Wegovy 7.2mg Injection

Wegovy 7.2mg could be the support you need when 2.4 mg is no longer enough.

This upcoming maintenance dose is designed for people who’ve already made progress on Wegovy but still want to lose more, or need help keeping the weight off long term.

While this dose isn’t available in the UK just yet, early results are promising. Here’s what you need to know about how it works, who it’s for, and what to expect when it arrives.

Clinical experts in weight management

MHRA licensed medication

Medical and coaching support included

What is Wegovy 7.2mg?

Wegovy 7.2mg is a new higher-dose version of the weight loss injection Wegovy (semaglutide). It’s designed as a maintenance dose for adults who have already worked up to Wegovy’s current maximum dose of 2.4mg and may need additional support to continue losing weight or to maintain their weight loss. 

The 7.2mg dose is under regulatory review and not yet licensed for use in the UK or anywhere. As of now, 2.4mg once weekly is the highest approved dose of Wegovy for weight management.

tip

“This new dose will only be an option if you’ve already been on Wegovy and tolerated the lower doses. You will not start treatment at 7.2mg if you’ve never used Wegovy before – instead, you’d begin at the lowest dose and titrate up gradually through the standard doses (0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 1.7mg, then 2.4mg) over several months.”

– Laura

Why introduce a 7.2mg dose?

Why a higher dose now? Research has shown that some patients on the 2.4mg dose of Wegovy eventually plateau in their weight loss or still have further weight loss goals.

A 7.2mg dose aims to provide an extra push for those who need it. In clinical trials, the higher dose led to significantly greater weight loss compared to the standard dose.

For example, in the Phase 3 STEP UP trial, adults with obesity who took semaglutide 7.2mg weekly lost about 20.7% of their body weight on average, versus about 17.5% for those on the 2.4mg dose (over ~72 weeks of treatment)¹.

Notably, 33% of patients on 7.2mg achieved more than 25% body weight reduction, roughly double the proportion of people achieving that on 2.4mg¹. In other words, the higher dose helped more people reach levels of weight loss that begin to approach what we traditionally see with bariatric surgery.

tip

“The purpose of Wegovy 7.2mg is to serve as a maintenance or escalation option for those who have done well on Wegovy but could benefit from further weight reduction. This might include people who lost weight on 2.4mg but still have a high BMI or weight-related health issues and those who started to plateau.”

– Laura

Can I regain weight after Wegovy?

When Wegovy treatment is stopped, weight regain can occur.

In one study, patients who discontinued semaglutide after 68 weeks regained about two-thirds of the weight they had lost within the next year².

This underscores why a maintenance strategy is needed: obesity is a long-term condition, and for some people continuing therapy (at an effective dose) may be required to maintain improvements in weight and health alongside new healthy habits. Wegovy 7.2mg may play a role in that long-term maintenance for suitable patients.

tip

“Medication can help you lose weight, but lasting results come from the habits you build while you’re on treatment.

During your journey, we focus on helping you strengthen your relationship with food, movement, sleep, stress, and daily routines.

These changes matter just as much as the medication itself. When members develop these foundations early, they’re far more likely to maintain their progress long-term, whether they stay on treatment or eventually taper off.”

– Laura

How does Wegovy 7.2mg work in a treatment plan?

Wegovy 7.2mg works the same way as lower doses of semaglutide, by activating GLP-1 receptors to curb appetite, reduce hunger, and help control blood sugar.

Patients feel fuller sooner and for longer, which makes it easier to eat fewer calories. The difference is that the higher dose provides a stronger effect, which can result in greater weight loss for those who need it.

According to trial data, 9 out of 10 patients on 7.2mg lost more than 5% of their body weight, and over half lost more than 20%³. These outcomes indicate a powerful effect on appetite and metabolism.

If approved, it will likely be prescribed only for patients who have shown they tolerate 2.4mg well without significant side effects.

tip

“Wegovy 7.2mg would be used after completing the standard titration schedule for Wegovy. The typical Wegovy plan starts at 0.25mg weekly and gradually increases over 16+ weeks to 2.4mg weekly.”

– Laura

Will I experience side effects on 7.2mg?

GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) that signals the brain to reduce appetite and slows down digestion, which is why Wegovy needs to be increased gradually. At 7.2mg, those effects are stronger.

Patients can expect similar types of side effects as with lower doses, mainly gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, upset stomach, or diarrhoea, which tend to occur as the dose increases.

