Wegovy 7.2mg is a newer strength of the weight loss injection semaglutide. Developed by Novo Nordisk, this is intended to help patients who have plateaued on the current maximum dose of 2.4mg
In STEP UP clinical trials, this new dose demonstrated an average weight loss of 20.7% over 72 weeks. This makes the new dose a significant advancement for those seeking enhanced weight loss support.
At Quick Meds, we're committed to keeping our patients informed about the latest developments in weight loss treatment. Here's everything you need to know about Wegovy 7.2mg, including when it might become available in the UK.
What is Wegovy 7.2mg?
Wegovy is a weight loss treatment containing the active ingredient semaglutide. As a GLP-1 agonist, semaglutide works by reducing appetite and helping you feel fuller for longer. The medication is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection and is only available on prescription.
The current maximum approved dose of Wegovy is 2.4mg. Whilst many patients achieve significant results at this dose, some find their journey stalls over time. The newer dose has been developed specifically to address this challenge, offering a higher dose option for those who need additional support to continue to benefit from treatment.
The manufacturer Novo Nordisk has submitted an application for European Medicines Agency (EMA) approval in July 2025. Once approved, the higher dose can be used to help patients already established on Wegovy.
How Effective is Wegovy 7.2mg? STEP UP Trial Results
The STEP UP clinical trial compared the effectiveness of the new dose with the current maximum dose, 2.4mg. This trial, conducted over 72 weeks in more than 1,400 adults demonstrated a meaningful improvement over the current maximum dose.
Weight Loss Comparison: 7.2mg vs 2.4mg
| Outcome Measure | Wegovy 7.2mg | Wegovy 2.4mg |
|---|---|---|
| Average weight loss | 20.7% | 17.5% |
| Patients achieving more than 20% weight loss | 50.9% | 35.1% |
| Patients achieving more than 25% weight loss | 33.2% | 16.7% |
The results show the new 7.2mg dose doubles the likelihood of achieving 25% weight loss compared to the 2.4mg dose. For a patient weighing 100kg (approximately 15 stone 10 pounds), this could mean losing over 20kg rather than 17.5kg.
It's worth noting that in the trial, patients escalated directly from 2.4mg to 7.2mg without intermediary doses. This was designed to compare the effectiveness of the new dose directly against the current maximum.
Wegovy 7.2mg vs Mounjaro: How Do They Compare?
With Mounjaro (tirzepatide) currently being the market leader for weight loss, many patients want to understand how the new Wegovy dose compares.
The SURMOUNT-5 trial trial compared the highest dose of Mounjaro (15mg) against Wegovy 2.4mg, with Mounjaro achieving 20.2% weight loss compared to 13.7% for Wegovy 2.4mg. This established Mounjaro as the more effective option at those doses.
However, the STEP UP trial results change this picture. Wegovy 7.2mg achieved 20.7% weight loss, which is comparable to and slightly exceeds Mounjaro's 20.2% result. While these medications haven't been compared head-to-head at these doses, the independent trial data suggests similar effectiveness.
Key Differences Between Wegovy 7.2mg and Mounjaro 15mg
For patients already established on Wegovy but have plateaued, the 7.2mg dose offers an opportunity to reinvigorate their weight loss journey without switching to a different medication. This continuity may be particularly valuable for those who tolerate Wegovy well.
| Factor | Wegovy 7.2mg | Mounjaro 15mg |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| How it works | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist |
| Weight loss | 20.7% | 20.2% |
| Injection Frequency | Once weekly | Once weekly |
| Max dose in class | Yes (for semaglutide) | Yes (for tirzepatide) |
Who is Eligible for Wegovy 7.2mg?
