Wegovy 7.2mg approved in the UK: what to know about the stronger dose
Ed Milner | Last update: 19th January 2026
The UK’s medicines regulator has approved a higher-dose version of Wegovy – 7.2mg. Until now, the maximum maintenance dose of Wegovy was 2.4mg once weekly. The new 7.2mg dose is a significant increase that may offer enhanced weight loss for those who need it.
Here’s what to know about this new dose, how it works, and what it means for people already using or considering Wegovy.
What is Wegovy 7.2mg?
Wegovy 7.2mg is a higher strength of semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist used to support weight loss and improve metabolic health. It’s the same medication as in the existing Wegovy pens – just a stronger weekly dose.
While 2.4mg has been the standard maintenance dose, some patients plateau or require a higher dose to see continued weight loss. Clinical trials found that patients taking 7.2mg achieved significantly more weight loss compared to those on 2.4mg.
How is it taken?
Right now, Wegovy 7.2mg is only available using 3 x 2.4mg pens injected at the same time — once a week. This means you’ll receive three pens per week (12 doses per month) until a dedicated 7.2mg pen is launched – anytime soon.
You must take all three doses in one sitting for the weekly 7.2mg total.
Is it more effective?
Yes, clinical studies have shown that people using Wegovy 7.2mg lost more weight than those on 2.4mg – with tolerability remaining similar. This makes it a more competitive option alongside Mounjaro (tirzepatide), which has shown higher weight loss rates in recent head-to-head trials.
While Mounjaro currently appears to offer greater average weight loss, this new dose helps narrow the gap for people preferring or responding better to semaglutide.
Who is eligible?
Wegovy 7.2mg is approved for:
- Adults with a BMI of ≥30, or
- Adults with a BMI of ≥27 and weight-related conditions (e.g. Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure)
You’ll usually start on a lower dose and gradually increase over 16–20 weeks. The 7.2mg dose is now recognised as an additional maintenance dose option, alongside 2.4mg.
Related: How GLP-1 weight loss drugs work | How to get a prescription
What are the side effects?
The side effects of the 7.2mg dose are similar to other GLP-1 medications:
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating or acid reflux
These are often most noticeable during dose increases. Starting low and increasing gradually is key to tolerability.
Because 7.2mg is delivered using 3 injections at once, it’s important to follow your provider’s guidance on injection technique and spacing.
Read: How to manage common side effects
Is it available yet – and how much does it cost?
Yes, it’s available in the UK – but only as 3 x 2.4mg pens taken together. A dedicated 7.2mg pen is expected soon.
As of now, prices for 7.2mg Wegovy have not been officially released.
Final word from SlimrChat
Wegovy 7.2mg is a major step forward for patients who’ve plateaued or need more support. It brings Wegovy closer to Mounjaro in terms of effectiveness, while maintaining a proven safety record.
If you’re already using Wegovy and not seeing results at 2.4mg, this may be a conversation to have with your prescriber. As always, dose changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
We’ll update you as new 7.2mg pens and pricing roll out.