Posts tagged Weight Loss

Understanding the Mounjaro to Wegovy Switch Process

Making the decision to switch from Mounjaro (tirzepatide) to Wegovy (semaglutide) represents a significant step in your weight loss journey. We can facilitate this transition when patients seek alternative treatment options or require dosage adjustments for optimal results.

Essential Safety Guidelines When You Switch from Mounjaro

Critical Timing Requirements

When planning your switch from Mounjaro, timing becomes absolutely crucial for your safety. You must never combine these medications simultaneously, as this combination creates serious health risks and potentially dangerous side effects.

Healthcare professionals mandate a minimum seven-day waiting period between your final Mounjaro injection and your initial Wegovy dose. This waiting period allows your body to start to eliminate the remaining tirzepatide while potentially preventing harmful drug interactions.

This means that if you usually take your Mounjaro on a Monday then you can start your new dose of Wegovy on the same day the following week after your last dose of Mounjaro. Therefore, no gap in treatment.

Why Simultaneous Use Poses Serious Risks

Taking Mounjaro and Wegovy together consistently amplifies side effects significantly. Both medications affect blood sugar levels and digestive processes, making concurrent use potentially hazardous.

Determining Your Appropriate Wegovy Starting Dose

Professional Medical Assessment

We will advise you on your switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy. These recommendations determine the most suitable Wegovy starting dose based on your current dose of Mounjaro.

Your new dosage may differ significantly from your previous Mounjaro prescription. The dosing protocols have been designed to ensure smooth transitions while maintaining treatment effectiveness.

⚠️ Side Effects: If you struggled with side effects on Mounjaro, you may want to start Wegovy at a lower dose

Once you have transitioned to your new Wegovy dose you then follow the recommended dosage escalation schedule for Wegovy.

The following table shows the cost saving on the month you transition from Mounjaro to Wegovy.

Buy Wegovy

WebMed Pharmacy Switch Options

Existing Patient Pathway

Current WebMed Pharmacy patients enjoy streamlined processes when they switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy. These patients complete shortened medical questionnaires, expediting their transition to Wegovy treatment.

This approach helps patients continue their weight loss progress without significant interruptions.

New Patient Requirements

Patients prescribed Mounjaro elsewhere face more comprehensive evaluation processes. WebMed Pharmacy requires complete medical questionnaires and mandatory video consultations to assess clinical appropriateness for the switch.

This thorough approach ensures new patients receive appropriate care while meeting regulatory requirements for medication transitions.

Alternative: Continuing Your Mounjaro Journey

Seamless Treatment Continuation

Patients may choose continuing Mounjaro treatment instead of switching medications. WebMed Pharmacy accommodates this preference when patients provide recent supply evidence from previous healthcare providers.

This option suits patients experiencing positive results with Mounjaro who prefer maintaining their current treatment protocol rather than transitioning to alternative medications.

Documentation Requirements

Continuing Mounjaro treatment requires proper documentation verification. Patients must demonstrate recent prescription history and supply records from authorized healthcare providers to ensure treatment continuity.

Making Your Decision: Switch or Continue

Factors Influencing Treatment Choices

Several considerations impact your decision to switch from Mounjaro or continue current treatment. These include treatment effectiveness, side effect profiles, monetary considerations and long-term health objectives.

Long-term Health Goal Alignment

Successful weight loss medication transitions support comprehensive long-term health strategies. Whether you switch from Mounjaro or continue current treatment, the chosen approach must align with your broader wellness objectives and lifestyle requirements.

Conclusion

Successfully managing your switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy requires professional medical guidance, proper timing, and careful attention to safety protocols. WebMed Pharmacy provides comprehensive support for both medication transitions and treatment continuations, ensuring patients receive appropriate care throughout their weight loss journeys.

Why consider switching to Wegovy?

