Ozempic vs Wegovy: What’s the Difference?

At Junction Pharmacy in London, we’re seeing more and more patients enquire about semaglutide, a medication that’s changed the landscape of both type 2 diabetes management and weight loss support. But there’s still a great deal of confusion around the two main brand names associated with semaglutide—Ozempic and Wegovy.

While they are both based on the same active ingredient, their intended uses, dosages, and availability differ. In this post, we’ll clarify the differences between the two, explore how they’re prescribed on the NHS and privately, and explain why private access may lead to faster and more tailored results.

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a medication that mimics a hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar, reduces appetite, and slows down gastric emptying, helping you feel fuller for longer.

Semaglutide has proven effective in managing type 2 diabetes and, more recently, in supporting weight loss in people with obesity or weight-related health issues.

Ozempic: Designed for Diabetes

Ozempic was the first semaglutide-based medicine approved in the UK and is licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It comes in a weekly injection, usually starting at 0.25mg and increasing up to 1mg or 2mg as needed.

While many people using Ozempic experience weight loss, it is not licensed in the UK specifically for obesity treatment. However, because of its weight-related benefits, some people seek it privately when they’re unable to access Wegovy.

On the Ozempic NHS pathway, it is only available to people managing diabetes, typically after trying other treatments such as metformin.

Wegovy: Designed for Weight Loss

Wegovy is the version of semaglutide that is licensed specifically for weight management. Like Ozempic, it is a once-weekly injection, but the dosage is higher—starting at 0.25mg and gradually increasing to 2.4mg.

Wegovy was developed for people who are living with obesity (BMI ≥30) or those who are overweight (BMI ≥27) with weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure or sleep apnoea.

Its clinical trials showed significant weight loss results, particularly when combined with lifestyle support, which is why it’s become a widely sought-after solution.

Ozempic NHS vs Private Access: What’s the Reality?

If you’re using Ozempic through the NHS, you’ll only be prescribed it for type 2 diabetes. Its use for weight loss outside of a diabetes diagnosis is not approved under current NHS guidelines.

Wegovy, meanwhile, has been approved for NHS use—but access is limited. It’s being rolled out gradually under specialist weight management services, meaning patients typically need to be referred to a Tier 3 or Tier 4 obesity clinic, a process that can take many months, if not longer.

While we fully support the NHS and the incredible work it does, the availability of semaglutide for weight loss through the NHS is very restricted. That’s why many individuals turn to private pharmacies and clinics to begin their weight loss journey sooner.

Private Access: Quicker Support, Greater Success

At Junction Pharmacy, we offer private consultations for patients who are seeking weight loss support with semaglutide. Through our service, eligible patients can be prescribed Wegovy (and in some cases, Ozempic for weight loss use off-label, where clinically appropriate) with ongoing professional supervision.

Here’s how private access can benefit you:

Faster access: No waiting lists or referrals—appointments are available directly through our pharmacy team.

Tailored support: We provide nutritional guidance, progress check-ins, and clinical oversight to maximise your success.

Flexibility: Private treatment allows for a plan that fits around your lifestyle and personal goals.

We believe that combining the medication with structured lifestyle changes—including diet, exercise, and behavioural support—gives you the best chance of long-term success. Our pharmacy is here to guide you every step of the way.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

• –> If you have type 2 diabetes, Ozempic may be prescribed via your GP or diabetes specialist.

• –> If you’re seeking support with weight loss, Wegovy is the medication designed for you.

• –> If NHS routes are too slow or not currently available, private access through Junction Pharmacy can help you get started sooner, with personalised care and expert oversight.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’ve tried dieting on your own or have struggled with long NHS waiting times, we’re here to help. Junction Pharmacy in London provides safe, regulated access to semaglutide-based treatment options with a focus on sustainable weight loss and ongoing support.

Contact us and to schedule your consultation today and see if you’re eligible for Wegovy or Ozempic. Let’s start your journey together—on your terms, at your pace.

This blog was written on behalf of Junction Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.