Eligibility for Wegovy 7.2mg is expected to follow the same criteria as other doses, with additional requirements specific to this higher strength.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
To be prescribed Wegovy, you must meet one of these criteria alongside making sustainable lifestyle changes: - BMI of 30 or above (classified as obesity), or - BMI of 27 or above with at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
Specific Requirements for the 7.2mg Dose
The 7.2mg dose is not a starting point. To receive Wegovy 7.2mg, you must: - Already be taking Wegovy 2.4mg - Be tolerating the 2.4mg dose well with minimal side effects - Have reached a plateau in your weight loss or require additional support to meet your goals
You cannot start Wegovy treatment at the 7.2mg dose, and you cannot switch directly from other weight loss medications such as Mounjaro or Saxenda to Wegovy 7.2mg.
The Dose Escalation Journey
All Wegovy patients follow a gradual dose escalation schedule to minimise side effects:
- Weeks 1–4: 0.25mg once weekly
- Weeks 5–8: 0.5mg once weekly
- Weeks 9–12: 1mg once weekly
- Weeks 13–16: 1.7mg once weekly
- Week 17 onwards: 2.4mg once weekly (current maximum)
- Future option: 7.2mg once weekly (once approved)
Each increase occurs every four weeks, allowing your body to adjust gradually. Our pharmacists work closely with patients throughout this process to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Wegovy 7.2mg Side Effects: What to Expect
The side effects of Wegovy 7.2mg are similar to those seen with other doses in the Wegovy range. However, clinical trial data shows they occur slightly more frequently at the higher dose.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
In the STEP UP trial, gastrointestinal adverse events were reported by 70.8% of patients taking 7.2mg compared to 61.2% of those on 2.4mg. The most common include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Bloating
These side effects are more likely to occur when starting treatment and when increasing the dose. They usually improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Other Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Injection site reactions
Serious Side Effects (Rare)
While uncommon, more serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention:
- Gallstones: Signs include severe abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right area
- Acute pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back, along with nausea and vomiting
- Severe allergic reactions: Including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and severe rash
- Kidney problems: Particularly in those with existing kidney conditions
The gradual dose escalation approach helps minimise side effects by allowing your body time to adjust at each stage.
When Will Wegovy 7.2mg Be Available in the UK?
Wegovy 7.2mg is not currently available in the UK or anywhere else in the world. This dose is in the regulatory approval process.
Current Status
Novo Nordisk submitted an application for EMA (European Medicines Agency) approval in July 2025. The EMA approval process involves a thorough review of clinical trial data to confirm safety and efficacy. This typically takes several months.
UK Timeline
Following EMA approval, the medication will need to go through additional UK-specific processes before becoming available. We expect the 7.2mg dose to become available in the UK during mid to late 2026, though exact timing depends on regulatory decisions.
What This Means for You
If you're currently taking Wegovy: Continue with your current dose as prescribed. The 2.4mg dose remains an effective treatment option. We will contact eligible patients as soon as the 7.2mg dose becomes available.
If you're new to Wegovy: Starting treatment now means you'll progress through the dose escalation schedule. By the time you would be expected to reach the 7.2mg dose, it may well be available, ensuring no delays in your treatment progression.
How Much Will Wegovy 7.2mg Cost?
Official pricing for Wegovy 7.2mg has not yet been announced. However, it is expected to cost more than the current 2.4mg dose for several reasons:
- Higher quantity of active ingredient per dose
- Increased manufacturing costs
- Premium positioning as an enhanced treatment option
We will publish pricing information as soon as it becomes available. Register below to receive updates including pricing details when announced.
How to Get Wegovy 7.2mg from Quick Meds
Quick Meds is a GPhC-registered online pharmacy committed to supporting patients throughout their weight loss journey.
For Current Wegovy Patients
If you're already taking Wegovy from Quick Meds, you don't need to take any action. Our pharmacists monitor patient progress and will contact eligible patients as soon as the 7.2mg dose is approved and available. We'll review your treatment history and discuss whether the higher dose is appropriate for your individual needs.
