Wegovy is a popular weight loss medication that has gained attention in the UK. Many people want to know how much Wegovy costs, as it’s a prescription drug used for weight management.
This guide explains the pricing, factors affecting costs, and options for accessing Wegovy. With clear information, you can plan your weight loss journey confidently.
What Is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a weekly injectable medication containing semaglutide. It mimics a hormone that controls appetite, helping you feel full and eat less.
Approved for adults with obesity or weight-related health issues, it’s used alongside a healthy diet and exercise. Understanding its cost is key to deciding if it’s right for you.
Why Wegovy’s Cost Matters
Wegovy is effective but can be expensive, especially for private prescriptions. Knowing the price helps you budget for long-term use.
Costs vary based on dosage, provider, and whether you access it through the NHS or privately. This guide breaks down these factors in simple terms.
Wegovy on the NHS
The National Health Service (NHS) offers Wegovy to some patients. You may qualify if you have a BMI of 35 or higher with weight-related conditions, or a BMI of 30–34.9 with specific criteria. NHS prescriptions are cheaper, often costing the standard fee of about £9.35 per order. However, access is limited, and waiting lists for specialist services can be long.
NHS Eligibility Criteria
To get Wegovy on the NHS, you must meet strict guidelines. These include having obesity or weight-related issues like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. You’ll also need to commit to lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise. Speak to your GP to see if you qualify.
Limitations of NHS Access
NHS availability for Wegovy is restricted to specialist weight management services. Waiting times can range from months to years, depending on your area. Some GPs and pharmacists are starting to prescribe it, but this isn’t widespread. Private options may be faster for many patients.
Private Prescription Costs
Most people buy Wegovy through private pharmacies or online clinics. Prices for a one-month supply (one pen with four doses) typically range from £125 to £300. The cost depends on the dosage and the provider you choose. Let’s explore what affects these prices.
Dosage and Price Variations
Wegovy comes in five strengths: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg. You start with a low dose and increase every four weeks. Higher doses cost more because they contain more medication. The table below shows typical private prices for each dose.
| Dose | Price Range (Per Month) |
|---|---|
| 0.25 mg | £125–£180 |
| 0.5 mg | £150–£200 |
| 1.0 mg | £160–£210 |
| 1.7 mg | £200–£250 |
| 2.4 mg | £250–£300 |
Factors Affecting Private Costs
Several factors influence how much Wegovy costs privately. These include the pharmacy’s pricing, delivery fees, and whether consultations are included. Some providers offer subscriptions or bundles that lower the weekly cost. Always check for hidden fees before purchasing.
Where to Buy Wegovy Privately
You can buy Wegovy from online pharmacies, high street chains, or slimming clinics. Reputable providers require an online consultation to ensure the drug is safe for you. Prices vary, so comparing options can save you money. Always choose a licensed pharmacy to avoid fake medications.
Online Pharmacies
Online pharmacies like Simple Online Pharmacy, Click Pharmacy, and Oxford Online Pharmacy offer Wegovy. Prices start as low as £125 for the 0.25 mg dose.
Many include free consultations and delivery, but check for cooling fees, as Wegovy needs refrigeration. Read reviews to ensure the pharmacy is trustworthy.
High Street Pharmacies
Chains like Boots and Superdrug sell Wegovy through their online doctor services. Prices are often higher, averaging £188 for the starting dose. These pharmacies are well-known, which can provide peace of mind. However, smaller independent pharmacies may offer better deals.
Slimming Clinics
Slimming clinics like Mayfair Weight Loss Clinic provide Wegovy with added support, such as diet coaching. Prices range from £168 to £297 per month, depending on the dose. The extra services can increase costs but may help you stay on track with your weight loss goals.
Ways to Save on Wegovy
Saving money on Wegovy is possible with some planning. Here are a few tips to reduce costs:
- Buy in Bulk: Some pharmacies offer discounts for three- or six-month supplies.
- Look for Discounts: Sign up for pharmacy newsletters for first-order discounts or weekly deals.