Apart from monetary considerations, many patients are choosing Wegovy for several other reasons:

• Heart health advantages: Wegovy is uniquely approved for lowering the likelihood of major cardiovascular events in people with existing heart disease, even if they do not lose substantial weight. Research shows it may cut the risk of heart attack and stroke by up to 20%.
• Improved waist measurements: Clinical trials reported participants trimming as much as 5.7 inches from their waistlines, a change that supports vascular and overall heart health.
• Body composition support: Evidence highlights that Wegovy promotes the reduction of visceral fat while helping preserve lean muscle tissue, which plays an important role in sustaining metabolic function.
• Robust clinical outcomes: Studies confirm that Wegovy can produce 15%–20% average body weight loss, results that rival those achieved with Mounjaro.
• STEP-UP trial success: At an escalated 7.2 mg dose, participants in clinical studies achieved 21%–25% weight loss, demonstrating performance similar to Mounjaro’s in head-to-head evaluations.

References

1) Teague M, Martinez A, Walker E, El-Rifai M, Carris NW. Use and Interchange of Incretin Mimetics in the Treatment of Metabolic Diseases: A Narrative Review. The Metabolic Health Blog. 2025 Aug 25. Available from: https://www.metabolichealthblog.com/incretin-mimetics-review

2) Jain, Akshay B., et al. "Switching between GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Clinical Practice: Expert Consensus and Practical Guidance." International Journal of Clinical Practice, vol. 75, no. 3, 2021, e13731. Wiley, https://doi.org/10.1111/ijcp.13731

3) Lincoff, A. M., et al. “Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes.” The New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 389, no. 24, 2023, pp. 2221–2232.

4) Wharton, S., Freitas, P., Hjelmesaeth, J., Kabisch, M., Kandler, K., Lingvay, I., Quiroga Pelaez, M. D. L. A., Rosenstock, J., & Garvey, W. T. (2025). Efficacy and safety of semaglutide 7.2 mg in obesity: The STEP UP trial. Diabetes, 74(Supplement 1), 1966-LB. https://doi.org/10.2337/db25-1966-LB

Eli Lilly has announced a significant Mounjaro price increase that will affect UK patients starting September 1st, 2025. The pharmaceutical giant, which manufactures Mounjaro (tirzepatide), has implemented this pricing change as part of a broader strategy to align UK costs with other European markets.

Mounjaro (mg)	Current Price	New Price	% Increase
2.5 mg	£150	£170	13.3%
5 mg	£150	£205	36.7%
7.5 mg	£170	£260	52.9%
10 mg	£190	£290	52.6%
12.5 mg	£215	£310	44.2%
15 mg	£215	£330	53.5%

Understanding the Mounjaro Price Increase Impact

Why Is Mounjaro Getting More Expensive?

The price increase stems from Eli Lilly's decision to standardize Mounjaro pricing across European markets. This manufacturer-level decision means that all pharmacies including WebMed Pharmacy have no control over the cost adjustments, despite our commitment to maintaining affordable patient care.

What This Means for Current Mounjaro Users

Patients currently benefiting from Mounjaro treatment face uncertainty about continued access to this life-changing medication. We recognize that this price increase affects real people who have experienced remarkable health transformations through Mounjaro (tirzepatide) therapy.

The Life-Changing Impact of Mounjaro Treatment

We have seen extraordinary patient transformations over the past year, including:

• Significant health improvements
• Restored confidence levels
• Renewed hope for better quality of life
• Sustainable weight management results

These outcomes represent more than clinical statistics—they reflect genuine human experiences and life-changing journeys that the Mounjaro price increase now threatens to disrupt.

AAH, our wholesaler and sole supplier of Mounjaro, is increasing the prices to us from next Thursday 28th August and so we will try not to apply the increase until Monday 1st September. However, this may not be possible as AAH have set monthly quotas and we may not be able to order some strengths that we have run out of until the start of September!

Support Resources During the Price Transition

WebMed Pharmacy Commitment

Despite the challenging price increase, we remain dedicated to:

• Maintaining transparent communication with patients
• Providing comprehensive guidance throughout the transition
• Ensuring fair treatment access whenever possible
• Offering ongoing support for treatment continuity

Patient Support Options

Patients concerned about the Mounjaro cost changes should know they have access to:

• Professional healthcare guidance
• Treatment alternative discussions
• Continuous care coordination

Preparing for September 2025 Changes

Taking Action Before the Price Increase

Patients currently using Mounjaro should:

1. Consult with WebMed Pharmacy about treatment options
2. Discuss alternative treatment strategies if needed
3. Plan for potential cost adjustments in their healthcare budget

Long-term Treatment Planning

The Mounjaro price increase requires patients and providers to develop sustainable long-term treatment strategies that balance clinical effectiveness with financial accessibility.

Moving Forward Despite Pricing Challenges

While the Mounjaro price increase presents significant challenges for UK patients, we remain committed to supporting patient health journeys. The focus continues on ensuring that life-changing treatments remain accessible despite manufacturer pricing decisions beyond local control.

Patients facing concerns about the upcoming price increase should remember that WebMed Pharmacy will offer comprehensive support to help navigate these changes while maintaining their health and wellness goals.

Exciting News for Weight Loss Journeys

Hey there, weight loss warriors! We've got some fantastic news that's sure to put a spring in your step. Remember Saxenda, that daily weight loss pen we've all come to know and love? Well, it's about to get a new friend in town!

Say Hello to Nevolat

Novo Nordisk's Saxenda has been a real game-changer for many of us, but guess what? Its patent has expired, and now other companies can join the party. Enter Zentiva, a pharmaceutical company that's created a generic version called Nevolat.

Same Active Ingredient, New Name

Here's the scoop: Nevolat contains liraglutide, the exact same active ingredient as Saxenda. So, you're getting the same powerful weight loss helper, just with a different name tag.

The Big Win: More Affordable Weight Loss

Nevolat from Webmed Buy now Now, here's where things get really exciting. Nevolat is much cheaper than Saxenda. And that's not all – as more pharmaceutical companies start producing their own versions, we're likely to see prices drop even further.

"Weight loss shouldn't break the bank, and with Nevolat, it doesn't have to!"

Continuing Your Weight Loss Journey

Worried about what'll happen when Saxenda is no longer available? Don't be! With Nevolat you'll be able to keep up your weight loss journey without missing a beat.

Options for Everyone

Whether Saxenda becomes harder to find or you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, this new generic version will have you covered. It's all about having choices that fit your needs and your wallet.

"Your weight loss journey is about to get a whole lot more affordable!"

Remember, this is great news for all of us working towards our health goals. More affordable options mean more people can access these helpful tools. Isn't that something to smile about?

· Keep up the great work on your weight loss journey

· Get excited about this new more affordable option

· Look at our Nevolat page now!

Nevolat from Webmed Buy now We're all in this together. Here's to making healthy living more accessible for everyone!

Great news for your weight loss journey!

Hey there! Are you on the hunt for Saxenda? Well, you're in luck because we've got plenty in stock just for you. Let's chat about why this might be exactly what you're looking for.

Buy now

We've got Saxenda ready for you

• No need to search high and low - we've got Saxenda right here
• Plenty of stock available, so you don't have to worry about running out
• Easy ordering process to get you started or continue on your journey

Why Saxenda could be a game-changer for you

Saxenda is known for being pretty effective when it comes to weight loss. Here's why it might work well for you:

• It's a daily medication, which can be easier to remember than weekly ones
• Taking it every day can help you build a consistent routine
• Many people find daily medications fit better into their lifestyle

Stick with what works for you

If you've used Saxenda before and liked the results, that's great! Here's why you might want to keep going:

• You already know how it affects your body
• No surprises or adjustment periods - you can pick up right where you left off
• It's comforting to use something familiar, especially when it comes to your health

"Sometimes, the best path forward is the one you already know works for you."

Ready to order?

If you're thinking Saxenda might be right for you, we're here to help:

• Ordering is quick and easy
• We're always happy to answer any questions you might have
• Your health journey is important to us, and we're glad to be a part of it
• Take part in our Saturday morning Zoom meetings with our Wellness coach

Buy now

Remember, everyone's path to better health is different.

We're here rooting for you on your health journey.

What’s the difference between Wegovy and Mounjaro?

Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are both weekly injectable medications approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and for chronic weight management in adults living with obesity or overweight with at least one weight related condition.

Although they share some similarities, there are key differences in their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and potential side effects.

Do Mounjaro and Wegovy work in the same way?

Mechanism of Action

Wegovy (semaglutide) mimics the action of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone involved in appetite regulation and insulin secretion. By activating GLP-1 receptors, semaglutide increases insulin release in response to high blood sugar and decreases glucagon secretion This helps to reduce appetite and slows gastric emptying making you feel fuller for longer. It also reduces cravings.

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP (Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) and GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it targets two pathways. Along with the benefits provided by GLP-1 receptor activation similar to Wegovy, Mounjaro also activates GIP receptors, which enhances its effects on blood sugar control and weight loss. The dual mechanism is believed to offer more comprehensive benefits for managing diabetes and weight compared to GLP-1 agonists alone.

Can I expect to lose more weight with Mounjaro than Wegovy?

Efficacy

Clinical trials have shown both medications to be effective in lowering blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes and in promoting significant weight loss in individuals living with obesity or overweight. However, the dual-action mechanism of Mounjaro offers an advantage in terms of efficacy for some patients, leading to greater reductions in blood sugar levels and more significant weight loss compared to GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy. You can expect to lose 15% of your starting weight after 52 weeks on Wegovy but with Mounjaro it’s estimated that you could lose 20% of your starting weight.

Are the side effects different between Mounjaro and Wegovy?

Side Effects

Common side effects of both medications include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal pain. These side effects are generally mild to moderate and tend to decrease over time as your body gets used to the medication. However, the incidence and severity of side effects may vary between individuals and between the two medications.

There are also specific warnings and precautions associated with each medication, and their use may be contraindicated in certain individuals with particular medical conditions or histories. For example, Wegovy can be prescribed until you are 74 years of age but Mounjaro can be prescribed up until you’re 84.

Both Wegovy and Mounjaro should not be used during pregnancy, as it is not known if they may affect your unborn child. Therefore, it is recommended to use contraception while using both medications.

Eli Lily, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, recommends that If you wish to become pregnant, you should stop using Mounjaro at least one month in advance but Novo Nordisk, the Manufacturer of Wegovy recommends stopping it at least two months in advance.

Is Mounjaro better than Wegovy?

Conclusion

Wegovy and Mounjaro have been game changers in the battle against obesity. Mounjaro's dual-action mechanism may offer advantages for some patients, but both medications can produce significant weight loss when used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle.

Medically reviewed by
Superintendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons) MRPharmS
26th March 2024

What is the new medicated WebMed Weight Loss Support ?

Not only will we provide you with the medication to control your appetite but lots of support along the way.

Buy Wegovy from Webmed Our mission is to provide you with the best tips and advice to help you reach your health and wellness goals. We understand that taking care of yourself can be difficult, so we’re here to help! Here, you can find delicious recipes for healthy meals, exercise videos and weekly Wellness Coach sessions to help you stay on track.

What help will I get?

First, let’s talk about healthy recipes. Eating a balanced diet is essential for good health, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. We offer a variety of tasty recipes that are packed with nutrients and easy to prepare. From breakfast to dinner, our recipes are sure to please your taste buds and keep you feeling energized.

Second, let’s talk about exercise. Exercise is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Our fitness coach Gemma has designed and easy but effective course of exercise videos designed to help you get moving and stay motivated.

Finally, let’s talk about our weekly Wellness Coach sessions. Our coach is a healthcare professional who will help you to reach your health and wellness goals.

How will the Coach optimise my Weight Loss?

Our coach Kim will provide personalized and tailored advice to help you reach your goals. Kim can help you develop a realistic plan to reach your goal weight. She can help you identify unhealthy habits and behaviours that may be hindering your progress and help you create healthy habits to replace them. Kim can also provide motivation, accountability, and ongoing support throughout the process, helping you create a positive mindset and outlook about your weight loss journey. Most importantly she can provide support and encouragement and help you find the strength to keep going when the going gets tough.

Importance of sleep and water consumption when losing weight?

Sleep and water consumption are two of the most important aspects of any weight loss plan. The quality and quantity of sleep you get each night can have a huge impact on how successful you are in achieving your weight loss goals. Not getting enough sleep can lead to fatigue and cravings, as well as decreased motivation and focus.

Similarly, drinking enough water is essential for weight loss as it helps to keep the body hydrated, enabling it to function optimally as it plays a crucial role in our overall health. When it comes to losing weight, drinking enough water is often overlooked, but it can be a key factor in achieving weight loss goals. Sometimes when we feel hungry, we are actually just thirsty. By drinking water before and during meals, we can prevent overeating and consume fewer calories overall.

Can water help with digestion?

Water is essential for proper digestion. When we are dehydrated, our bodies can struggle to digest food, which can lead to bloating, constipation, and other digestive issues. By drinking enough water, we can help our bodies properly digest food and prevent these issues.

Does drinking water help to reduce water retention?

When we are dehydrated, our bodies tend to hold onto water to prevent dehydration. This can lead to water retention, which can cause bloating and make it appear as though we have gained weight. By drinking enough water, we can help our bodies flush out excess water and reduce water retention.

How much water should you drink when trying to lose weight?

The amount of water you should drink when trying to lose weight can vary depending on your weight, activity level, and other factors. As a general guideline, it is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. However, some experts recommend drinking even more water, especially if you are trying to lose weight.

Why is sleep important for weight loss?                  

Sleep is important for weight loss as it helps to regulate hormones and curb cravings. During sleep, the body produces hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism. Not getting enough sleep can lead to an increase in the hormone ghrelin, which triggers hunger, and a decrease in the hormone leptin, which suppresses appetite. Sleep deprivation has also been linked to an increase in cortisol, a stress hormone that can lead to fat storage. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to keep hormones in balance and cravings at bay. In addition to helping regulate hormones, getting enough sleep also contributes to weight loss by providing energy for physical activity. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lead to decreased motivation and fatigue, which can prevent you from engaging in physical activity. Getting plenty of sleep will help ensure success on your weight loss journey.

WebMed will provide you with the tools and advice to get you to your goal weight and more importantly stay there.

Buy Wegovy from Webmed Find out more

Medically reviewed by
Superintendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons) MRPharmS
11th December 2023

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is the newest weekly weight loss pen from Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Saxenda. 

How does Wegovy work?

Wegovy works like Saxenda by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in regulating appetite and food intake but has a much longer duration of action than Saxenda and so only needs to be used once a week instead of once a day. Wegovy reduces your appetite and slows down the time it takes for your stomach to empty making you feel fuller for longer. This results in you eating less and losing weight.

How effective is wegovy?

In a 68-week medical study of 1,961 adults living with obesity or excess weight with a related medical problem:-

ADULTS LOST ON AVERAGE 35 pounds (16kg) or about 15% of their body weight while taking Wegovy! 

These results are about twice the weight loss of that achieved by Saxenda.

Most importantly, while taking Wegovy, people not only lost weight, but also kept it off! 

Can wegovy help with my other weight related conditions?

Adults taking Wegovy experienced much better improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar than with Saxenda. Thus improving their overall cardiovascular health.

How do I take wegovy?

Wegovy is the first and only prescription weight-management medicine taken once weekly. It’s taken on the same day each week, any time of day, with or without food.

Wegovy is available in 5 doses ranging from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg, each of which is taken once a week for 4 weeks. Each dose comes in a different colour pen.

You should follow a monthly dose escalation to reach the fully effective 2.4mg dose after 4 months.

How much will Wegovy cost?

The Wegovy prices are a lot cheaper than Saxenda and the weight loss experienced is even greater than that with Saxenda and the cardiovascular outcomes far better.

