Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is a once-weekly injectable medication licensed for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related comorbidities. Understanding Wegovy cost per month UK is essential for patients considering this treatment, as prices vary significantly between NHS and private provision. In the private sector, monthly costs typically range from £150 to £300, whilst NHS access remains strictly limited by NICE eligibility criteria and supply constraints. This article examines the factors influencing Wegovy pricing, compares NHS versus private treatment costs, and explores strategies to access this medication more affordably within the UK healthcare system.

Wegovy Cost Per Month in the UK

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is a once-weekly injectable medication licensed for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related comorbidities. The monthly cost of Wegovy in the UK varies significantly depending on whether you access it through the NHS or via private prescription.

In the private sector, Wegovy typically costs between £150 and £300 per month, though prices fluctuate based on the prescribing service, pharmacy dispensing fees, and the dose escalation phase you are in. The treatment follows a structured dose titration schedule over 16–20 weeks, starting at 0.25 mg weekly and gradually increasing to the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. During the initial lower-dose weeks, some providers may charge slightly less, but most quote a flat monthly rate.

It is important to note that Wegovy must be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. While private treatment may continue as long as clinically appropriate, NHS funding is capped at a maximum of 2 years according to NICE guidance. Clinical trials such as the STEP programme demonstrated that weight loss is maintained with continued use, but weight regain is common after discontinuation.

Private prescriptions require an initial consultation (often £30–£100) and may involve follow-up appointments every three to six months. Some online providers bundle consultation fees into the medication cost, while others charge separately. Always verify what is included in the quoted price and ensure the prescriber is a registered UK healthcare professional operating within MHRA and General Medical Council (GMC) guidelines.

NHS Prescription vs Private Treatment Costs

NHS availability of Wegovy is strictly limited due to both NICE criteria and supply constraints. NICE guidance (TA875) recommends semaglutide 2.4 mg for weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of at least 35 kg/m² (or 32.5 kg/m² in people from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean family backgrounds) and at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or obstructive sleep apnoea.

Crucially, NICE specifies that Wegovy must be prescribed only within specialist weight management services (tier 3 or 4) and is limited to a maximum treatment duration of 2 years. If you meet these criteria and Wegovy is available through your local integrated care board (ICB), NHS prescription charges apply at the current rate in England (free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). For current prescription charges, check the NHS Business Services Authority website. Many NHS areas have paused new initiations or restricted prescribing further due to global supply shortages.

Private treatment costs are substantially higher but offer faster access. Patients pay the full medication cost plus consultation fees. Over a year, private Wegovy treatment may total £2,000–£3,500, compared to the cost of NHS prescription charges (if eligible and supply permits). Private health insurance policies typically exclude weight management medications, even with documented comorbidities. Always check your policy terms and obtain prior authorisation before starting treatment.

For patients who cannot access NHS provision and find private costs prohibitive, there is no official link between Wegovy and over-the-counter weight loss products, which lack the same evidence base and regulatory approval.

What Affects the Price of Wegovy

Several factors influence the monthly cost of Wegovy in the UK private market. Understanding these can help patients make informed decisions and potentially identify more cost-effective options.

Prescribing service type is a major determinant. Online telemedicine platforms often charge £150–£200 per month, including medication and remote consultations. Traditional private GP clinics or specialist weight management centres may charge £250–£300 monthly, reflecting face-to-face appointments and more comprehensive monitoring. Some services require upfront payment for three to six months, occasionally offering a small discount for bulk purchase.

Pharmacy dispensing fees vary between providers. Some online services operate their own pharmacies and absorb dispensing costs, while others issue prescriptions for patients to fill at any registered pharmacy, where dispensing fees (typically £10–£20) apply separately. Delivery charges for home delivery of injectable medications may add £5–£10 per month, though many providers include this in their quoted price.

Dose escalation phase can affect costs. During the initial 16-week titration period, patients use lower doses (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg) before reaching the 2.4 mg maintenance dose. Some providers charge less during these early weeks, while others maintain a flat monthly rate regardless of dose. The pen device format (pre-filled, single-dose pens) is standardised, so there is no cost variation based on device type.

Market competition and supply also influence pricing. When supply is constrained, prices may rise. Conversely, as more providers enter the market and supply stabilises, competition may drive costs down. Consultation frequency affects overall expenditure: some services require monthly check-ins (increasing costs), while others schedule reviews every three to six months. Always clarify the total cost structure, including any additional fees for clinically indicated blood tests or consultations, before committing to a provider. Verify that your provider is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and that any dispensing pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).

Ways to Access Wegovy at Lower Cost

For patients seeking more affordable access to Wegovy, several strategies may help reduce monthly expenditure, though options remain limited given current supply constraints.

NHS prescription remains the most cost-effective route if you meet NICE eligibility criteria. Speak to your GP about referral to a specialist weight management service (tier 3 or tier 4). Remember that NHS treatment is limited to a maximum of 2 years. Even if your local ICB has paused new Wegovy prescriptions, joining the waiting list ensures you are considered when supply resumes. If you pay for NHS prescriptions in England, a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) reduces costs. Check the NHS Business Services Authority website for current rates. A PPC covers unlimited prescription items and is worthwhile if you take other regular medications alongside Wegovy.

Compare private providers carefully. Prices vary by £50–£100 monthly between services. Use comparison websites and read independent reviews, but verify that providers are registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and prescribers are GMC-registered. Some providers offer introductory discounts or referral schemes where existing patients can share discount codes. Be cautious of prices significantly below market rate, as these may indicate unregulated or counterfeit products.

Private health insurance rarely covers weight management medications, but if you have obesity-related comorbidities (e.g., type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease), your insurer may contribute to treatment costs under a chronic disease management plan. Contact your insurer to discuss eligibility and obtain prior authorisation.

Patient assistance programmes are not currently available for Wegovy in the UK, unlike in some other countries. The manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, does not offer direct-to-patient discount schemes in the UK market.

Important safety advice: Never purchase Wegovy from unregulated online sources, social media sellers, or overseas websites. Counterfeit semaglutide products have been identified in the UK, posing serious health risks. Only obtain Wegovy through a registered UK pharmacy with a valid prescription from a GMC-registered prescriber. If you experience side effects, report them to the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. Monitoring of weight, blood pressure, and blood glucose (if diabetic) is recommended throughout treatment. If you experience severe side effects such as persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or signs of pancreatitis, stop the medication and contact your GP or NHS 111 immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions