Wegovy pills, the oral tablet form of the widely used weight-loss injection, are now available at Superdrug pharmacies across the UK, marking a significant expansion in accessibility for the treatment.
The launch makes Superdrug the first high street pharmacy to offer the drug, which contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in the injectable version. This oral alternative aims to appeal to individuals who may be hesitant about using injections.
New patients can obtain a month's supply of the lowest 1.5mg dose for £79, including a £20 welcome discount code through Superdrug's Online Doctor service. Existing patients will pay £99 for this dose. Prices increase for higher dosages, with the 4mg tablets costing £119 for existing patients and £99 for new ones. The 9mg dose is priced at £169 and £149 respectively, and the highest 25mg dose will be £229 for existing patients and £209 for new patients.
Trial results indicate that the daily tablet form of Wegovy led to an average body weight loss of approximately 17 per cent after 64 weeks on the highest 25mg dose. This is slightly less effective than the injectable version, which has been shown to achieve up to a 20.7 per cent reduction.
To access the treatment, prospective patients must complete an online questionnaire detailing their height, weight, ethnicity, and medical history. Dr. Clair Grainger, a GP at Superdrug Online Doctor, emphasized that the prescription will only be issued following a thorough clinical assessment against eligibility criteria, noting that obesity is a complex medical issue.
The pill mimics a gut hormone released after eating, which helps to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness. It is indicated for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above, classified as obese, and for those with a BMI between 27 and 30 who have a weight-related medical condition. Currently, the tablet is available privately.
Patients currently using injectable Wegovy at lower doses may be able to switch to the 9mg tablets, while those on higher injection doses may transition to the 25mg tablets, subject to medical approval. A one-week gap is required after the last injection before starting the tablets.
Although the pill received approval for UK use by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency last month, its availability on the National Health Service (NHS) is yet to be confirmed. Manufacturer Novo Nordisk is reportedly in discussions with the government regarding potential NHS rollout, with the drug's price being a significant factor.
Experts anticipate a surge in demand for the oral form, potentially reaching millions of Britons who may have previously opted against the injectable treatment. Superdrug is currently stocking 1.5mg and 4mg doses, with 9mg and 25mg to follow.