Buy Wegovy from Webmed Find out more

What support will I be offered?

From January 2024 we will not only supply you with Wegovy to control your appetite but offer you lots of other help and support to help you reach your weight loss goal and stay there. 

You can use the 5 pillars of support to make sure that you are successful on your weight loss journey and to give you the best possible outcome. These pillars will help you to adopt healthy habits that will enable lifelong success.

We will provide you with delicious healthy recipes every month to inspire you to eat fewer calories to get you to your goal weight.

Our fitness coach Gemma has designed a programme of easy exercises that you can do in the comfort of your own home to get you moving and increase your metabolism. This will result in you getting fitter and leaner. 

We will advise you on recommended daily water consumption to aid your weight loss.

Tips and advice on how to achieve the best possible nights sleep.

We understand that losing weight is not a simple process and involves getting your mind into the right gear! Therefore, we will suggest a mindfulness App to help you with stress management. 

Kim, our wellness coach will offer you weekly interactive group coaching sessions to inspire you and help you overcome any obstacles that are holding you back from achieving your goal.

This will all be offered at no extra charge!

What if I am already using Saxenda?

Buy Wegovy from Webmed Find out more

If you would like to change to Wegovy from Saxenda we can help you to do that. We will advise on the new dosage of Wegovy and offer you lots of help and support via our new Holistic Weight Loss Support to get you to your goal weight and stay there.

Medically reviewed by
Superintendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons) MRPharmS
10th December 2023

 

We have all become familiar with the great convenience and ease of buying goods online but what about when it comes to medicines?

Buying medicines online, in the comfort of your own home, without having to take time off work or interrupt your busy schedule to visit your GP is a service we would all like to access. It becomes even more attractive if the nature of your treatment is for sensitive or intimate conditions.

But it is critical to make thorough and proper checks before making any online pharmaceutical purchases.  The risks associated with ordering meds online without due diligence are too significant to ignore.

How do you know if you are buying genuine medicines from a reputable registered seller?

It is illegal to buy any prescription only medicine unless a doctor has written a prescription specifically for you.

If a website or any seller is willing to sell a prescription only medicine without a prescription, it should be red flagged and don't buy! Avoid such platforms as they may be operating illegally and compromising your health.

How can you check that the website you want to use to obtain medicines is a legitimate online pharmacy?

All websites selling prescription medication in England should be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), who are a government appointed independent regulator of health and social care.

All fully approved and regulated websites should have a clickable link that will take you to the CQC register to show that they are compliant. Antrobus Medical Limited is the prescribing body for WebMed Pharmacy Ltd.

All medicines supplied from a pharmacy in Great Britain, including internet pharmacies, and must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and meet their standards.

Again, simply click on the logo which should take you through to that particular pharmacy's entry on the GPhC register.

All websites operating in the UK, but outside of England, must be registered with the equivalent body in each country: Healthcare Improvement Scotland, Healthcare Inspectorate Wales, and Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (Northern Ireland).

Therefore, anybody buying medicines from an online pharmacy can check if the pharmacy is legitimately registered by clicking on the logo or going directly to the GPhC website and searching their online register.

What other checks can be made?

For Data Security and Privacy

Always look for secure payment options, SSL encryption. A secure URL should begin with https rather than http. The "S" stands for secure. https://webmedpharmacy.co.uk

Reviewing customer feedback

Whilst they can be manipulated, customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of previous customers.

Click here for WebMed Pharmacy Trustpilot reviews.

You should be able to easily find the name, address and telephone number. An online supplier who conceals its physical address is a warning sign that their products could be dangerous.

When you order any medication from our UK registered and regulated pharmacy you can be assured that you are doing so safely, legally and discreetly.

It is important to avoid drug interactions. A significant risk of ordering medications online without proper checks is the potential for harmful drug interactions. Some drugs can have adverse effects when taken together or when interacting with certain medical conditions. A licensed healthcare provider is trained to consider these factors, whereas an unlicenced online platform might not provide the necessary guidance.

