nose%20or%20sore%20throat.

  3. Novo Nordisk. (2024). Wegovy® FAQs. Retrieved August 9, 2024, from https://www.wegovy.com/dashboard/my-library/week-02-tips-for-managing-common-side-effects.html

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