Health And Wellbeing For The Over 50s

Compare the Cost of Weight Loss Injections in 2025

 

cost of weight loss injections

The cost of weight loss injections isn’t just a financial decision—it’s an emotional one. For so many of us, weight has never just been about numbers on a scale. It’s about energy lost to exhaustion, self-confidence chipped away over years, and health warnings we’re tired of hearing but too afraid to face.

It’s about sitting at yet another family dinner, smiling while quietly battling food guilt. After years of yo-yo diets, calorie counting, and feeling like your body is working against you, the idea of a medical treatment that could actually help feels like hope.

But hope comes with questions—how much does it cost? Will it really work for me? What are the options?

In this guide, we dive into the cost of weight loss injections in the UK, compare the prices from different providers and look at the different features of each so you can decide if it’s the right path for you.

KEY TAKEAWAY

The cost of weight loss injections ranges between £179 and £375 per month depending on the strength of the dose, the specific medication, and the particular private provider.

 

Compare the Cost of Weight Loss Injections

Injection Active Ingredient Available for Weight Loss Frequency Required Expected Weight Loss Private Cost (Monthly)
Wegovy Semaglutide Yes Once weekly Up to 15-17% over 68 weeks £179-£325
Mounjaro/Zepbound Tirzepatide Yes Once weekly Up to 22% over 72 weeks £199-£375
Ozempic Semaglutide Yes (off-label) Once weekly Up to 10-12% over 52 weeks £195-£315
Rybelsus Oral Semaglutide Yes Once daily (oral tablet) Up to 7-10% over 52 weeks £225-£340
Saxenda Liraglutide Yes Once daily Up to 8% over 56 weeks £225-£325

Prices correct as of August 2025

Can I Get Weight Loss Injections on the NHS?

Yes, but access to weight loss injections on the NHS is still extremely limited — and for many, frustratingly out of reach. Currently, medications like Wegovy (semaglutide) are approved for use through NHS weight management services in the UK, but they’re only offered to people who meet strict eligibility criteria.

To qualify, you typically need a BMI of 35 or above (or sometimes 30 if you have weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure), and you must be referred by a specialist — often after completing a structured lifestyle program.

Even then, waiting lists can be long and regional availability varies. It’s heartbreaking for those who feel ready to change now, only to be met with delays or refusals.

While the NHS is making progress, many people are turning to private clinics simply because they can’t afford to wait any longer — for their health, confidence, or quality of life.

Supply chain issues that affected availability in previous years have largely resolved by 2025, though periodic shortages may still occur due to high demand.

How much do Weight Loss Injections Cost Privately and What Affects the Cost?

For those who don’t qualify for NHS treatment or simply can’t face the long waiting lists, private clinics offer a more immediate path to accessing weight loss injections. While this route offers convenience and choice, it also comes at a financial cost — and the prices can vary widely.

Private providers across the UK, including high-street chains like Boots, Superdrug, LloydsPharmacy, as well as specialist weight-loss clinics, now offer access to injections like Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide). But costs range anywhere from £150 to over £300 per month, depending on several factors:

  • Dosage strength: The cost usually increases as your dose increases over time (which is typical with drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide).

  • The specific drug used: Newer or more powerful medications (like tirzepatide) often come at a premium compared to older options.

  • Clinic type: Online pharmacies may be cheaper than in-person consultations at private weight-loss clinics, but they may also offer less support or monitoring.

  • Included services: Some providers include extras like dietician access, digital health coaching, or follow-up consultations — which can add value but also increase the price.

  • Prescription fees and delivery: Some clinics add admin or prescription fees, while others bundle everything into a single monthly cost.

Ultimately, the private route offers freedom — but it requires careful budgeting and research. For many, the investment feels worth it, especially when they’ve already tried every other option. Still, it’s important to remember that no injection is a magic solution.

These medications work best when paired with long-term lifestyle changes, and having expert support (whether through a GP, clinic, or coach) can make all the difference in sustaining results.