WebMed Pharmacy Ltd is fully approved and regulated, and only supplies medicines from a MHRA accredited wholesaler. You can confidently order from us, knowing that you can complete an online medical questionnaire in the comfort of your own home and if suitable can be prescribed by our GMC regulated doctor.

At WebMed Pharmacy Ltd we provide a confidential, discreet next working day delivery of your chosen medication, within a 1-hour time slot to the vast majority of postcodes in the UK or Click & Collect from a store near you, with a choice of 6,500+ pickup shops nationwide.

In conclusion, the convenience of ordering medications online should not come at the cost of your health and safety. Doing the correct checks before making any online medication purchase is not only prudent but a critical step to safeguarding your well-being.

Quick easy links to our most popular pages with the confidence of knowing we are a fully approved and regulated pharmacy, only supplying UK sourced medication:

Weight Loss

Erectile dysfunction | Sildenafil | Tadalafil

Gonorrhoea treatment | Chlamydia treatment

Hair Loss treatment | Finasteride

STI Tests | HIV Test Kits

Medically reviewed by: Super intendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons)MRPharmS 17 March 2016 
Updated and reviewed 2 May 2017
Updated and reviewed 27 February 2021
Updated and reviewed 8 December 2023

Why is there a Worldwide Shortage of Saxenda?

Unfortunately, there has been a growing concern over the worldwide shortage of Saxenda, a popular prescription medication used for weight management. Saxenda, containing the active ingredient liraglutide, has gained significant recognition as an effective treatment option for individuals struggling to live with obesity. However, the scarcity of this medication has raised questions and caused difficulties for patients and healthcare providers alike. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind the global shortage of Saxenda and discuss its implications.

How does Saxenda work?

Alternative weight loss medications Saxenda, developed by Novo Nordisk, is an injectable medication designed to help individuals living with obesity to achieve and maintain weight loss. It works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone in the body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). By activating specific receptors in the brain, Saxenda helps regulate appetite, leading to reduced food intake and increased satiety. It also delays the time it takes for food to travel through your stomach and so you feel fuller for longer.

What has caused the Worldwide Shortage of Saxenda?

1. Increased Demand: The primary reason behind the Saxenda shortage is the surge in demand. As the prevalence of obesity continues to rise globally, more individuals are seeking medical intervention to address their weight-related health issues. Social Media has also been responsible for the increased as Media stars have advertised how effective Saxenda has been in helping them lose weight. The increased demand has put a strain on the production and supply chain of Saxenda, making it challenging for Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, to keep up with the growing needs.
2. Manufacturing Challenges: Saxenda's manufacturing process is complex and requires stringent quality control measures. Any disruptions in the production line or supply chain can lead to shortages. Manufacturing issues such as raw material shortages, equipment problems, or delays in regulatory approvals can all contribute to the scarcity of Saxenda.
3. Regulatory Hurdles: Different countries have varying regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical products. Obtaining regulatory approvals for Saxenda in certain regions can be time-consuming and complicated. Delays in securing necessary approvals can impact the availability of the medication in those regions, leading to shortages.
4. Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted global supply chains across various industries, including pharmaceuticals. Lockdowns, transportation restrictions, and workforce shortages have affected the production and distribution of medications, including Saxenda.

Is there a Potential Solution to the shortage of Saxenda?

To address this issue, collaboration between Novo Nordisk, regulatory bodies, and healthcare providers is crucial. We are being advised that increased investment in manufacturing capacity, diversification of production facilities, and streamlined regulatory processes are being instigated to alleviate the Saxenda shortage. 

How will the supply shortage affect patients already using Saxenda?

The Saxenda shortage has significant implications for individuals who rely on the medication for weight management. Patients may experience challenges in accessing their prescribed treatment, potentially leading to setbacks in their weight loss journey and overall well-being.

Is there a suitable alternative for patients who cannot get Saxenda?

In the interim, patients can explore alternative weight management strategies and medications.

The following are possible alternatives to promote weight loss :-
Orlistat, Xenical, Orlos or Alli.

