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On 11 June 2026 the MHRA approved oral semaglutide — the first oral GLP-1 medicine licensed in the UK for weight loss, giving you a needle-free alternative to the weekly Wegovy injection.
Prescription-only · No GP referral needed
On 11 June 2026 the MHRA approved oral semaglutide — the first oral GLP-1 medicine licensed in the UK for weight loss, giving you a needle-free alternative to the weekly Wegovy injection.
Wegovy pills are a prescription-only weight-loss treatment that contain semaglutide — the same active ingredient used in Wegovy injections. In clinical studies they produced an average of up to 17% weight loss after 64 weeks on the maintenance dose.
As a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) tablet, Wegovy works like the natural GLP-1 hormone released after eating. This helps reduce hunger, lower food cravings, and keep you feeling satisfied for longer after meals.
Wegovy tablets are started on a low dose and increased gradually until you reach the maintenance dose of 25mg. They must be taken once a day on an empty stomach after 8 hours of fasting, and swallowed whole with no more than 120ml of water.
Suitability is confirmed by our GPhC-registered pharmacists during your consultation. In general:
You may be eligible to start if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with a weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnoea, or cardiovascular disease.
You are also eligible to take the Wegovy pill and can request to switch. Where clinically suitable, the Wegovy pill can be prescribed off-label.
For the tablet to absorb properly, the empty-stomach rule matters. This daily routine is the main trade-off compared with the once-weekly injection — so it is worth thinking about which fits your life better.
Take it first thing, after fasting for at least 8 hours — usually overnight.
Swallow whole with no more than 120ml of plain water. Do not split, crush or chew it.
Wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking anything else, or taking other medicines.
The dose is stepped up slowly to reduce gastrointestinal side effects, with a minimum of one month at each level.
In the phase 3 OASIS 4 trial, adults taking the 25mg pill for around 64 weeks lost on average about 16.6% of their body weight when taken as intended, compared with roughly 2% on placebo. Around one in three of those who took it consistently lost 20% or more.
These results are broadly comparable to high-dose injectable semaglutide. Individual results vary and depend on your starting weight, the dose you reach, and the lifestyle changes alongside it. The Wegovy pill works best as part of a comprehensive programme of dietary change, increased activity and regular follow-up.
Be cautious of any product sold online as a “Wegovy pill” without a prescription. Only use a licensed product prescribed by a GMC-registered prescriber and dispensed by a GPhC-registered pharmacy.
Later dose steps (9mg and the 25mg maintenance dose) are discussed and priced at your consultation. 10-minute consultation per appointment.
Book AppointmentWegovy pill consultations run on set days at each branch. Choose the day and location that suits you when you book.
Mondays & Tuesdays
Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays
Mondays & Fridays
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal — such as nausea — and are usually worst while the dose is being increased. They tend to ease as your body adjusts.
Semaglutide has been associated with a small increased risk of pancreatitis. Seek urgent medical attention for severe, persistent abdominal pain that may spread to the back.
Gallstones and gallbladder inflammation have been reported, particularly with rapid weight loss. Report new upper-abdominal pain or jaundice promptly.
Severe vomiting or diarrhoea can cause dehydration. Maintain fluid intake and seek advice if you notice reduced urine output or dizziness, as acute kidney injury has been reported.
Rapid improvement in blood glucose, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes on insulin, may temporarily worsen diabetic retinopathy. Those affected should be monitored.
Used alongside insulin or a sulfonylurea in type 2 diabetes, there is an increased risk of low blood sugar; the dose of those medicines may need adjusting.
A small increase in resting heart rate has been observed and should be monitored.
Based on animal studies there is a theoretical risk; this has not been confirmed in humans, but report any neck lump, difficulty swallowing, or persistent hoarseness.
Call 999 for signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), such as difficulty breathing or severe swelling of the face or throat.
Contact your GP or call 111 for persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, a neck lump, or other concerning but non-emergency symptoms.
Report any suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.
Family planning: the pill must not be used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and stop at least two months before trying to conceive.
Book a consultation with our GPhC-registered pharmacists to see if the Wegovy pill is right for you — no GP referral needed, at your nearest Hampshire branch.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. The Wegovy pill (oral semaglutide) is a prescription-only medicine; eligibility and suitability are assessed by our GPhC-registered pharmacists during your consultation. Information is based on current MHRA and UK SmPC guidance. Southdowns Pharmacy pharmacists are registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
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