- Compare Prices: Check multiple providers to find the lowest price for your dose.
- Consider Subscriptions: Subscription plans can lower the weekly cost and ensure a steady supply.
Price Matching Promises
Some pharmacies, like Oxford Online Pharmacy, offer price matching. If you find Wegovy cheaper elsewhere, they’ll match the price.
This can help you get the best deal without sacrificing quality. Always verify the competitor’s legitimacy before requesting a match.
Comparing Wegovy to Alternatives
Wegovy isn’t the only weight loss injection available. Alternatives like Mounjaro and Saxenda may have different costs and benefits.
Mounjaro starts at £130 per month, while Saxenda, a daily injection, can be cheaper but less effective. Discuss options with your doctor to find the best fit.
Wegovy vs. Mounjaro
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and targets two hormones for weight loss. It’s priced similarly to Wegovy, starting at £130 for the lowest dose. Some studies suggest Mounjaro may lead to greater weight loss. However, it’s not yet widely available on the NHS.
Wegovy vs. Saxenda
Saxenda, made by the same company as Wegovy, uses liraglutide and requires daily injections. It’s often cheaper, starting at £50–£100 per month. Wegovy is more effective, with up to 15% body weight loss compared to Saxenda’s 5–10%. Consider your budget and lifestyle when choosing.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
Wegovy is a long-term treatment, often used for a year or more. The total cost depends on how long you stay on it and the dose you reach. For example, at £250 per month for the 2.4 mg dose, a year’s supply could cost around £3,000. Budgeting for this is essential.
Will Prices Drop Over Time?
As demand for Wegovy grows, prices may decrease due to competition and increased supply. Some pharmacies have already cut prices since its UK launch in 2023. However, costs are likely to remain high for higher doses. Keep an eye on market trends to spot savings.
Insurance and Wegovy
Private health insurance in the UK rarely covers Wegovy for weight loss. Insurers like Axa and Aviva classify obesity as a chronic condition, which is often excluded. Check your policy, but most patients pay out of pocket. This makes finding affordable providers even more important.
How Much Is Wegovy in the UK Compared to Other Countries?
Wegovy is cheaper in the UK than in the US, where it costs $1,349 per month. In the UK, the average price for the 2.4 mg dose is £250–£300. European countries like Germany and Denmark offer it for as low as £92–£186. These differences highlight the UK’s moderate pricing.
Staying Safe When Buying Wegovy
Always buy Wegovy from a licensed pharmacy to avoid counterfeit drugs. Check for General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration on the pharmacy’s website. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may involve fake medications. Your safety is worth the extra research.
Summary
Understanding how much Wegovy costs in the UK helps you plan your weight loss journey. NHS prescriptions are affordable but hard to access, while private options range from £125 to £300 per month. Dosage, provider, and purchase method affect the price, so compare options and look for discounts.
Alternatives like Mounjaro and Saxenda offer different price points and benefits. With careful planning, you can manage the cost of Wegovy and achieve your health goals.
FAQ
How much is Wegovy in the UK on the NHS?
Wegovy on the NHS costs about £9.35 per prescription, the standard fee. You need to meet strict criteria, like a BMI of 35 or higher. Access is limited to specialist services with long waiting lists.
Why do Wegovy prices vary so much?
Prices depend on the dose, pharmacy, and included services like consultations. Higher doses cost more due to increased medication. Subscriptions or bulk buys can lower the weekly cost.
Can I get Wegovy cheaper with a subscription?
Yes, subscription plans from pharmacies like SemaPen start at £33 per week. They often include support and automatic refills. Compare plans to find the best deal.
Is Wegovy covered by private insurance?
Most UK private insurers, like Axa, don’t cover Wegovy for weight loss. Obesity is considered a chronic condition, often excluded. Check your policy to confirm.
How does Wegovy’s cost compare to Mounjaro?
Wegovy starts at £125 per month, while Mounjaro starts at £130. Both increase with higher doses. Mounjaro may offer slightly better results but isn’t widely available on the NHS.