Authored: 19/03/2023
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Overview
Ozempic Weight Loss Injection UK
You can buy Ozempic for weight loss online, known as Wegovy in the UK, from Simple Online Pharmacy. Ozempic itself is not licensed for use in the UK for weight loss, but is instead licensed for use for Diabetes. Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain the active ingredient Semaglutide, but Wegovy is formulated specifically for weight loss, and so is more effective.
While Ozempic only titrates to 2mg of Semaglutide, it's sister brand, Wegovy, is licensed to be used for weight loss all the way to 2.4mg. This results in more meaningful weight loss than Ozempic. Wegovy was released in mid-2023, and is exactly the same active ingredient as Ozempic. It is licensed for weight loss, and is easier to administer the recommended dosages for maximum benefit.
Saxenda is another drug from this class of medicines, and also is a GLP-1 agonist. All three drugs, contain similar active ingredients and are injected under the skin (subcutaneously) daily to help suppress appetite.
The latest and most effective of the class of drugs is Mounjaro, which helps patients achieve an average of around 20% body weight loss, vs ~14% with Ozempic.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is an injectable medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It helps the body to reduce high blood sugar levels. By controlling blood sugar levels it reduces the risk of diabetic complications like heart disease and heart attacks.
It contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which is known as a GLP-1 analogue. It 's a weekly injection and the dose is gradually increased over 4 - 8 weeks until a maintenance dose is reached.
How Does It Work for Weight Loss?
Examining how Ozempic works for weight loss leads us to the active ingredient, semaglutide. It is very similar to a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1. This hormone plays an important role in appetite control and regulation. By mimicking this hormone, semaglutide helps to regulate your appetite and make you feel fuller and less hungry. This can lead to people eating less and losing weight.
Ozempic Dosage for Weight Loss
The Ozempic dosage for weight loss is typically titrated up to a maximum dose of 2mg weekly, as tolerated by each individual patient. A month should be taken at each strength, to make sure your body adjusts well to the medication. You can read more in our full guide on ozempic dosage for weight loss.
Switch from Ozempic to Wegovy
If you are already taking Ozempic for weight loss, you can make a direct dosage switch to Wegovy. For example, if you are taking 1mg of Ozempic, you can instead order Wegovy 1mg. If you are taking 2mg of Ozempic, you can move up to the 2.4mg Wegovy dose. Just complete our online assessment, and provide our prescribers with all information of your Ozempic history. Our GPs can then help you switch over to Wegovy safely. As it's the same drug, you shouldn't notice any new side effects, unless you are increasing your dose.
Is Ozempic Legal?
Ozempic is a fully approved and licensed medicine in the UK. However, it 's only been approved as a treatment for type 2 diabetes and isn 't currently licensed as a weight-loss treatment. You may find certain private weight loss clinics prescribing it and this is legal but it's known as 'off-label' prescribing. This is when a medicine is prescribed outside the scope of its licence.
If you do buy Ozempic online, you should make sure that the website you are buying from is a UK registered and regulated online pharmacy.
Prices
| Dosage | Price | Price per Pen |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Pen 0.25mg | £139 | |
| 1 Pen 0.5mg | £139 | |
| 1 Pen 1mg | £169.99 | |
| 1 Pen 1.7mg | £212.50 | |
| 1 Pen 2.4mg | £255.00 | |
| 2 Pens 1mg | £319.99 | £159.99/pen |
| 2 Pens 2.4mg | £549.99 | £274.99/pen |
| 2 Pens 0.25mg + 0.5mg | £319.99 | £159.99/pen |
| 2 Pens 0.5mg + 1mg | £319.99 | £159.99/pen |
Ozempic Side Effects
The side effects below are taken from the Ozempic patient information leaflet. This leaflet has been produced for people taking Ozempic for type 2 diabetes treatment. The information may not be correct for people using Ozempic for weight loss through a private clinic because the doses used may differ.
Two very common side effects are nausea and diarrhoea. These are thought to affect more than 1 in 10 people using this medicine. These side effects usually improve after using this medicine for some time.
An uncommon but serious side effect is an inflamed pancreas (acute pancreatitis). This can cause severe pain in the stomach and back which doesn 't go away. Anyone with signs of this side effect should seek medical attention.
Other side effects include vomiting, stomach bloating, tiredness, reduced appetite, and acid reflux. There is also much discussion about "Ozempic Face", and how you can avoid the gaunt appearance of rapid weight loss.
You can read more in our guide on how to manage ozempic side effects.
Is Ozempic Available on the NHS?
Ozempic is available on the NHS for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is not currently offered by the NHS as a weight loss medication. Ozempic is only available for weight loss on private prescriptions from private weight loss clinics. Each private clinic will set its own Ozempic cost to their patients. Buying Ozempic from a UK registered online clinic is legal, however costs can vary dramatically. You should also be satisfied that the care and advice you are receiving will allow you to get the full benefit of the treatment.
The weight-loss treatment orlistat is available on the NHS and it can also be bought from your local pharmacy.
Summary
Price | From £139.00 per pen |
How it works | Suppresses appetite |
Strengths | 0.25mg, 0.5mg and 1.0mg pens available |
Side effects | Can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
Ozempic Alternatives
Although Ozempic isn 't licensed for weight loss, other weight loss injections are licensed in the UK.
- Mounjaro is the latest GLP1 treatment, and is even more effective than Ozempic for weight loss. It can help patients achieve around 20% body weight loss.
- Wegovy contains the same active ingredient but at a different dose. Find out the full differences in 'Wegovy vs Ozempic'.
- Saxenda contains a similar active ingredient (from the same medicine class) and works similarly for weight loss.
