A new “triple-strength” version of Wegovy has been approved in the UK, offering a significantly higher dose of the popular weight loss medication.
The UK’s medicines regulator, the MHRA, has authorized a 7.2mg weekly dose of semaglutide, which is three times higher than the previous maximum dose of 2.4mg.
The higher dose is intended for adults living with obesity, particularly those who have not achieved enough weight loss on the standard dose.
Unlike a completely new injection, the current version of the 7.2mg dose is taken as three separate 2.4mg injections on the same day, although a single higher-dose pen is expected to launch later in 2026.
Clinical trial data behind the approval showed promising results, with some participants losing around 20% or more of their body weight, especially those who had previously plateaued on lower doses.
The medication works by mimicking a hormone that helps regulate appetite, making people feel fuller for longer and reducing food cravings.
However, experts have stressed that the stronger dose is not suitable for everyone and should only be used under medical supervision, with gradual dose increases to reduce side effects.
There are also concerns that growing demand for weight loss medications could lead to misuse, with professionals warning patients not to seek higher doses without proper guidance.
For now, the approval marks a major step forward in obesity treatment, giving doctors more flexibility to tailor treatment for patients who need stronger support.
