UK Approves First Daily GLP-1 Weight Loss Tablet
On 11 June 2026, the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved a once-daily oral form of semaglutide for weight management. Marketed under the brand name Wegovy, this is the first GLP-1 tablet of its kind to be licensed in the UK and Europe, following approvals in the United States and the United Arab Emirates.
The treatment is approved for adults who meet the same criteria as for injectable weight loss medications:
- A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater (obesity).
- A BMI between 27 and 30 kg/m² (overweight) with at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.
How Oral Semaglutide Works
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in the Wegovy tablet and has been available as a weekly injection in the UK since 2023. It functions by mimicking a natural gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is released after you eat.
By targeting areas of the brain that regulate appetite, semaglutide helps you feel fuller for longer, reduces feelings of hunger, and can lessen food cravings.
Administration and Dosing
Taking the tablet requires a specific routine to ensure proper absorption. It must be taken with a small sip of water on an empty stomach, after fasting for at least eight hours overnight. You must then wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other oral medications.
The dose is increased gradually to help the body adapt:
- Starting Dose: 1.5 mg daily
- Titration: Increases to 4 mg, then 9 mg
- Maintenance Dose: 25 mg daily
Each dose level should be taken for a minimum of one month before escalating to the next.
The OASIS 4 Trial: Clinical Evidence
The MHRA's decision is supported by data from the OASIS 4 clinical trial, a phase 3 study involving 307 adults with obesity or overweight who did not have type 2 diabetes. This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial provided all participants with structured diet and exercise advice, including a target of a 500-calorie daily deficit.
Efficacy Results at 64 Weeks
Researchers analysed the results in two ways to provide a comprehensive picture of the medication's effectiveness.
| Analysis Type | Average Weight Loss (Oral Semaglutide 25 mg) | Average Weight Loss (Placebo) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Analysis (All participants) | ~14% | ~2% |
| On-Treatment Analysis (Completed the trial) | ~17% | ~3% |
Safety and Side Effects
The side effect profile was consistent with injectable GLP-1 medications. Gastrointestinal issues were the most common, though they were typically mild to moderate and tended to decrease over time.
| Side Effect Profile | Oral Semaglutide 25 mg Group | Placebo Group |
|---|---|---|
| Reported GI Issues | 74% | 42% |
| Discontinued Treatment | ~7% | Not specified |
Commonly reported events included nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
Important Information
The Wegovy pill is a prescription-only medication. It is essential to consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine if this treatment is a safe and appropriate option for you.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
References
1. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). First GLP-1 tablet for weight loss approved in the UK. Published: 11 June 2026.
2. Novo Nordisk. Wegovy® pill (semaglutide tablets) becomes first daily GLP-1 weight-loss pill approved in the UK. Published: 11 June 2026.
3. Wharton S, et al. for the OASIS 4 Study Group. Oral Semaglutide at a Dose of 25 mg in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2025. Sep18;393(11):1077-1087.