Who is eligible to use Wegovy for weight loss?
Adults in the UK may be eligible for Wegovy (semaglutide) for weight management if they have obesity or are overweight with certain related health conditions, and are assessed as suitable by a prescriber within a structured weight-management programme. In NHS services, eligibility generally follows NICE guidance: adults with at least one weight-related health problem (for example, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes) and a higher BMI threshold, typically BMI ≥35, or in some cases BMI ≥30 where specialist criteria are met. Some ethnic groups have lower BMI cut-offs due to higher health risks at lower BMI; clinicians account for this during assessment. Wegovy should be used alongside lifestyle support (diet, activity and behavioural help), and it is not intended for cosmetic or short-term weight loss.
- Adults with obesity or overweight plus weight-related health problems may be eligible after clinical assessment.
- NHS use usually follows NICE criteria: weight-related condition and higher BMI (commonly BMI ≥35, or sometimes BMI ≥30 if specialist criteria are met).
- Some ethnic groups qualify at slightly lower BMI because health risks occur at lower body weights.
- Wegovy is prescribed within a structured weight-management programme with lifestyle support.
- A healthcare professional must confirm suitability; it is not for cosmetic or short-term weight loss.