- Orlistat. Another licensed weight loss drug in the UK is Orlistat. This is an oral capsule taken up to three times a day with a main meal. Orlistat works by reducing the amount of fat the body absorbs from food, which reduces your calorie intake.
It 's available over the counter under the brand names Alli and Orlos. A prescription-only brand called Xenical is also available.
These weight loss treatments can be ordered online from our online doctor weight loss clinic.
| Medication | Price | % Average Weight Loss |
|---|---|---|
| Ozempic (Semaglutide) | From £139 per pen | Up to 15% |
| Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) | From £139 per pen | Up to 23% |
| Wegovy (Semaglutide) | From £139 per pen | Up to 16% |
| Saxenda (Liraglutide) | From £75.00 per pen | Up to 10% |
Written by Qualified Experts
All of our medication and condition content is written by UK qualified pharmacists and doctors.
Reviewed: 20/03/2025
FAQ
General Information
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP‑1 agonist medication licensed in the UK for managing type 2 diabetes. It improves blood sugar control and reduces cardiovascular risks.
Is Ozempic used for weight loss?
Ozempic is not licensed for weight loss in the UK. However, some private clinics prescribe it “off‑label” for weight management. Wegovy (a higher‑dose semaglutide) is the licensed weight‑loss alternative.
Is Ozempic insulin?
No. Ozempic works by stimulating insulin release, suppressing glucagon, and slowing digestion. It is not a form of insulin replacement therapy.
How does Ozempic work?
It mimics GLP‑1, a hormone that regulates blood sugar by slowing gastric emptying and promoting satiety, leading to improved glucose control and reduced appetite.
Usage & Dosage
How is Ozempic administered?
It is given as a once‑weekly subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
What is the typical dosage?
Ozempic is started at 0.25mg per week for 4 weeks, then increased to 0.5mg. The maximum dose is 1mg per week. Never exceed your prescribed dose.
What if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose within 5 days. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
Can I split Ozempic doses?
No. The pen is pre‑dosed, and splitting doses can result in improper administration.
Effectiveness & Results
How long does Ozempic take to work for blood sugar control?
Blood sugar improvements may begin within weeks, but full effects on HbA1c levels are typically observed after 3–6 months.
Does Ozempic suppress appetite?
Yes. Reduced appetite is a common side effect, which can contribute to weight loss when combined with lifestyle modifications.
Will I regain weight if I stop Ozempic?
Weight regain is possible if lifestyle changes are not maintained. Combining Ozempic with a healthy diet and exercise is essential for long‑lasting results.
Does Ozempic reduce cardiovascular risks?
Yes. Studies show that Ozempic lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Side Effects & Safety
What are the common side effects of Ozempic?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, and headaches.
Can Ozempic cause pancreatitis?
Rarely. If you experience severe abdominal pain, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention. Ozempic should be avoided if you have a history of pancreatitis.
Is Ozempic safe during pregnancy?
No. Ozempic is not recommended during pregnancy; insulin is generally preferred due to potential fetal risks observed in animal studies.
Does Ozempic cause thyroid cancer?
Animal studies have linked semaglutide to thyroid tumours. Avoid Ozempic if you or your family have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN syndrome.
Can Ozempic worsen kidney function?
Ozempic may exacerbate pre‑existing kidney issues. Regular kidney monitoring is advised, especially if you are on diuretics or become dehydrated.
Interactions
What medications interact with Ozempic?
Ozempic can interact with insulin, sulfonylureas (which may increase hypoglycaemia risk), and oral contraceptives (which may have reduced efficacy). Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Can I drink alcohol with Ozempic?
Moderate alcohol consumption is generally safe, but excessive drinking may worsen nausea or increase the risk of hypoglycaemia.
Can Ozempic be used with insulin?
Yes, it can be used in combination with insulin under medical supervision. Insulin doses may need adjustment to avoid hypoglycaemia.
Storage
How should Ozempic be stored?
Unopened Ozempic pens should be refrigerated (2–8°C). Once opened, store at room temperature (≤30°C) and use within 56 days.
Access & Cost
Can I buy Ozempic online in the UK?
Yes, Ozempic can be purchased via private clinics. Ensure the pharmacy is MHRA‑regulated and requires a valid prescription.
Is Ozempic available on the NHS?
Ozempic is available on the NHS for type 2 diabetes management. However, prescriptions for weight loss are typically managed privately.
How much does Ozempic cost privately in the UK?
Private pricing generally ranges from £150–£250 per month, depending on the dose and clinic.
What are alternatives to Ozempic?
Alternatives include Wegovy (for weight loss), Saxenda (liraglutide), Mounjaro (tirzepatide), or insulin for diabetes management. Discuss with your doctor to determine the best option for you.
Compare
Treatment Comparison
| Saxenda | Xenical | Orlistat | Mysimba | |
| Ingredient | Liraglutide | Orlistat 120mg | Orlistat 120mg | Naltrexone/Bupropion |
| Mechanism | Regulates appetite | Reduces fat absorption | Reduces fat absorption | Regulates appetite |
| Dose | Injected once daily | One three times daily with meals | One three times daily with meals | Gradually increased to 4 tablets daily |
Warnings
Warnings
Ozempic is not suitable for everyone. It should not be taken by anyone who’s allergic to semaglutide or any of the other ingredients. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take this medicine.
Studies have shown that the family of medicines that semaglutide belongs to (GLP-1 analogues) can cause thyroid tumors in rats. There is very little data about this effect on humans, but the risk cannot be excluded.
For more information on the warnings associated with this medicine, see section 2 of the patient information leaflet.
