Wegovy
What is Wegovy
At Manchester Weight Loss, we prioritise patient safety, informed choices, and evidence-based treatment options. Wegovy, the brand name for semaglutide 2.4 mg, is a once-weekly injectable medication. Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight management in adults. It is licensed in the UK for use in individuals who have:
- A body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m² (obesity), or
- A BMI ≥27 kg/m² (overweight) with at least one weight-related comorbidity (e.g. hypertension, dyslipidaemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obstructive sleep apnoea)
Wegovy is not a substitute for lifestyle modification but is used to support sustainable weight loss in combination with behavioural interventions.
Please note that this medication may only be prescribed following a full medical consultation by a qualified prescriber, in line with UK legislation and professional standards set by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
How Does Wegovy Work?
Semaglutide mimics GLP-1, a hormone naturally released by the gut in response to food intake. GLP-1 plays a role in appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Wegovy works by:
- Suppressing appetite via action on appetite-regulating centres in the brain (hypothalamus)
- Delaying gastric emptying, which promotes satiety and reduces food intake
- Improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucagon secretion
These mechanisms result in caloric deficit and sustained weight reduction, even in individuals without diabetes.
Clinical Efficacy
The effectiveness of semaglutide 2.4 mg for weight management was established through the STEP clinical trial programme, which included thousands of participants across multiple countries.
Key Results (STEP 1 Trial – Non-Diabetic Participants):
- Mean weight loss: 14.9% of baseline body weight at 68 weeks with semaglutide 2.4 mg
- 86% of participants lost at least 5% of their body weight
- 69% lost at least 10%, and nearly 50% lost ≥15%
STEP 2 and STEP 4 Trials – Participants with Type 2 Diabetes:
- Participants experienced lower, but still clinically meaningful, weight loss (~9.6% to 10.6%)
- Semaglutide was also shown to improve glycaemic control
Access and Pricing
Wegovy is available via private prescription at Manchester Weight Loss Clinics. Access is determined based on:
- Suitability confirmed during medical assessment
- Absence of contraindications
- Willingness to engage in a structured lifestyle programme
We do not initiate treatment without a face-to-face or remote video consultation by a qualified prescriber.
