Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is a once-weekly injection licensed for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with comorbidities. Whilst NHS access is limited to specialist services with strict eligibility criteria, private providers like AYP Healthcare offer alternative pathways. Understanding Wegovy cost through AYP Healthcare—including medication, clinical supervision, and ongoing monitoring—is essential for patients considering this treatment. This article examines pricing structures, what's included in private services, and how costs compare to NHS and traditional private clinic models, helping you make informed decisions about weight management treatment.

What Is Wegovy and How Does It Work?

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection licensed by the MHRA for chronic weight management in adults with a BMI ≥30 kg/m², or ≥27 kg/m² with at least one weight-related comorbidity, as an adjunct to diet and physical activity. It belongs to a class of medicines called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, originally developed for type 2 diabetes management but now widely recognised for their significant weight loss effects.

The mechanism of action centres on mimicking the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone, which is released from the gut after eating. Semaglutide binds to GLP-1 receptors in multiple tissues, producing several complementary effects that support weight reduction. In the brain, it acts on appetite centres in the hypothalamus to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier for patients to adhere to reduced-calorie diets. Simultaneously, it slows gastric emptying, prolonging satiety after meals and reducing overall food intake.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that Wegovy, when combined with lifestyle interventions including dietary modification and increased physical activity, can produce an average weight loss of 10–15% of initial body weight over 68 weeks. The STEP (Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with obesity) trial programme showed superior efficacy compared to placebo, with many participants achieving clinically meaningful weight reduction.

Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation, particularly during dose escalation. These typically diminish over time as the body adjusts. Patients should be counselled about the importance of gradual dose titration and maintaining adequate hydration to prevent dehydration and acute kidney injury.

Wegovy should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding and should be stopped at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception. Other important safety considerations include risk of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, increased heart rate, and potential worsening of diabetic retinopathy in people with diabetes. Patients taking insulin or sulfonylureas may need dose adjustments to prevent hypoglycaemia. Wegovy should not be used alongside other GLP-1 receptor agonists or other semaglutide products.

Suspected side effects should be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme (yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk).

NHS vs Private Wegovy Prescriptions: Cost Comparison

Access to Wegovy through the NHS is guided by NICE technology appraisal (TA875), which recommends semaglutide 2.4 mg only for adults with at least one weight-related comorbidity and a BMI ≥35 kg/m² (or ≥30 kg/m² in exceptional circumstances). Lower BMI thresholds may apply for people from certain ethnic backgrounds. Importantly, NHS treatment must be initiated and supervised by specialist weight management services (Tier 3), with a maximum treatment duration of 2 years.

Availability varies by region due to service capacity and local implementation policies. Patients should check with their GP about local referral pathways and eligibility criteria.

For those who do access Wegovy via NHS prescription, the standard prescription charge applies—currently £9.90 per item in England (prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). Many patients qualify for prescription charge exemptions, and those requiring multiple medications might benefit from prescription prepayment certificates.

Private prescription costs vary considerably across providers. The medication itself typically costs between £200–£300 per month depending on the dose and supplier. When factoring in clinical consultations, clinically-indicated investigations (blood tests, ECG if needed), ongoing monitoring appointments, and prescription fees, the total monthly cost through traditional private clinics often ranges from £250–£350 or more.

Many private providers require an initial comprehensive assessment including:

• Full medical history and medication review

• Physical examination and baseline observations

• Blood tests (HbA1c, lipid profile, renal and liver function)

• Regular follow-up consultations (monthly or quarterly)

These additional costs can make long-term treatment financially challenging for many patients seeking weight management support outside the NHS system.

What's Included in AYP Healthcare's Wegovy Service

AYP Healthcare offers a comprehensive private weight management service designed to provide safe, clinically supervised access to Wegovy for eligible patients. The service operates entirely online, providing convenience whilst maintaining clinical governance standards in line with Care Quality Commission (CQC) requirements for healthcare services, with prescribers registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and dispensing through General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registered pharmacies.

The initial assessment involves a detailed medical questionnaire reviewed by UK-registered prescribers, including GPs and specialist clinicians with expertise in obesity medicine. This assessment evaluates:

• Current BMI and weight history

• Existing medical conditions and contraindications

• Current medications and potential drug interactions

• Previous weight loss attempts and lifestyle factors

• Mental health considerations and eating disorder screening

• Pregnancy status and contraception use for women of childbearing potential

• History of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or diabetic retinopathy

Once deemed clinically appropriate, patients receive a personalised treatment plan with clear dosing instructions following the licensed titration schedule. Wegovy is initiated at 0.25 mg weekly, gradually increasing over 16–20 weeks to the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg weekly, minimising gastrointestinal side effects.

Ongoing clinical support includes:

• Regular medication reviews and monitoring

• Access to prescriber consultations via secure messaging

• Lifestyle and dietary guidance resources

• Side effect management advice

• Treatment efficacy assessments

AYP Healthcare provides discreet home delivery of medication in temperature-controlled packaging, ensuring product integrity. Patients receive injection technique training materials and sharps disposal guidance to support safe self-administration.

The service emphasises that Wegovy is not a standalone solution but part of a comprehensive weight management approach. Patients are encouraged to engage with dietary modifications, increase physical activity, and address behavioural factors contributing to weight gain. Treatment is reviewed regularly, with discontinuation considered if insufficient weight loss (less than 5% after approximately 3 months at the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg or highest tolerated dose) is achieved, in line with the product's SmPC guidance.

Wegovy Cost Through AYP Healthcare

AYP Healthcare structures its Wegovy service with transparent, all-inclusive monthly pricing designed to make treatment more accessible compared to traditional private clinic models. The monthly cost typically covers the medication supply, prescriber consultations, ongoing clinical monitoring, and home delivery, eliminating hidden fees or unexpected charges.

Whilst specific pricing should be confirmed directly with AYP Healthcare as costs may vary based on individual clinical needs and current market conditions, private Wegovy services generally operate on a subscription model. This approach provides cost predictability, allowing patients to budget for long-term treatment, which is typically required for sustained weight management.

Cost considerations when comparing providers:

• Medication supply: Ensure the price includes the actual Wegovy pens at your current dose

• Clinical consultations: Check whether prescriber reviews are included or charged separately

• Delivery: Confirm if home delivery and temperature-controlled shipping are incorporated

• Flexibility: Understand cancellation policies and whether you can pause treatment if needed

Patients should be aware that regular clinical review is necessary for optimal outcomes. Clinical trials demonstrate that weight loss continues progressively over 12–18 months, with weight regain common if treatment is discontinued prematurely (as shown in the STEP 4 trial). Therefore, the cumulative cost over the treatment course should be considered when evaluating affordability.

For those concerned about cost, it's worth exploring whether private medical insurance policies cover weight management medications, though coverage remains limited. Some employers offer health cash plans that may contribute towards prescription costs.

Patient safety remains paramount: never compromise on clinical supervision to reduce costs. Wegovy purchased from unregulated sources or without proper medical oversight carries significant risks. Always ensure your provider is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and that prescribers are GMC-registered, with dispensing through GPhC-registered pharmacies. If you experience concerning side effects such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, signs of pancreatitis or gallbladder problems, dehydration, or hypoglycaemia (if you have diabetes), contact your prescriber or GP immediately, or attend A&E if symptoms are severe. Report suspected side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme (yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk).

Frequently Asked Questions