How To Get Ozempic In The UK

Ozempic is a subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injection administered weekly. It’s a brand name you may be familiar with if you’ve researched weight loss injections; however, it isn’t licensed or recommended for this purpose.

That said, Ozempic is licensed for other conditions, so you may be wondering how to obtain the medication for its intended use. Join us as we explore how to get Ozempic in the UK, what it’s approved to treat, and your options for tackling obesity. Let’s get started. 

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Is Ozempic Semaglutide?

Yes, Ozempic is a brand name for the active ingredient semaglutide. It is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in the UK and is classified as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Semaglutide is also available in the weight loss injection Wegovy.

Ozempic works by mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone in the following ways:

• Sending signals to the brain telling you that you are full
• Reducing your calorie intake
• Stimulating the pancreas to release insulin, a hormone essential for blood sugar regulation

Can You Get Ozempic in the UK? 

Yes, Ozempic is available in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Although it was previously prescribed “off-label” for weight loss, Wegovy is the preferred alternative for this purpose. That’s because it has been tested and developed for this purpose, and off-label prescribing can lead to drug shortages for those who need Ozempic the most.

Like all GLP-1 medications, Ozempic is a prescription-only medication (POM), which means you must have a registered clinician’s approval to get it. You cannot buy it over the counter without a prescription. 

Where Can I Get Ozempic?

Ozempic is available on the NHS for the management of type 2 diabetes with a prescription from a registered clinician. To be eligible for Ozempic on the NHS, you must have uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. It can be prescribed alongside a diet and exercise plan if:

• Metformin is not suitable for you
• You have not responded to other diabetes medications; it can be given alongside other antidiabetic drugs

Ozempic is also available on a private prescription from private clinics and online pharmacies. 

Why Get an Ozempic Private Prescription in the UK

Some people may choose to get Ozempic privately because it offers faster access. Private prescriptions mean you can bypass the NHS waiting lists and the strict NHS eligibility criteria, since private prescriptions require you to meet less stringent criteria.

At Prescription Doctor, we do not offer Ozempic for weight loss. Instead, our clinicians can provide Wegovy, which contains the same active ingredient but is available in higher doses that have been specifically tested and approved for weight management.

How to Get Ozempic for Weight Loss in the UK

It’s not possible to get Ozempic for weight loss in the UK, as it’s only approved for treating people with type 2 diabetes. It’s important that you only use a medication for the purpose it has been licensed for because it has been rigorously tested for safety, quality, and effectiveness for a specific condition at certain dosages and for certain groups. If you take it for an off-label or any other purpose, there is an increased risk of side effects, reduced effectiveness, and potential long-term complications.

If you are looking to try semaglutide for weight loss, Wegovy is a better option. Wegovy is similar to Ozempic, sharing the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but it has a higher maximum maintenance dose and is specifically approved for weight loss in the UK.

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Is Ozempic the Same as Wegovy?

Ozempic and Wegovy are almost the same medication because they contain the same active ingredient, but there are a few differences, which the table below will outline: 

What Weight Loss Alternatives are Available?

While Wegovy is effective for weight loss, it may not be suitable for everyone. If semaglutide isn’t right for you, there are several other medications that may better align with your circumstances.

• Mounjaro: A weekly weight loss injection that contains the active ingredient tirzepatide. After 72 weeks at the highest maintenance dose, Mounjaro can help you lose up to 22.5% of your starting body weight. 
• Nevolat: A daily weight loss injection that contains liraglutide. Nevolat can help you lose 8% of your starting body weight after 56 weeks. 
• Xenical: A branded prescription-only weight loss tablet that contains the active ingredient orlistat. Xenical works by preventing up to 30% of dietary fat from being absorbed in meals. Also available in its generic form. 
• Mysimba: Originally licensed for addiction, Mysimba contains the dual ingredients naltrexone and bupropion. It works by acting on the brain areas responsible for appetite regulation and reward.
• Alli: An over-the-counter weight loss pill that contains orlistat as its active ingredient. Alli prevents up to 25% of dietary fat from being absorbed when eating.

Please note that weight loss treatments are not a magic solution and are only effective when used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise. 

How to Get Ozempic in the UK: Frequently Asked Questions

With several GLP-1 medications available in the UK, it can be difficult to determine which is most suitable for you and how to obtain them. Here, we address common questions about obtaining Ozempic, its legality, and whether a prescription is required.

How to Get Prescribed Ozempic?

You can get prescribed Ozempic in the UK solely for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. If you do not have this condition, a doctor cannot prescribe Ozempic, as current guidelines have not licensed the medication for any other purpose.

If you’re looking to get Ozempic for weight loss, you may be eligible for Wegovy instead. This is an approved weight loss treatment that also contains semaglutide and is more effective for obesity. 

Is Ozempic Legal in the UK?

Yes, Ozempic is legal in the UK, but it is a prescription-only medication, so you must have a clinician’s approval to obtain it. Ozempic is also only licensed for type 2 diabetes. 

What is Ozempic Called in the UK?

Ozempic is called Ozempic in the UK; it is a brand name for semaglutide and is licensed only for type 2 diabetes. An alternative to semaglutide, Wegovy, is available and recommended for weight loss.  

Can You Get Ozempic Over the Counter in the UK?

No, Ozempic is a prescription-only medication and cannot be bought over the counter. You must get a prescription from a registered clinician, such as a doctor or pharmacist, after they have determined if it is safe and suitable for you.

Getting Ozempic without a prescription is illegal and comes with risks. A clinician must assess whether it is safe for you and monitor your body's response.

Reliable Support At Every Step

Losing weight is a highly personal journey, and no two people’s stories are the same. Because of this, you’re likely to appreciate a more tailored consultation service that’s designed to satisfy your unique requirements. This is where Prescription Doctor comes in.

We begin by matching you with the most appropriate medication for your circumstances. Simply complete our brief online questionnaire, and our experienced clinicians will review your information to determine whether your chosen treatment is suitable. If not, an alternative solution may be recommended.

Once your treatment schedule begins, we’ll regularly check in with you to monitor your progress and ensure everything is working as expected. Our clinicians are also available to answer any questions you may have about your medication or weight loss results. Whatever you need, you can rely on us to deliver.

Ready to take the first steps of your journey? Begin a consultation with Prescription Doctor today. 

Authored By

Leanne Edermaniger

Medical Content Writer

Leanne is a science and health content writer focusing on human health and biology while utilising her solid academic background.

Published on: 12/02/2025 Re-Published on: 06/02/2026

Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Reviewed on: 06/02/2026