Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company, has introduced its weight loss injection, Wegovy, in the United Kingdom. Despite ongoing supply challenges, the company is expanding the drug’s availability in Europe. Initially, the weekly injection will have a controlled and limited launch, with specific patients eligible to receive it through the National Health Service (NHS). To be eligible for treatment, patients must be enrolled in the NHS weight management service, have a weight-related condition, and have a body mass index (BMI) of 35, according to recommendations from the National Institute for Care and Excellence. Additionally, the drug will be available privately through registered healthcare professionals. The final price of Wegovy for NHS England remains undisclosed, but it has been deemed a cost-effective use of NHS resources by the U.K. drug cost-effectiveness watchdog. The private market price will be determined by licensed prescribers. In the United States, Wegovy is priced at $1,350 per month, while in Europe, it retails for approximately 170 to 300 euros ($190-$330) per month. British insurer Aviva announced that it will not cover Wegovy under its policy.
Novo Nordisk’s expansion of Wegovy in the U.K. follows its recent launch in Germany, making it the third European market after Denmark and Norway. The drug’s increasing demand, along with clinical studies highlighting its broader health benefits, has led to a surge in the company’s stock value. It briefly surpassed LVMH to become Europe’s most valuable company.
However, supply constraints continue to impact the drug’s rollout. Novo Nordisk’s CEO, Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen, acknowledged that it could take several years before the company can meet the demand fully. In the U.K., a portion of the available supply will be specifically allocated for NHS treatment, prioritizing patients with the highest unmet medical needs. Novo Nordisk is closely monitoring the demand for Wegovy and collaborating with regulators and healthcare providers to ensure access to and continuity of treatment for people with obesity. Provisions have also been limited in other markets, such as the U.S. and Germany, to ensure availability for existing patients and those with medical needs.
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