Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription injection used in the management of type 2 diabetes. Like Wegovy, it belongs to a group of medicines called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). receptor agonists, which work by mimicking a natural hormone in the body known as GLP-1.1
This hormone plays an important role in controlling blood sugar. It helps the pancreas release insulin when glucose levels are high, reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver, and slows down gastric emptying, meaning food stays in the stomach for longer, which promotes a feeling of fullness.1
While its main purpose is to improve blood sugar control, many people also notice appetite reduction and weight loss as an additional effect.1
Ozempic is licensed in the UK, but only as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. That means if you’re looking for it specifically as a weight loss injection, the answer is no, it’s not officially available for that purpose. While Ozempic contains semaglutide (the same active ingredient found in Wegovy), it has not been approved by UK regulators for weight management.2
In January 2024, the department for health and social care along with the NHS issued a national patient safety alert prohibiting the prescribing of Ozempic for weight loss in the UK..For people who want access to semaglutide for weight loss, Wegovy is the only approved and licensed option in the UK.
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Wegovy and Ozempic both contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide. This medicine works by mimicking a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar, slows down digestion, and reduces appetite. That’s why both treatments can lead to weight loss.
The key difference is how they are licensed and used. Wegovy is specifically approved in the UK for weight management in people living with obesity or weight-related health conditions. Ozempic, on the other hand, is only licensed for managing type 2 diabetes, even though weight loss can happen as a secondary effect.2 They also come in different doses, with Wegovy pens designed for gradual dose escalation to support long-term weight loss.
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Ozempic is licensed in the UK as a treatment for adults with type 2 diabetes. It works by mimicking a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1. This hormone is released after eating and plays an important role in controlling blood sugar.1
By activating GLP-1 receptors, Ozempic helps the pancreas release more insulin when glucose levels are high, reduces the amount of sugar the liver releases into the bloodstream, and slows down how quickly food leaves the stomach. Together, these effects improve blood sugar control after meals and between them, while also helping to protect the pancreas over time.1
Although weight loss is not its licensed purpose, many people with diabetes taking Ozempic notice a reduction in body weight. This effect is thought to come from slower gastric emptying, reduced appetite, and overall lower calorie intake.1
Starting a new medication like Ozempic can come with its fair share of questions and concerns, especially when it comes to side effects. Most Ozempic side effects are mild and tend to improve over time, especially as your body becomes used to the treatment. Below is a helpful overview of the most frequently reported side effects:3
| Nausea | Low blood sugar | Constipation |
|---|---|---|
| Vomitting | Vision disturbances | Allergic reactions |
| Diarrhoea | Stomach pain | Gallbladder issues |
No medicine is completely without risks, and Ozempic is no exception. For many people with type 2 diabetes, Ozempic can be a safe and effective option to help manage blood sugar levels and, in some cases, reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke. However, how safe it is for you will depend on your individual health, other conditions you may have, and any other medications you’re taking.
Generally, side effects are mild and improve over time, but more serious risks, though rare, can occur. This is why Ozempic should always be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional who can review your medical history and check that it’s suitable for you.
If you’re unsure, or if you notice any new or worrying symptoms while taking Ozempic, it’s important to speak to your doctor straight away.
1. Papakonstantinou I, Tsioufis K, Katsi V. Spotlight on the mechanism of action of semaglutide. Current issues in molecular biology. 2024;46(12): 14514–14541.
2. GLP-1 medicines for weight loss and diabetes: what you need to know. Gov.uk. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/glp-1-medicines-for-weight-loss-and-diabetes-what-you-need-to-know/glp-1-medicines-for-weight-loss-and-diabetes-what-you-need-to-know [Accessed 22nd August 2025].
3. Ozempic 0.5 mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen. Org.uk. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9750/smpc [Accessed 22nd August 2025].
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