Wegovy (semaglutide) is similar to Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in that it works on hormone systems within the body. It was first brought out as an injectable pen, like Mounjaro, although there is now an oral version. The medical evidence for that is not quite as strong at the current time.

In clinical trials, patients using these treatments have seen impressive results—on average, about 4% body weight reduction after two months, 8% after four months, and an incredible 15% by the 17-month mark. Recently, the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)—the body responsible for approving medicines for use in the UK—updated its guidance on semaglutide, one of the GLP-1 medications in question. Previously, it was licensed for adults with obesity (BMI over 30, or between 27 and 30 with at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure).

Following new evidence, the MHRA has broadened its recommendation. A large, multinational, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial—one of the most rigorous types of medical research—looked at over 17,600 participants who were randomly given either Wegovy (semaglutide) or a placebo. The findings were striking: Wegovy reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (including heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death) by 20%.

To put it simply, people taking semaglutide experienced a one-fifth reduction in the likelihood of serious heart-related complications. That’s a truly remarkable outcome.

The updated licence now states that adults with a BMI of 27 or higher and an existing cardiovascular condition are eligible for the medication. To check your BMI, you can calculate it yourself using the formula (weight in kilograms divided by height in metres squared) or use the NHS online tool. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, feel free to contact me—I’ll be happy to help.

There is also growing excitement in the heart failure community. Recent studies suggest significant benefits for patients with heart failure who take semaglutide (Wegovy) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro). It may take some time for UK guidelines and licences to reflect this, but I’m confident these changes are on the horizon.