In trials, the overall safety profile of 7.2mg was similar to 2.4mg, with mostly mild-to-moderate GI symptoms being the most common side effects.

  • Slightly more patients on 7.2mg experienced nausea or digestive issues (around 70.8% on 7.2mg vs 61.2% on 2.4mg had some GI side effect)⁴.
  • Serious adverse events were nearly the same for 7.2mg as 2.4mg⁴.

One other side effect noted was dysaesthesia (tingling or change in sensation) in about 23% of patients on 7.2mg, compared to 6% on the lower dose⁵. Importantly, most of these cases were mild and resolved while patients continued treatment. This suggests that although you might feel side effects a bit more strongly at first, they often subside with time as your body adjusts – just as with the lower doses.

tip

“If you and your clinician decide to use the 7.2mg dose once it becomes available, you will continue to receive support and monitoring. Your health coach will monitor your progress, reassuring you and helping manage any side effects or challenges. The goal of the higher dose isn’t a quick fix, but to support your ongoing weight management plan (diet, activity, behavioural changes) for better long term results.”

– Laura

When will Wegovy 7.2mg be available in the UK?

Many members are curious when they can access this higher dose in the UK. As of December 4 2025, Wegovy 7.2mg is not yet approved in the UK.

Novo Nordisk (the manufacturer) has submitted an application to regulatory authorities, and the review is in progress. In July 2025, the company filed for approval with the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and by regulators in the UK and other countries. Regulatory approval involves evaluation by the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and guidance from NICE on cost-effectiveness. These processes take time – typically several months or more. After any approval, there may be additional time needed for NHS implementation and supply to ramp up.

Some UK obesity clinics and analysts expect Wegovy 7.2mg to become available privately in early to mid-2026. The exact timing will depend on regulatory approvals and supply, so this remains an estimate rather than a guarantee.

tip

“Until it’s available, the highest Wegovy dose remains 2.4mg weekly. If you’re on Wegovy currently, continue with your prescribed dose and healthy lifestyle changes. Your provider should update you when the 7.2mg option becomes accessible.

At Medicspot, we’ll verify your medical history using your NHS Summary Care Record (SCR), and ensure you meet the criteria once it launches. It’s worth noting that initially, supply might be limited.”

– Laura

Expected outcomes and benefits of 7.2mg

For members who qualify, Wegovy 7.2mg offers the promise of greater weight loss and possibly improved health outcomes.

In clinical trials, the higher dose helped a greater proportion of people achieve substantial weight loss milestones.

9 out of 10 patients on 7.2mg lost at least 5% of their weight, and over 70% lost more than 15% body weight, indicating that most patients derive significant benefit³.

These outcomes can translate to meaningful health improvements. Weight loss is associated with improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar control, and reductions in risk for conditions like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and joint pain.

The fact that Wegovy 7.2mg can push the weight loss average above 20% means it might help certain individuals reach health goals that were out of reach with the 2.4mg dose alone. For example, more patients may keep their blood sugar low and prevent pre diabetes becoming diabetes or reduce further cardiovascular risk factors on the higher dose.

tip

“Remember, individual results will vary. Not everyone will lose 20% of their weight, and not everyone needs the higher dose to succeed. The important thing is continuing to build healthy lifestyle habits that support your progress.”

– Laura

UK pricing and access considerations

Many people ask us what the cost of Wegovy 7.2mg will be in the UK. As of now, the price for this higher dose has not been announced.

In private UK clinics, the 2.4mg dose of Wegovy typically costs in the region of £200–£300 per month, including service fees.

The 7.2mg dose contains three times more active ingredient, so it is likely to be more expensive, but official UK pricing has not yet been announced. We will know more about the cost of Wegov 7.2mg once the product is closer to launch.

For NHS patients, what matters is whether NICE finds the 7.2mg dose to be good value for money in addition to the 2.4mg dose. If NICE extends its recommendation to include 7.2mg, then the medication would be available on the NHS with the standard prescription charge, or free for those who are exempt. It will probably only be available at specialist weight loss services just like lower doses currently are. However, given the higher cost, the NHS might introduce additional criteria (for example, requiring a certain amount of weight loss on 2.4mg first, or using 7.2mg only in specialist obesity clinics).

Medicspot’s support and supervision

Whether you continue on the 2.4mg dose or step up to 7.2mg in the future, Medicspot provides clinically supervised care throughout your weight loss journey.