Alternative weight loss medications These medications all contain Orlistat. Orlistat works by reducing the amount of fat absorbed from your food. Clinical studies have shown that you are likely to lose 50% more weight if you use Orlistat alongside dieting.

Conclusion

The worldwide shortage of Saxenda poses a significant challenge for individuals who have been using it to battle obesity and healthcare providers who rely on this medication to manage weight-related health issues. Understanding the causes behind the shortage and working towards collaborative solutions can help mitigate the impact on patients. While the situation is complex, the collective efforts of Novo Nordisk, health regulators, and healthcare professionals can pave the way for a more stable supply of Saxenda and improved access to weight management treatments in the future.

Ozempic has not been approved for weight loss in the UK. It only has a licence for controlling blood sugar in type 2 diabetics. The active ingredient in Ozempic is semaglutide which is also the active ingredient in Wegovy.(1)

Wegovy has been approved in the UK for weight loss in overweight or obese adults. In trials used alongside a healthy diet and exercise it helped obese people lose between 15-20% of their body weight – about 2 stone (13kg) on average. Wegovy should be available in the UK early 2023.(2)

Are Ozempic and Saxenda the same thing?

Ozempic was developed for the management of type-2 diabetes and not for weight loss. It contains the active ingredient semaglutide.

Buy Saxenda online From only £50 per pen Liraglutide belongs to the same family of drugs as semaglutide. Under the brand of Victoza it is an anti-diabetic medicine for use in the treatment of type-2 diabetes and under the brand Saxenda it’s an anti-obesity and chronic weight management drug. If it’s used on a daily basis alongside a healthy diet and increased exercise it’s a very effective tool on your weight loss journey.

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide, sold in the brand name Ozempic is a medication taken by weekly injection and can be used for the treatment of adults with insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes to improve glycaemic control alongside diet and exercise.(1)

Semaglutide sold under the brand name Wegovy is effectively a modified gut hormone and can also be prescribed, from early next year, for weight loss for obese or overweight adults with an underlying health issue. As well as helping you to lose weight it can also help with all cardiovascular outcomes. Therefore, semaglutide can help with weight related conditions such as high blood pressure and heart disease.(2)

What is Liraglutide?

Liraglutude known under the trade name Victoza can be used for diabetes to improve blood sugar control.(3)

Liraglutide, used for weight loss, is prescribed as Saxenda and is injected daily using a starting dose of 0.6mg and increased weekly by 0.6mg to the maximum therapeutic dose of 3.0mg.(4)

UK weight loss injections, how does it work?

Weight loss injections work by mimicking a hormone called GLP1, which is typically released when a person feels full after a large meal. They act on the receptors in the brain that control your appetite causing you to feel fuller and less hungry resulting in eating less food and reducing calorie intake. They also delay gastric emptying resulting in you feeling fuller for longer.

How long does one pen last?

The starting dose of Saxenda is 0.6mg and your first pen should last 17 days if you follow the recommended dosage schedule. The dosage is increased each week until you reach the maximum dose of 3.0mg when one pen will last 6 days.

The starting dose of Wegovy is 0.25mg and is used weekly for one month. This dosage is increased per month and the maximum dose of 2.4mg will be reached at the start of month 5. This maintenance dosage is then used until you are no longer overweight. Each Wegovy pen has 4 doses in it and so lasts for a month. Wegovy will be available in the UK early 2023.

Where to buy needles?

Buy Saxenda online From only £50 per pen When an order for Saxenda is placed with us at WebMed pharmacy your needles are included at no added cost. Some online pharmacies do not include needles with an order of Saxenda and you can buy these separately when you order your Saxenda but at an  extra cost.

References

1) Ozempic  https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9748/smpc (cited November 2022)

2) Wegovy  https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/13799/smpc (cited November 2022)

3) Victoza  https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6585  (cited November 2022)

4) Saxenda https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2313  (cited November 2022)

Author: Hayley Pritchard
Medically reviewed by: Superintendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons)MRPharmS 17/11/2022