Semaglutide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and has gained attention in recent years as it can promote weight loss.
But how much does semaglutide cost in the UK? Is it worth the cost? And how can you get started on semaglutide?
That’s what we’ll be exploring in this blog post. Read on to learn all about Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy, and how much they cost.
Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs - glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These work by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.
This can also make you feel fuller for longer, reducing your appetite and ultimately helping you to achieve a low-calorie diet. This is how semaglutide helps you to lose weight.
Semaglutide is simply an active ingredient - there are currently three options available in the UK with the active ingredient semaglutide:
These medications come in different forms, including weight loss injections and tablets. This means you can choose the most suitable choice for you - for example, if you don’t like injections, you could opt for Rybelsus, which comes in tablet form.
Let’s break down the differences between the three. Ozempic and Rybelsus contain semaglutide, and are meant specifically to help control blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production and reducing appetite in people living with type 2 diabetes.
Rybelsus comes in a pill form, while Ozempic is an injection. Wegovy, on the other hand, contains semaglutide at a higher dose and is specifically designed for weight loss.
It helps regulate appetite and slow down digestion, leading to decreased food intake and weight loss.
To determine the right choice for you, your doctor will assess your medical history, goals, and preferences.
The cost of semaglutide can vary depending on factors such as the brand, the dosage and the formulation.
Because the drug is available on prescription, the cost ultimately depends on your healthcare coverage - for example, whether you use the NHS or you have private coverage.
Let’s explore how much each brand typically costs:
Ozempic - costs £130 to £200+ per month
Rybelsus tablets - costs £170 to £250 per month
Wegovy - costs £149 - £200+ per month
If you get these through the NHS as treatment for type 2 diabetes, you're entitled to free prescriptions for all your medicines, including medicines for other conditions. To claim your free prescriptions, you'll need to apply for an exemption certificate.
In short, yes - semaglutide is worth it if you are looking to manage type 2 diabetes or lose weight. Don’t just take our word for it - let’s look at what studies say:
A 2023 study looked at patients over the age of 45 with cardiovascular disease (not diabetes), and a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher. The patients were either given a weekly injection of semaglutide (2.4 mg) or a placebo. Here is a breakdown of the study:
A systematic review looked at 13 studies - six using placebos, and seven using active controls - all of which involved the semaglutide injection. Only one trial included oral semaglutide. Here is a breakdown:
So, with a reduced-calorie diet, semaglutide can be highly effective for weight loss and diabetes management. For between £100 and £200+ per month, semaglutide can reduce the risk of obesity-related health problems and be extremely beneficial for managing diabetes.
Mounjaro
£205.00
£129.00/month
Yes - you can get semaglutide through the NHS. However, you will have to meet certain eligibility criteria, and you will need a prescription from a doctor.
Your doctor will assess your medical condition and determine if semaglutide is the right treatment for you based on guidelines and your individual health needs. If your doctor believes Semaglutide is appropriate for you, they can prescribe it, and you can obtain it from a pharmacy covered by the NHS.
However, eligibility for NHS coverage may vary depending on factors such as your specific medical condition, previous treatments, and any relevant NHS guidelines or policies.
The general rule of thumb is that you will only be prescribed semaglutide for weight management if you:
At Dr Frank's Weight Loss clinic, we have two weight loss medications available - Wegovy and Mounjaro. With Wegovy injections combined with our support, you can lose up to 20% in the first year!
We will guide and support you throughout your weight loss journey. Make the most of monthly reviews and unlimited well-being calls. Our team of clinicians, dieticians and weight management experts will be there to guide you and help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Begin your weight loss journey today with Dr Frank’s. It all begins with a simple assessment!
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Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”
Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”
Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months
“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”
Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months
“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”
Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months
“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”
Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months
“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”
Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months
“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”