Wegovy 7.2mg Explained: A Complete Guide to the New Dose
As of January 2026, the maximum weekly dose of Wegovy has increased from 2.4mg to 7.2mg, following approval by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Studies suggest that this newly approved dosage may be more effective for further weight reduction among adults with obesity.
At present, the 7.2mg dose is delivered by taking three 2.4mg injections at the same time, using the standard 2.4mg Wegovy pen. A dedicated Wegovy 7.2mg pen is expected to become available later in 2026, allowing the full dose to be administered in a single injection.
This higher dose of Wegovy 7.2mg is now available through UK-licensed prescribing services, subject to clinical assessment.
In this guide, we outline the effectiveness of the higher dosage, explain how it’s administered, and provide advice on safely increasing your dosage or switching from a different treatment.
What Is the New Wegovy 7.2mg Dose?
Wegovy 7.2mg is the newly approved, higher-dose version of the semaglutide weight-loss treatment manufactured by Novo Nordisk.
Clinical trials of Wegovy 7.2mg have shown that, on average, patients can lose just over 20% of their body weight, offering results similar to those achieved with the maximum dose of the leading weight-loss and type 2 diabetes treatment, Mounjaro.
The active ingredient in Wegovy 7.2mg is semaglutide. It works by mimicking GLP-1, a gut hormone that helps reduce hunger and cravings, promoting a more sustained feeling of fullness.
When Will the New Wegovy 7.2mg Dose Be Available in the UK?
The higher Wegovy dosage license was approved on 12 January 2026 and is now available through UK-licensed prescribing services.
Wegovy 7.2mg is available on a prescription-only basis and under medical supervision. Following a clinical assessment, patients can begin a treatment plan tailored to their weight loss and health goals.
How Effective Is the New Wegovy 7.2mg Dose?
In the 72-week STEP UP trial, people taking the higher 7.2mg dose of semaglutide lost more weight on average than those taking the 2.4mg dose or a placebo.
Participants were randomly assigned to each group, and neither they nor the researchers knew which treatment anyone was receiving. This helps ensure the results are fair and unbiased.
On average, participants lost:
- 20.7% of their body weight with semaglutide 7.2mg
- 17.5% with semaglutide 2.4mg
- 2.4% with placebo, which looks the same as the treatment but contains no active ingredients
Who Is Wegovy 7.2mg Suitable For?
Pending a clinical assessment, Wegovy 7.2mg is a suitable treatment for patients aged 18 years and above who meet any of the following criteria:
- Patients with a BMI of 27 or above.
- Patients with weight-related health conditions, such as prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
It’s important to note that this treatment is most effective when combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
How can I Switch to the New Wegovy 7.2mg Dose?
If you are considering moving to a higher dose, it’s important to know that you will need to have been using the 2.4mg dose for at least four weeks. If you are new to Wegovy, treatment will not start at the 7.2mg dose.
As part of your clinical assessment, a pharmacist will review how you are responding to your current dose, including any side effects, and whether a higher dose is likely to be appropriate for you.
The Wegovy 7.2mg dose follows the standard Wegovy dosing schedule. Treatment starts at the lowest dose and is gradually increased at four-week intervals (or longer if clinically appropriate) until the most suitable maintenance dose is reached.
Wegovy Weight Loss Injections
Wegovy is a specially formulated medication that’s clinically proven to aid weight loss. Taken as a weekly injection, it could help to control your appetite and prevent you eating more than you need to.
How To Take the Wegovy 7.2mg Dose
Taking the 7.2mg dose involves a few extra steps compared with lower doses, but the process is straightforward once you know what to expect. The guidance below explains how to take the dose correctly and reduce the risk of injection-site issues.
Wegovy 7.2mg Usage Instructions
- You will continue to take the treatment once per week.
- A full dose will require three separate injections of the 2.4mg dose.
- You must use a NEW needle for each injection (three needles per week).
- Each injection must be given at a different site.
- Each new injection site must be at least 5cm away from any previous injection.
Although alternative injection sites can be used depending on preference, we recommend:
- 1 injection in the left leg
- 1 injection in the right leg
- 1 injection in the stomach
Usage instructions will change once the new 7.2mg pen becomes available in the UK.
