On July 7, 2026, the UK's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced its approval of oral semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy, for weight management. This decision expands the availability of semaglutide, previously approved in injectable form, to a new oral formulation for the UK market. The approval specifically targets adults diagnosed with obesity, defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater. Additionally, it includes adults who are overweight, with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater, and present with at least one weight-related comorbidity.
The oral formulation of semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, a class of drugs that helps regulate appetite and food intake. By mimicking the effects of natural GLP-1, it promotes feelings of fullness and reduces hunger, leading to decreased caloric consumption. This mechanism of action is consistent with the injectable form of semaglutide, which has demonstrated clinically significant weight loss in trials. The MHRA's decision follows a comprehensive review of the drug's efficacy and safety profile, concluding that its benefits outweigh potential risks for the approved population.
Access and Implications
Unlike its injectable counterpart, which has seen some availability through the National Health Service (NHS) in specific circumstances, the oral formulation of Wegovy will initially be accessible through private prescriptions only within the UK. This private pathway means individuals will need to cover the cost of the medication themselves, or through private health insurance, rather than it being funded by the NHS. This approach is common for new drug approvals, with broader public funding often considered following further assessment of cost-effectiveness and long-term impact.
The approval marks a notable development in the landscape of weight management options in the UK. It provides an alternative for individuals who may prefer an oral medication over injections, potentially increasing adherence and accessibility for some patients. Healthcare professionals will be able to prescribe oral semaglutide to eligible adults as part of a holistic weight management plan, which typically includes dietary changes and increased physical activity. The MHRA's decision underscores the growing recognition of obesity as a chronic condition requiring medical intervention in some cases.