Everything to know about new weight loss drug Wegovy as it becomes available on NHS
04.09.2023 - 18:55
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
A new weight loss drug in the form of an injection has just been made available on the NHS for the first time.
Wegovy, which is usually prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes, can now be offered to patients who are eligible - and it's expected there are around 50,000 people in the UK who are.
At the moment, it's only available on the NHS in England - but the Scottish Medicines Consortium reviewed the drug last year and is expected to publish its recommendation next month.
With this in mind, experts at NowPatient have answered together some common questions about Wegovy, including who can take it and how the injection works to help you lose weight.
What is Wegovy?
Known as a brand name for Semaglutide, Wegovy is a weight loss drug which is often prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes as a possible solution for weight management.
For those prescribed Wegovy, it is injected into the body once a week and alongside a healthy diet and plenty of exercise, it can be a positive aid to encourage weight loss.
How does Wegovy work?
Wegovy helps to suppress a person's appetite and therefore helps them to control how much food they consume.
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in the weight loss drug, replicates the hormone which controls appetite, meaning those taking the drug will feel fuller for longer.
Who can be prescribed Wegovy?
In most cases, Wegovy will only be used by people between the ages of 18-75 who have certain health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease and diabetes to name a few.
You are advised not to take Wegovy if you are over 75, are pregnant or you’re currently taking other medication such as insulin.
Navin Khosla, Pharmacist at Now Patient has spoken about the