About Wegovy® Tablets
Wegovy® (semaglutide) is a prescription-only weight loss treatment developed by Novo Nordisk. Until recently, semaglutide was only available as a weekly injection. The tablet form offers the same active ingredient in a once-daily pill, making it a practical option for adults who prefer to avoid injections.
Semaglutide works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone is released after eating and plays a key role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, Wegovy® helps reduce hunger, increase feelings of fullness, and lower overall calorie intake.
Wegovy® tablets are intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity as part of a structured weight management programme. They are prescribed where clinically appropriate following a full medical assessment.
Wegovy® tablets have been approved by the MHRA for weight loss in the UK. They are currently only available via private prescription.
Side Effects
Like all medicines, Wegovy® tablets can cause side effects. Most are mild to moderate and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication, particularly during the dose-increase phase.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Reduced appetite
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Serious side effects — seek medical advice promptly if you experience:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain (which may indicate pancreatitis)
- Symptoms of gallbladder problems such as pain in the upper right abdomen, fever, or jaundice
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a rapid heartbeat
- Changes in vision (which may indicate diabetic retinopathy complications)
- Signs of low blood sugar if you are also taking insulin or sulfonylureas
- Mood changes, depression, or thoughts of self-harm
This is not a full list of side effects. Read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medication and speak to your prescriber or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
Warnings
Wegovy® tablets are not suitable for everyone. Do not take this medication if you:
- Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- Have a known allergy or serious hypersensitivity to semaglutide or any ingredient in the tablet
Tell your prescriber before starting Wegovy® tablets if you:
- Have or have previously had pancreatitis
- Have gallbladder or kidney problems
- Have diabetic eye disease (retinopathy)
- Have a history of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts
- Are taking other medicines, particularly insulin, sulfonylureas, or any other oral medications (timing of administration may be affected)
- Have any other serious medical conditions
Wegovy® tablets are a prescription-only medicine and are only prescribed following a full clinical assessment. Always follow the guidance of your prescriber and read the patient information leaflet before use.
