Wegovy® 7.2 mg Dose: Benefits, Results, Side Effects & Eligibility
Wegovy 7.2 mg is the highest-strength dose of semaglutide currently available for medical weight loss in the UK. Designed for adults who need additional support beyond standard doses, it can help deliver greater, more sustained weight-loss results when used alongside lifestyle changes.
This guide explains how Wegovy 7.2 mg works, who it’s for, expected results, side effects, and whether it may be right for you.
What Is Wegovy 7.2 mg?
Wegovy is a once-weekly injectable medication containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and calorie intake.
The 7.2 mg dose is a higher maintenance option introduced for people who:
Have not reached desired weight-loss results on 2.4 mg
Experience weight-loss plateaus
Have a higher starting BMI
It builds on the same proven mechanism as lower doses but offers enhanced clinical efficacy for suitable patients.
How Does Wegovy 7.2 mg Work?
Wegovy mimics the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, which helps to:
Reduce hunger signals in the brain
Increase feelings of fullness
Slow stomach emptying
Reduce cravings and snacking
This leads to lower calorie intake and supports long-term weight management when combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Wegovy 7.2 mg Weight-Loss Results
Clinical Trial Evidence
In phase 3 clinical studies, including the STEP UP trial, patients using Wegovy 7.2 mg achieved:
Average weight loss of around 20–21%
Greater reductions compared with the 2.4 mg dose
Higher likelihood of achieving ≥15% and ≥20% weight loss
These outcomes make Wegovy 7.2 mg one of the most effective prescription weight-loss treatments available in the UK.
Who Is Eligible for Wegovy 7.2 mg?
You may be eligible if you are:
Aged 18 or over
Have a BMI of 30 or higher, or
Have a BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions such as:
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Type 2 diabetes
Sleep apnoea
A clinical assessment is required to confirm suitability.
How Is Wegovy 7.2 mg Taken?
Wegovy is taken as a once-weekly injection.
Patients typically:
Start on a lower dose
Increase gradually over several weeks
Move to a maintenance dose
At present, the 7.2 mg dose may be delivered by combining three 2.4 mg injections once weekly, depending on prescribing guidance, until dedicated pens become widely available.
Wegovy 7.2 mg Side Effects
Side effects are similar to other GLP-1 medications and are usually mild to moderate, especially during dose increases.
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Stomach pain
Fatigue
Headache
Less Common but Noted at Higher Doses
Skin sensitivity or tingling sensations (dysaesthesia)
Increased gastrointestinal discomfort
Most side effects improve as your body adjusts. Medical advice should be sought if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Is Wegovy 7.2 mg Safe?
Wegovy has undergone extensive clinical testing and is approved for weight management in the UK.
It may not be suitable if you:
Have type 1 diabetes
Have a history of pancreatitis
Have certain thyroid conditions
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Your clinician will review your medical history before prescribing.
Do You Need Monitoring on Wegovy 7.2 mg?
Yes. Ongoing clinical support helps ensure:
Safe dose progression
Side effects are managed
Weight loss remains healthy and sustainable
Wegovy works best as part of a clinically supported weight-loss plan that includes nutrition, activity, and behavioural guidance.
Is Wegovy 7.2 mg Right for You?
Wegovy 7.2 mg may be suitable if you:
Have already tried lower doses
Want enhanced weight-loss results
Are committed to long-term lifestyle change
Qualify following a medical assessment
A healthcare professional can help determine the most appropriate dose for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weygovy 7.2mg
How much weight can you lose on Wegovy 7.2 mg?
Clinical trials show average weight loss of around 20–21% of starting body weight.
Is Wegovy 7.2 mg available in the UK?
Yes, it will be available through approved UK providers following a clinical assessment. It is currently being made available through the supply chain and should be available soon
Is Wegovy 7.2 mg better than 2.4 mg?
For some people, yes — especially those who experience weight-loss plateaus or need additional support.
Can Weygovy side effects be worse at 7.2 mg?
Side effects may be slightly more frequent, but most are manageable and temporary. There are patients who may try the higher dose and find the side effects are too significant who will need to return to the lower dose. This is okay and will not lead to long term issues but there may be a period of washout where you will have to manage side effects. As always, drinking plenty of water can help reduce these and over the counter medications can help.
The weight loss achieved in trials of the new dose is equivalent to that achieved by using the highest dose of Mounjaro. But with all medications the aim is to take the minimum dose where you avoid side effects but achieve your weight loss goals.
Remember that changing habits is just as important for long term weight loss so medication is just one of the supporting products and for long term healthy weight maintenance other changes will be required so that when you taper down to a maintenance dose you are able to maintain your weight loss.
Author
Written by Gemma Haggarty
Reviewed by Peter Thnoia, Superintendent Pharmacist - PharmS IP
GPhC Number: 2049701