Wegovy 1.7 mg represents a specific dose within the semaglutide weight management treatment pathway, administered during weeks 13–16 before patients typically progress to the 2.4 mg maintenance dose. Understanding the cost implications of this GLP-1 receptor agonist is essential for patients considering treatment, as expenses vary significantly between NHS and private provision. Whilst NHS prescriptions cost £9.90 in England (free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland), access remains severely restricted under NICE guidance TA875. Private prescriptions offer faster availability but at considerably higher cost, typically £175–£300 monthly. This article examines Wegovy 1.7 mg costs across different pathways, insurance coverage, and strategies to manage treatment expenses responsibly.

What Is Wegovy 1.7 mg and Who Is It Prescribed For?

Wegovy (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication licensed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for chronic weight management in adults. The 1.7 mg dose is administered during weeks 13-16 of treatment as part of the standard dose-escalation schedule, before patients typically progress to the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. Semaglutide belongs to a class of medicines called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which work by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone that regulates appetite and food intake.

The medication acts on areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, helping patients feel fuller for longer and reducing overall calorie consumption. It also slows gastric emptying, which contributes to increased satiety after meals. Clinical trials have demonstrated that when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, Wegovy can lead to significant and sustained weight loss.

According to the MHRA licence, Wegovy may be prescribed for adults with either a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or above, or those with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or above who have at least one weight-related comorbidity such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or obstructive sleep apnoea. However, NHS availability is more restricted and follows stricter NICE criteria (TA875), requiring a BMI of at least 35 kg/m² (or 32.5 kg/m² for people from certain ethnic backgrounds), at least one weight-related comorbidity, previous unsuccessful weight loss attempts, and treatment only through specialist weight management services for a maximum of two years.

Wegovy is not suitable for everyone. It should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and caution is needed in people with certain conditions including pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and diabetic retinopathy. It should not be combined with other GLP-1 receptor agonists. Prescribing decisions should always be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive assessment of the patient's medical history, current health status, and suitability for long-term weight management therapy.

How Much Does Wegovy 1.7 mg Cost in the UK?

The cost of Wegovy 1.7 mg in the UK varies considerably depending on whether it is obtained through the NHS or via private prescription. As of mid-2024, private costs for a monthly pack of Wegovy 1.7 mg (containing 4 pre-filled pens for weekly use) typically range from £175 to £300, though prices can fluctuate based on the prescribing clinic, pharmacy, and any associated consultation fees.

It is important to note that the 1.7 mg dose is part of a dose-escalation regimen rather than a long-term maintenance dose for most patients. Most will progress to the 2.4 mg maintenance dose after four weeks at 1.7 mg, which carries similar or slightly higher costs. The total cost of a complete Wegovy treatment course over 12 months can therefore be substantial when obtained privately, making it one of the more expensive weight management medications available in the UK.

Several factors influence the final price patients pay. Consultation fees with private prescribers (which may range from £50 to £150 per appointment) are typically charged separately. Some private clinics offer package deals that include initial assessment, follow-up consultations, and medication supply, which may provide modest savings compared to paying for each element separately. Additionally, online prescribing services have emerged, sometimes offering competitive pricing, though patients should ensure these services are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and staffed by UK-registered healthcare professionals.

Supply chain issues have periodically affected Wegovy availability in the UK since its launch, occasionally leading to price variations or temporary unavailability. Patients considering Wegovy should discuss the full financial commitment with their prescriber and ensure they can sustain treatment for the recommended duration to achieve meaningful clinical benefit.

NHS Prescription vs Private Wegovy 1.7 mg Costs

The cost difference between NHS and private Wegovy prescriptions is substantial and represents a significant consideration for patients. NHS prescriptions in England currently cost £9.90 per item (as of 2024), meaning a monthly pack of Wegovy (containing 4 pens) would cost £9.90, or patients may be exempt from charges if they meet certain criteria such as being over 60, having specific medical conditions, or receiving income-based benefits. In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, NHS prescriptions are provided free of charge to all residents. However, access to Wegovy via the NHS is currently limited and variable across regions.

NICE published guidance (TA875) in March 2023 recommending semaglutide 2.4 mg for weight management in adults, but with significant restrictions. The guidance applies only to specialist weight management services within the NHS, with treatment limited to a maximum of two years. Eligibility criteria are stringent, requiring a BMI of at least 35 kg/m² (or 32.5 kg/m² for people from certain ethnic backgrounds) plus at least one weight-related comorbidity. Even where patients meet the clinical criteria, NHS availability remains constrained due to capacity limitations in specialist services and national supply agreements. Many NHS Integrated Care Boards have not yet commissioned Wegovy services, and waiting lists in areas that have can extend to many months.

