Wegovy and Ozempic both contain semaglutide but are approved for different purposes in the UK. Wegovy is licensed specifically for weight loss, while Ozempic is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Medcare Health Clinic explains dosage differences, cost comparisons, NHS access, and which option may be suitable for you.

What Is Wegovy?

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4: Wegovy is a weekly semaglutide injection licensed in the UK specifically for chronic weight management.

It is prescribed for:

  • Adults with BMI ≥30

  • BMI ≥27 with weight-related conditions

  • Long-term obesity treatment

Maximum maintenance dose: 2.4 mg weekly

What Is Ozempic?

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Ozempic is also a weekly semaglutide injection, but it is licensed in the UK for type 2 diabetes management.

It helps:

  • Control blood sugar

  • Reduce HbA1c

  • Support moderate weight reduction

Maximum UK dose: 1 mg weekly (2 mg in some cases)

Key Difference Between Wegovy and Ozempic

Both medications contain semaglutide. However, they differ in:

Feature Wegovy Ozempic
Primary Use Weight Loss Type 2 Diabetes
Max Dose 2.4 mg 1 mg (sometimes 2 mg)
Average Weight Loss 10–15% 5–10%
NHS Access Strict obesity criteria Diabetes patients
Licence in UK Obesity treatment Diabetes treatment

Why Does Wegovy Cause More Weight Loss?

Wegovy is prescribed at a higher maintenance dose (2.4 mg).

Higher dose means:

  • Greater appetite suppression

  • Stronger calorie reduction

  • Enhanced fat loss response

This is why Wegovy shows stronger results in obesity trials compared to Ozempic.

Is Ozempic Used for Weight Loss in the UK?

Ozempic is not officially licensed for weight loss alone.

However:

  • Some private clinics prescribe it off-label

  • NHS primarily reserves it for diabetes

For dedicated weight management, Wegovy is the preferred licensed option.

Medcare Health Clinic ensures prescriptions align with UK medical regulations.

Cost Comparison in the UK (2026)

Medication Monthly Private Cost
Wegovy £200–£350
Ozempic £150–£250

Ozempic may appear cheaper, but it is not specifically designed for obesity treatment.

Side Effects: Are They Different?

Because both contain semaglutide, side effects are similar:

Common effects:

  • Nausea

  • Constipation

  • Diarrhoea

  • Fatigue

Rare but serious:

  • Pancreatitis

  • Gallbladder issues

Medical supervision is essential.

NHS Availability Differences

National Health Service prescribing guidelines:

  • Wegovy: For severe obesity under specialist referral

  • Ozempic: For patients with type 2 diabetes

Eligibility depends on diagnosis, BMI, and risk factors.

Can You Switch from Ozempic to Wegovy?

Yes, under doctor supervision.

Switching may be considered if:

  • Diabetes is controlled

  • Weight loss plateau occurs

  • Obesity remains primary concern

Medcare Health Clinic assesses:

  • Current dosage

  • Metabolic health

  • Side effect tolerance

Transition must be gradual.

Which Is Better for Weight Loss in the UK?

For pure weight loss:
Wegovy is generally more effective due to higher dosage and official obesity licence.

For diabetes management:
 Ozempic is more appropriate.

Best choice depends on:

  • Medical history

  • BMI

  • Blood sugar levels

  • NHS vs private access

Frequently Asked Questions (AEO Structured)

1. Is Wegovy stronger than Ozempic?

Yes, Wegovy has a higher maximum dose (2.4 mg) and produces greater average weight loss.

2. Are Wegovy and Ozempic the same drug?

They contain the same active ingredient (semaglutide) but are licensed for different uses.

3. Is Ozempic cheaper than Wegovy in the UK?

Generally yes, but it is primarily for diabetes treatment.

4. Can I use Ozempic for weight loss only?

It may be prescribed off-label privately, but Wegovy is specifically approved for weight management.

5. Which is safer?

Both have similar safety profiles when prescribed correctly.

6. Is Wegovy available on the NHS?

Yes, but only under strict obesity criteria.

7. Should I switch medications for better results?

Only after consulting a medical professional such as those at Medcare Health Clinic.

Final Verdict (2026 UK Perspective)

While Wegovy and Ozempic both contain semaglutide, they serve different primary purposes in the UK healthcare system. Wegovy is the licensed obesity treatment with stronger weight loss results, while Ozempic remains a diabetes-focused medication.

For personalised guidance, eligibility assessment, and regulated prescriptions, Medcare Health Clinic provides medically supervised weight management tailored to UK patients.