Detailed instructions can be found on the Wegovy patient information leaflet. Specific instructions on administering the 7.2mg dose will be provided with your prescription.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Wegovy 7.2mg?
Taking 7.2mg of Wegovy is associated with side effects similar to those seen at lower doses.
Side effects normally affect the digestive system, with around 1 in 10 patients commonly experiencing:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
Where and When Can I Purchase the New Wegovy 7.2mg Dose in the UK?
Wegovy 7.2mg has been approved for use in the UK and can be prescribed through UK-licensed prescribing services, such as The Independent Pharmacy, following a clinical assessment.
Before any change in dose is recommended, a qualified healthcare professional will review your medical history, current treatment and any pre-existing health conditions to ensure the higher dose is safe and appropriate for you.
Wegovy 7.2mg FAQs
Why is Novo Nordisk introducing the new 7.2mg dose?
Novo Nordisk submitted the higher 7.2mg dose to regulators because clinical trial data showed greater weight loss compared to the 2.4mg dose, offering another treatment option for people with obesity.
How much does Wegovy 7.2mg cost?
One 7.2mg pen is retailing at £319.99 at the time of writing.
Can I switch from Wegovy 2.4mg to the 7.2mg dose?
Yes. If you’re already on the weekly 2.4mg dose of Wegovy, you may be able to increase your dose up to 7.2mg, depending on assessment. Do not adjust your dosage without consulting your prescriber.
Can I switch to Wegovy 7.2mg from a different treatment?
Yes. In some cases, you may be able to switch from another weight loss treatment, but this requires careful planning and consultation. Our clinicians will consider factors such as your current medication, any side effects and your overall health before recommending any change.
Can I get Wegovy 7.2mg on the NHS?
No. Wegovy 7.2mg is not yet available on the NHS. While the treatment has been approved by the MHRA, it’s pending approval and licensing by NICE at the time of writing.
How much weight could I lose with Wegovy 7.2mg?
The STEP UP clinical trial reports a weight loss of just over 20% after 72 weeks; however, this may not be the case for all users.
Wegovy 7.2mg represents a significant step forward in medical weight management, providing a structured, clinically guided approach for patients who need additional support to achieve sustainable weight loss outcomes.
Understanding how this dose works, who it’s suitable for and how to use it safely is essential for long-term success. That’s why personalised advice matters.
Have a question?
If you’d like more information about Wegovy, your treatment options, or an existing order, our customer service team can help. Complete the contact form and we’ll respond within one business day.
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Sources:
- GOV.UK. GLP-1 medicines for weight loss and diabetes: what you need to know. London: UK Government; [cited 2026 Jan]. Available from: https://www.gov.uk
- Wharton S, Freitas P, Hjelmesæth J, Kabisch M, Kandler K, Lingvay I, et al. Efficacy and safety of semaglutide 7.2mg in adults with obesity: the STEP UP trial. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2025;13(11):949–963. Available from: https://diabetesjournals.org/diabetes/article/74/Supplement_1/1966-LB/158768/1966-LB-Efficacy-and-Safety-of-Semaglutide-7-2-mg
- Electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC). Wegovy® FlexTouch® 2.4 mg solution for injection: patient information leaflet. Datapharm; [cited 2026 Jan]. Available from: https://www.medicines.org.uk
- Diabetes UK. What is Wegovy? Uses, how it works and side effects. London: Diabetes UK; [cited 2026 Jan]. Available from: https://www.diabetes.org.uk
- Wharton S, Freitas P, Hjelmesæth J, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide 7.2mg in adults with obesity (STEP UP): a randomised, controlled, phase 3b trial. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2025;13(11):949–963. Available from: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landia/article/PIIS2213-8587(25)00226-8/abstract
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About the Author
Dan is an experienced pharmacist having spent time working in both primary and secondary care. He currently supports our clinical team by providing robust clinical governance review of our internal processes and information.
About the Reviewer
Scott is one of the two founders of The Independent Pharmacy. He is a registered pharmacist and the registered manager of our service with the CQC.