Question 1

What is Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide)?

Accepted Answer

Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist made by Novo Nordisk. A once-daily semaglutide tablet, the first GLP-1 tablet authorised for weight management in the UK. It must be swallowed whole on an empty stomach. Rybelsus (also oral semaglutide) is licensed for type 2 diabetes only. It is a prescription-only medicine, so a registered prescriber must assess whether it is suitable for you.

Question 2

How often is Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide) taken?

Accepted Answer

Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide) is taken once a day as a tablet. Swallow the tablet whole on an empty stomach, after at least 8 hours without food, with a sip of water. Then wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking or taking other oral medicines. Always follow your prescriber's instructions and the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medicine.

Question 3

What is the starting dose of Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide)?

Accepted Answer

Treatment usually starts at 1.5mg and the dose is increased gradually, with at least 4 weeks on each dose. Starting low helps the body adjust and can reduce side effects such as nausea. Your prescriber decides if and when to increase your dose.

Question 4

Is Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide) licensed in the UK for weight loss?

Accepted Answer

Licensed in the UK for weight management. MHRA authorised for weight management, 11 June 2026. Licensing can change, so check the MHRA and the SmPC for the latest position.

Question 5

What are the common side effects of Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide)?

Accepted Answer

Commonly reported side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, vomiting and indigestion and reflux. These are often most noticeable when starting treatment or after a dose increase. Seek urgent help if you have severe, persistent stomach pain that may spread to your back. The Patient Information Leaflet lists all known side effects.

Question 6

Can I get Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide) on the NHS?

Accepted Answer

At the time of writing, NICE has not published guidance on Wegovy tablets (oral semaglutide) for weight management, so it is not generally available on the NHS for this use. This may change once NICE completes its appraisal. Your GP can tell you what NHS weight management support is available locally.

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