Here are some sample costs for Wegovy from different UK providers:

Compare the Price of Wegovy

Provider 0.25 mg/week 1.7 mg/week 2.4 mg/week
Boots Online Doctor £199 £249 £299
LloydsPharmacy £149–£179 £224 £269
Superdrug Online Doctor £195 £245 £295
Oxford Online Pharmacy £139–£148 £198–£219 £249
Bolt Pharmacy From £99 Varies by dose £239
Varies: Pharmacy2U, Simple Online, Numan, UK Meds £149–£169 ~£225 £249–£299

Prices correct as of August 2025. Subject to change depending on stock availability, region, and prescription review.

If you’re exploring Mounjaro as an option to support your weight loss journey, you’re not alone. It’s become an increasingly popular alternative to Wegovy, particularly for those seeking stronger or faster appetite control. But as with all treatments, the cost of Mounjaro in the UK can be a big factor when deciding what’s right for you.

Prices vary not just by provider but also by the dosage your body needs as you move through your plan. To help you get a clearer picture, here are some sample costs for Mounjaro from different UK providers:

Compare the Price of Mounjaro

Provider 2.5 mg/week 5 mg/week 7.5 mg/week 10 mg/week 12.5 mg or 15 mg/week
Asda Online Doctor £128.98 £138.98 £148.98 £158.98 £198.98
Oxford Online Pharmacy £119.99 £138.97 £169.98 £169.98 £204.94
Simple Online Pharmacy £128.98 £139.00 £169.99 £189.99 £204.95
Phlo Clinic £109* £159
Other UK UK‑regulated clinics (e.g. Numan, Pharmacy2U) £120–£169 £209–£229 £229 £229–£249 £299

*Phlo Clinic offers an introductory rate of £109 for the first month; subsequent pricing applies as shown. Prices are correct as of August 2025 and sourced from providers including Asda, Oxford Online Pharmacy, Simple, Phlo Clinic, Numan, and Pharmacy2U. They may vary over time based on dose, stock, and support services. Provider data from UK public listings.

Mounjaro vs Wegovy Costs and Considerations

When comparing Mounjaro to Wegovy, it’s important to consider not just cost—but how your body might respond to the different medications.

Wegovy (semaglutide) has been around a little longer, with established NHS support and slightly more consistent pricing across providers.

Mounjaro (tirzepatide), on the other hand, is newer to the UK and can often be more expensive at the higher doses—especially the 10 mg to 15 mg pens, which can easily exceed £200 per month.

However, some users report more significant appetite suppression and better weight loss outcomes on Mounjaro. So if you’re at a weight plateau or haven’t seen results with Wegovy, the extra cost of Mounjaro might be worth it.

That said, both medications are serious commitments, and prices can fluctuate due to availability and pharmacy pricing models—so make sure to compare regularly and speak to a medical professional about what’s best for your body and your budget.

Wegovy vs Mounjaro: Comparison Table (UK, 2025)

Feature Wegovy (Semaglutide) Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
Manufacturer Novo Nordisk Eli Lilly
Approved UK Use Weight loss (NHS + private) NHS + private
How it works GLP-1 receptor agonist (slows digestion, reduces appetite) Dual GIP & GLP-1 receptor agonist (targets appetite and insulin response)
Weekly Dose Range 0.25 mg → 2.4 mg 2.5 mg → 15 mg
Typical Weight Loss ~15% of body weight (68 weeks) ~20%+ of body weight (72 weeks)
Onset of Effects Gradual (1–2 months) Often faster (first few weeks)
Private Monthly Cost (est.) £149–£299 £120–£299+
Availability on NHS Yes (criteria apply) Yes but limited
Common Side Effects Nausea, constipation, fatigue Nausea, diarrhoea, low appetite
Pen Injector Type Single-dose, prefilled Multi-dose (1 pen per 4 weeks)
Storage Fridge (2–8 °C) Fridge (2–8 °C)

Figures based on available data from NHS guidance, clinical trials, and UK private provider listings in August 2025.

Always consult your GP or pharmacist for personal suitability and treatment advice.