Our service is designed to ensure that treatment with Wegovy is safe, appropriate, and effective for you as an individual. Here’s what you can expect from our care:

  • Clinical review – A clinician reviews each case for appropriateness. Before prescribing Wegovy, especially at a high dose like 7.2mg, we will thoroughly evaluate your medical history, current medications, and weight management needs. We’ll make sure the treatment is suitable and that there are no contraindications.
  • Safety checks – We’ll verify your medical history using your NHS Summary Care Record (SCR). This means we look at your NHS medication record (with permission) to confirm details like past medications or conditions. By doing so, we catch any potential issues. Safety is important, especially when considering a higher dose.
  • Ongoing monitoring – You’ll have a dedicated health coach (like Laura) who will check in regularly. They will help track your weight changes, discuss any side effects, and provide encouragement for the lifestyle changes that accompany the injections.
  • Comprehensive support – We believe successful weight loss is about more than just a jab – it’s about building healthier habits. Our Wegovy programme combines medication with behavioural support, nutrition advice, and regular follow-ups. We help you set realistic goals and overcome plateaus.
  • 12 months aftercare – Even after you reach your goal weight or complete treatment, we continue to support you for a full year. This includes check-ins, guidance on tapering or maintaining your dose, and help strengthening the lifestyle habits that keep the weight off long term.
tip

“New treatments like Wegovy 7.2mg can be exciting but also raise questions. Rest assured, if this dose is right for you, we’ll support you at every step – from medical oversight to lifestyle coaching – so you feel safe and confident as you progress.”

– Laura

Final thoughts

Wegovy 7.2mg may help patients who need an extra boost beyond the current doses.

With careful use, medical supervision, and holistic support, it could enable more people in the UK to achieve life-changing weight loss and health benefits.

Always consult with a healthcare professional to see if it’s appropriate for your situation, and remember that it should be used as part of a broader plan that includes diet, exercise, and behavioural changes.

About the authors

Dr Jackir Hussain is a GP with over 14 years of experience, having earned his medical degree from the University of Manchester. He has worked across a wide range of primary care settings, including NHS surgeries, unscheduled care services, homeless shelters, and telemedicine. Dr Hussain is passionate about delivering accessible, patient-centred care and helping individuals take practical steps toward improving their health. In his role at Medicspot, he brings a wealth of frontline experience and a calm, compassionate approach to supporting patients on their weight management journey.

Dr Abby Hyams grew up in Manchester and completed her medical training in Bristol. She has been a GP for 19 years, spending many of those as a partner in an NHS practice in Hemel Hempstead. Dr Hyams loves being a GP because of the wide spectrum of people she encounters every day and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their lives. She has a particular passion for supporting patients with weight loss and promoting positive behaviour change, helping individuals build sustainable habits that improve their long-term health and wellbeing.

Cited sources

¹ Novo Nordisk. Semaglutide 7.2 mg s.c. achieved 20.7% weight loss in the STEP UP obesity trial and 18.7% regardless of treatment adherence. GlobeNewswire. Published January 17, 2025. Last accessed December 2025. [https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/17/3011376/0/en/Novo-Nordisk-A-S-Semaglutide-7-2-mg-s-c-achieved-20-7-weight-loss-in-the-STEP-UP-obesity-trial-and-18-7-regardless-of-treatment-adherence.html]

² Wilding, J.P.H. et al. Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: The STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism 24(8):1553–1564 (2022). Last accessed December 2025. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35441470/]

³ Drugs.com. Higher dose of Wegovy® (semaglutide 7.2 mg) provided average weight loss of 21% in obesity, with one-third achieving ≥25% or more. Published January 17, 2025. Last accessed December 2025. [https://www.drugs.com/clinical_trials/higher-wegovy-provided-average-weight-loss-21-obesity-third-achieving-25-more-22079.html]

⁴ Wharton, S, et al. (2025). Once-weekly semaglutide 7.2 mg in adults with obesity: the randomised, controlled, phase 3b STEP UP trial. 1966-LB poster. American Diabetes Association (ADA) 85th Scientific Sessions, Chicago, US, June 20 – 23, 2025.17.

Wharton S., Lingvay I., Hjelmesæth J., et al. Once-weekly semaglutide 7.2 mg in adults with obesity (STEP UP): a randomised, controlled, phase 3b trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. 2025. PMID: 40961952. Last accessed December 2025. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40961952/]

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

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