In contrast, private prescriptions offer much faster access, with many patients able to obtain Wegovy within days of an initial consultation. However, the cost differential is considerable: while an NHS prescription would cost £9.90 (or nothing in devolved nations), the same medication privately costs approximately £175-£300 per month.

Patients should be aware that switching between NHS and private prescriptions may not always be straightforward. Those who commence treatment privately cannot automatically transfer to NHS provision, even if they meet NICE criteria, due to the limited commissioning of these services. Conversely, patients who access Wegovy via the NHS should be aware that if they discontinue NHS specialist service engagement, they may lose access and need to seek private prescription if they wish to continue treatment. Healthcare professionals can provide guidance on the most appropriate pathway based on individual circumstances and local service availability.

Does Insurance or the NHS Cover Wegovy 1.7 mg?

NHS coverage for Wegovy is theoretically available but practically limited. Following NICE guidance TA875, the NHS can prescribe semaglutide (Wegovy) for eligible patients, but only through specialist weight management services and for a maximum of two years. Patients must meet strict criteria: a BMI of at least 35 kg/m² (or 32.5 kg/m² for people from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean family backgrounds), plus at least one weight-related comorbidity and previous unsuccessful attempts at weight loss through lifestyle interventions.

Even when clinical criteria are met, access remains restricted and varies by locality. Many NHS Integrated Care Boards have not commissioned Wegovy services, and those that have often face significant capacity constraints. The NHS has negotiated a confidential commercial arrangement with the manufacturer to manage costs, but supply limitations and service capacity mean many eligible patients cannot currently access Wegovy through the NHS. Patients interested in NHS provision should discuss options with their GP, who can advise on local availability and referral pathways to specialist weight management services.

Private medical insurance coverage for Wegovy varies considerably between providers and policies. Most standard health insurance policies in the UK do not cover weight management medications, as obesity treatment is often excluded or subject to specific policy endorsements. Some premium policies or corporate health plans may offer partial coverage, but this is uncommon. Patients with private medical insurance should review their policy documents carefully and contact their insurer directly to confirm whether Wegovy is covered under their specific plan.

Where insurance coverage exists, it typically requires prior authorisation and evidence that the patient meets specific clinical criteria, often mirroring or exceeding NICE guidelines. Insurers may also require documentation of previous weight loss attempts and ongoing engagement with dietetic or lifestyle support services. Even with coverage, patients may face excess payments or co-payments that significantly reduce the financial benefit. Given the variability in coverage, patients should verify their insurance position before commencing treatment to avoid unexpected costs.

Ways to Reduce the Cost of Wegovy 1.7 mg Treatment

For patients pursuing private Wegovy treatment, several strategies may help reduce costs, though the medication remains a significant financial commitment. Comparing providers is essential, as prices vary between private clinics, online prescribing services, and pharmacies. Some services offer transparent pricing structures published on their websites, whilst others require initial consultation before disclosing costs. Patients should obtain quotes from multiple providers and ensure all associated costs (consultations, follow-ups, blood tests) are clearly itemised.

Package deals or treatment bundles offered by some private clinics may provide savings compared to paying for individual consultations and prescriptions separately. These packages typically include an initial assessment, a defined number of follow-up appointments, and several months of medication supply. Whilst requiring upfront payment, the per-month cost may be lower than purchasing components separately. However, patients should carefully review terms and conditions, particularly regarding refund policies if treatment needs to be discontinued due to side effects or other medical reasons.

Some patients may discuss maintenance dose options with their prescriber. According to the Wegovy SmPC (Summary of Product Characteristics), the 2.4 mg dose is the standard maintenance dose. However, for patients who cannot tolerate the 2.4 mg dose due to side effects, the 1.7 mg dose may be considered as a maintenance dose if clinically appropriate and agreed with a prescriber. This approach should only be considered based on individual response and clinical guidance, not primarily for cost reasons.

Patients should only obtain Wegovy from regulated healthcare providers. This means using CQC-registered clinics or online services with UK-registered prescribers and pharmacies. Unregulated or overseas sources should be avoided due to safety and legal concerns. Patients experiencing side effects should report them through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Finally, patients should consider the overall value of treatment in the context of their health goals. Wegovy is most effective when combined with lifestyle modifications, and investing in dietetic support, exercise programmes, or psychological services alongside medication may enhance outcomes and potentially reduce the duration of pharmacological treatment needed. Healthcare professionals can provide personalised advice on optimising treatment value whilst managing costs responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions