Semaglutide: a new drug for the treatment of obesity

Review found although use of semaglutide can result in substantial weight loss, impact of weight regain on stopping is of concern, and more data on safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness, including longer-term trials are needed before it can be recommended for routine use.

SPS commentary:

NICE guidance recommends semaglutide (Wegovy) as an option for weight management, including weight loss and weight maintenance, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity in adults, only if:

  • it is used for a maximum of 2 years, and within a specialist weight management service providing multidisciplinary management of overweight or obesity (including but not limited to tiers 3 and 4), and
  • they have at least 1 weight-related comorbidity and:
  • a body mass index (BMI) of at least 35.0 kg/m2, or
  • a BMI of 30.0 kg/m2 to 34.9 kg/m2 and meet the criteria for referral to specialist weight management services in NICE's guideline on obesity: identification, assessment and management.

Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin

Resource links:

NICE guidance