For New Patients
If you haven't started Wegovy yet, now is an excellent time to begin your weight loss journey. Starting today means you'll complete the necessary dose escalation, and by the time you reach the maintenance phase, the 7.2mg option may be available to you.
To start treatment, you'll need to:
- Complete our online consultation
- Have your information reviewed by our prescribers
- If approved, receive your medication delivered to your door
- Begin your dose escalation under our clinical guidance
[START YOUR WEGOVY CONSULTATION] (https://quickmeds.co.uk/online-clinic/weight-loss/wegovy/)
Summary
Wegovy 7.2mg represents an important advancement in weight loss treatment, offering patients who have plateaued on the 2.4mg dose an opportunity to achieve enhanced results. With the STEP UP trial demonstrating 20.7% average weight loss over 72 weeks, this new dose puts Wegovy on par with the best-performing weight loss medications currently available.
While we await approval, Quick Meds remains committed to providing the highest standard of weight loss support to our patients. Whether you're currently on Wegovy or considering starting treatment, our GPhC-registered pharmacists are here to guide you every step of the way.
[REGISTER FOR WEGOVY 7.2MG UPDATES] | Start Your Wegovy Consultation
FAQs
Can I switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy 7.2mg?
You cannot switch directly from Mounjaro to Wegovy 7.2mg. If you wanted to try Wegovy, you would need to start at the 0.25mg dose and gradually escalate through all doses. This process takes at least 16 weeks to reach 2.4mg.
Where can I buy Wegovy 7.2mg in the UK?
Wegovy 7.2mg is not yet available in the UK. Once approved, Quick Meds will stock the 7.2mg dose and notify registered patients of availability. Register for updates to be among the first to know.
How quickly can I expect results with Wegovy 7.2mg?
Individual results vary based on factors including starting weight, diet, and exercise habits. In the STEP UP trial, the average weight loss of 20.7% was achieved over 72 weeks (approximately 18 months). Most patients notice changes within the first few months of treatment.
Is Wegovy 7.2mg safe?
Clinical trials demonstrated a similar safety profile to the 2.4mg dose, with the most common side effects being gastrointestinal symptoms. These were slightly more frequent at 7.2mg but remained manageable for most patients. As with all Wegovy doses, 7.2mg will be prescription-only and require medical supervision.
What's the difference between Wegovy and Ozempic?
Both medications contain semaglutide, but they're licensed for different purposes. Wegovy is approved for weight loss with doses up to 7.2mg (pending approval). Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes management with a maximum dose of 2mg. The 7.2mg dose is specific to Wegovy and is not available in Ozempic.
Can I buy Wegovy 7.2mg without a prescription?
No. Wegovy 7.2mg, like all Wegovy doses, is a prescription-only medication. You must complete a consultation with a qualified prescriber who will assess your eligibility before the medication can be dispensed.
Will the NHS prescribe Wegovy 7.2mg?
NHS availability of Wegovy 7.2mg will depend on NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidance once the dose is approved. Currently, NHS access to any Wegovy dose is limited. Most patients obtain Wegovy through private prescriptions from providers like Quick Meds.
Can I switch from 2.4mg to 7.2mg immediately?
Switching will depend on individual circumstances. If you're tolerating 2.4mg well and have reached a plateau, you may be eligible to increase to 7.2mg once it's available. Our pharmacists will assess each patient individually to ensure the increase is safe and appropriate.
Why did Novo Nordisk introduce the 7.2mg dose?
Novo Nordisk developed the 7.2mg dose to help adults who have already used lower doses and either did not achieve their weight loss goals or reached a plateau on the current maximum 2.4mg dose. It provides an option to enhance results without switching to a different medication.
What if I'm happy with my current Wegovy dose?
If you're achieving your weight loss goals and are happy with your progress on your current dose, there's no need to increase. The 7.2mg dose is specifically designed for patients who have plateaued or need additional support. Many patients achieve excellent long-term results on 2.4mg or lower doses.