Additional Considerations for the Cost of Weight Loss Injections

Long-Term Costs

* The cost of weight loss injections extends beyond the medication itself. Patients must factor in the cost of regular medical consultations, blood tests, and follow-up appointments, which are essential for monitoring progress and managing side effects.
* Long-term use may be necessary to maintain weight loss, adding to the overall cost. Many private providers have now introduced subscription models offering bundled services at discounted rates to make ongoing treatment more affordable. These typically range from £2,000-£4,000 annually, depending on the medication and level of support provided.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

* While the upfront cost of weight loss injections can be high, patients should weigh this against potential long-term savings. Effective weight loss can reduce the risk of obesity-related health conditions, potentially lowering future medical expenses related to diabetes, heart disease, and other complications.
* Recent 2025 economic analyses suggest that for individuals with multiple obesity-related conditions, the five-year financial benefits can outweigh treatment costs by up to 30% when accounting for reduced medication needs and fewer hospitalisations.
* Improved health and well-being can also lead to better quality of life and increased productivity, which can have indirect financial benefits.

Comparing Alternatives

* Patients should compare the cost of weight loss injections with other weight management options, such as diet and exercise programs, weight loss medications, or bariatric surgery. Each option has its own cost implications and effectiveness, and the best choice depends on individual circumstances and health goals.
* Digital health platforms offering virtual support alongside medication have emerged as cost-effective options in 2025, with combined packages starting at £225 per month.

Detailed Insights into Weight Loss Injections

Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Wegovy is specifically approved for weight loss and has shown impressive results, with patients losing up to 15-17% of their body weight. It is administered once weekly, making it convenient for users.

The 2025 formulation offers improved gastrointestinal tolerability compared to earlier versions, with a gradual dose escalation protocol that has reduced discontinuation rates by approximately 15%.

Mounjaro/Zepbound (Tirzepatide)

Originally approved for type 2 diabetes as Mounjaro, this medication is now also marketed as Zepbound specifically for weight management. It has demonstrated the most significant weight loss effects among available options, with patients losing up to 22% of their body weight over 72 weeks.

It is administered once weekly and works by targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, offering a dual mechanism that appears to enhance effectiveness beyond single-target medications.

Ozempic (Semaglutide)

While primarily developed for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is often used off-label for weight loss. It offers weight reduction of up to 10-12% of body weight and is administered once weekly, similar to Wegovy.

By 2025, manufacturing capacity has increased to address previous supply shortages, making it more consistently available for patients. Many clinicians now use it as a first-line option due to its established safety profile and broader insurance coverage.

Rybelsus (Oral Semaglutide)

As the first oral GLP-1 receptor agonist, Rybelsus has gained popularity among patients who prefer not to use injections. While not as effective as injectable options (typically achieving 7-10% weight loss over 52 weeks), its convenience has made it an important addition to the weight management medication landscape.

It requires strict administration guidelines, including taking it on an empty stomach with a small amount of water and waiting 30 minutes before eating.

Saxenda (Liraglutide)

Saxenda is approved for weight loss and requires daily injections. It offers a moderate weight loss of up to 8% of body weight. Its daily administration might be less convenient but can be effective for those who prefer a consistent routine.

While newer weekly options have largely superseded it in popularity, some patients report better tolerability with Saxenda, and it remains an important option for those who experience adverse effects with semaglutide or tirzepatide.

cost of weight loss injections

 

READ MORE: Weight Loss Injections in 2025: Risks, Benefits and the Hope They Offer

Conclusion

Weight loss injections like Wegovy, Mounjaro/Zepbound, Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Saxenda continue to evolve as important tools for managing obesity in 2025. They offer substantial benefits, including effective weight loss, improved cardiovascular health, and better metabolic control.

However, the cost of weight loss injections in the UK remains a significant consideration, with monthly private expenses ranging from £179 to £375. Although the NHS has expanded access, strict eligibility criteria continue to limit availability to those with the highest medical need.

The growing body of scientific evidence now provides more confidence in both the short and medium-term benefits of these medications, though questions about lifelong use remain.

By carefully weighing the pros and cons, including financial considerations, side effects, and expected outcomes, you can make informed decisions about whether weight loss injections are the right choice for your personal weight management journey.

 

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