Weight Loss (Oral)

Weight loss medication may be considered if you:

• Have obesity or are overweight according to UK prescribing criteria

• Have been unable to achieve sufficient weight loss through diet and exercise alone

• Have weight-related health conditions, such as:

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • High blood pressure

  • High cholesterol

  • Obstructive sleep apnoea

  • Cardiovascular disease

Weight loss medicines are not intended for cosmetic weight loss or for people who do not meet the recommended prescribing criteria

Before treatment is recommended, a healthcare professional will assess:

• Your height, weight and BMI

• Any weight-related medical conditions

• Your medical history and current medicines

• Previous weight management attempts

• Whether treatment is safe and appropriate for you

Additional information, such as recent weight measurements or photographs, may be requested before treatment is approved

Treatment should always be combined with healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

Wegovy® tablets (semaglutide) are taken once daily. The dose is increased gradually over several months to help minimise side effects and improve tolerability.

Treatment includes:

• A personalised weight management plan

• Daily oral medication where clinically appropriate

• Dietary and exercise advice

• Regular clinical reviews to monitor progress, side effects and ongoing suitability

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Constipation

• Abdominal pain

• Reduced appetite

These side effects are usually mild to moderate and often improve as your body adjusts to treatment.

Treatment may be discontinued if sufficient weight loss is not achieved after an appropriate period or if significant side effects occur

Maintaining a healthy weight requires long-term lifestyle changes. You can improve your chances of successful weight management by:

• Following a balanced, calorie-controlled diet

• Exercising regularly

• Getting enough sleep

• Managing stress

• Attending regular treatment reviews if prescribed weight loss medication

• Continuing healthy eating and physical activity even after treatment has ended

Wegovy® tablets should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. They are not suitable for everyone, including people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and should always be taken exactly as prescribed