Are Weight Loss Injections Worth the Cost? A Guide for UK Patients

In recent years, weight loss injections have gained huge popularity among people looking for medical help to shed excess weight. 

With celebrity endorsements, NHS trials, and widespread discussion on social media, they’re often seen as a “miracle” solution. 

But what exactly are these injections, and how much do they really cost?

What Are Weight Loss Injections?

Weight loss injections are prescription medications delivered via injection (usually into the abdomen or thigh) that help reduce appetite, regulate blood sugar, or slow digestion. The most commonly used are:

Saxenda (liraglutide) – a daily injection

Wegovy (semaglutide) – a weekly injection

Ozempic (semaglutide) – primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes, but used off-label for weight loss

These medications are part of a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a hormone that helps control blood sugar and appetite.

Who Can Get Them?

They’re not suitable for everyone. In the UK, weight loss injections are typically prescribed to:

People with a BMI over 30, or

Those with a BMI over 27 who also have weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.

Some NHS patients may qualify through specialist weight management services, though availability is limited and subject to strict criteria.

How Effective Are They?

Clinical trials have shown that these injections can help people lose up to 15% of their body weight over several months, especially when combined with diet, exercise, and behavioural support.

How Much Do They Cost in the UK?

Here’s a rough guide to current private prices as of mid-2025:

Saxenda

Pack of 5 pens: £60–£75 per pen

Monthly cost: £240–£375

Requires daily injection

Wegovy

Weekly injection

Monthly cost: £195–£300 depending on dose

Currently available privately in the UK and increasingly prescribed on the NHS for eligible patients

Ozempic (off-label use)

Weekly injection

Monthly cost: £150–£250

In short supply due to high demand

Are There Any Side Effects?

Yes. Common side effects include:

Nausea or vomiting

Diarrhoea or constipation

Headaches

Low appetite

Serious side effects are rare but include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or thyroid tumours (in animal studies).

Are They Right for You?

Weight loss injections can be a powerful tool, but they’re not a quick fix. They work best when part of a comprehensive lifestyle change, supported by dietitians, GPs, or weight management coaches.

Before starting any injection, speak with your GP, pharmacist, or private weight loss clinic. Never purchase these medications from unregulated online vendors – there have been counterfeit and dangerous versions reported in the UK.

Interested in Starting?

Some of the UK’s most well-known providers include:

Superdrug Online Doctor

Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor

The Slimming Clinic

NHS Tier 3 Weight Management Services (eligibility applies)

If you’re thinking about using weight loss injections, weigh up the costs, benefits, and risks. They can be an excellent support for the right candidate – but make sure you’re doing it safely and sustainably.

Weight loss injections. Do they work? How much are they?

In recent years, weight loss injections have emerged as a significant tool in combating obesity in the UK. 

Medications like Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro have gained attention for their effectiveness in aiding weight reduction when combined with lifestyle changes. 

This article explores the companies offering these treatments, their efficacy, safety profiles, and associated costs.​

Companies Offering Weight Loss Injections in the UK

Several pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers offer weight loss injections:​

Wegovy (Semaglutide): Manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Wegovy has been approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for use within the NHS. It is also available through private healthcare providers.​

Saxenda (Liraglutide): Also produced by Novo Nordisk, Saxenda is accessible via the NHS for individuals meeting specific criteria and can be obtained privately.​

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): Developed by Eli Lilly, Mounjaro is available through private clinics and online pharmacies in the UK.​

Effectiveness of Weight Loss Injections

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of these medications:​

Wegovy: In a 68-week trial, participants experienced an average weight loss of 15.8% of their initial body weight. ​

Saxenda: The same study reported a mean weight loss of 6.4% over 68 weeks. ​

Mounjaro: Clinical trials have shown weight reductions ranging from 15% to 20% of initial body weight. ​

Safety and Side Effects

While effective, these injections may cause side effects, typically mild but diminishing over time:​

Common Side Effects: Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, headache, fatigue, dizziness, stomach pain, and upset stomach. ​

Serious Risks: Rare but severe side effects can include pancreatitis. Users are advised to consult healthcare professionals for personalised advice and monitoring. ​

Cost of Weight Loss Injections

The cost varies depending on the medication and provider:​

thedietologist.co.uk

Wegovy: NICE lists prices ranging from £124.54 to £175.80 per pack, depending on the dosage. ​

Saxenda: Approximately £196.20 for a pack of five 3ml pens. ​

Mounjaro: Prices start from £188.99 per pen. ​

These treatments may be available on the NHS for individuals meeting specific criteria; otherwise, they can be accessed through private healthcare channels.​

However, some local NHS Trusts routinely decline to prescribe weight loss injections on cost grounds, often blaming dubious 'clinical reasons.'

Conclusion

Weight loss injections like Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro offer promising avenues for individuals struggling with obesity. While they have shown significant effectiveness, it is crucial to consider potential side effects and consult healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Costs can be substantial, but eligibility for NHS coverage may alleviate financial burdens for some patients.