The weight loss landscape in the UK is set to transform following the approval of a new daily pill by the medicines regulator. The Wegovy (semaglutide) tablet, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has been given the green light for use in the UK, offering an alternative to the widely popular weekly injections.
Eligibility and Availability
The tablet is intended for obese adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above, as well as overweight individuals with a related condition such as high blood pressure. The medication will be available on prescription, and it is expected to be accessible through private providers within weeks. However, it has not yet been assessed for NHS use, meaning patients must consult a private doctor to obtain the drug.
Dosing Regimen
The starting dose is 1.5mg, escalating to 4mg, 9mg, and a maximum of 25mg. Patients must remain on each dose for at least one month before moving to the next level. Those currently on the 2.4mg weekly Wegovy injection can switch directly to the 25mg daily tablet, according to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Administration Guidelines
The pill must be taken on an empty stomach with a sip of water after a fasting period of at least eight hours. Users must also avoid food and water for at least 30 minutes after taking the pill to ensure proper absorption.
Clinical Trial Results
In a study involving adults who took the 25mg tablet daily alongside diet and exercise, participants lost an average of 17% of their body weight after 64 weeks, compared to just 3% for those on a placebo.
Side Effects and Warnings
Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea, nausea, constipation, and vomiting. The MHRA has approved the tablet after rigorous safety and efficacy assessments.
Industry Reactions
Sebnem Avsar Tuna, general manager at Novo Nordisk, the drug's manufacturer, called the approval a milestone for obesity care in the UK, offering patients choice and flexibility. Olivier Picard, chairman of the National Pharmacy Association, highlighted the potential for counterfeit weight loss treatments, warning patients to only obtain medication from regulated pharmacies.
