MHRA Approves Higher 7.2mg Wegovy Dose for Adults With Obesity
Reviewed and fact-checked by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist. Read our editorial policy to learn how we create accurate, patient-focused health content.
The UK medicines regulator has approved a higher maximum dose of Wegovy (semaglutide) for some adults living with obesity. On 6 January 2026, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) confirmed that prescribers may increase Wegovy up to 7.2mg per week, where clinically appropriate.
This change applies only to adults with obesity, and does not affect people using Wegovy for other approved indications.
Who the 7.2mg Wegovy dose is for
The higher 7.2mg weekly dose is approved only for adult patients with obesity, defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30kg/m² or higher.
It must be used alongside:
- A reduced-calorie diet
- Increased physical activity
- Ongoing medical supervision
This higher dose does not apply to:
- People with a BMI below 30kg/m² using Wegovy for weight management
- Patients prescribed Wegovy to reduce cardiovascular risk
Patients should always follow their prescriber’s instructions and speak to a doctor, pharmacist or nurse if they are unsure about their dose.
How Wegovy dosing usually works
Wegovy is designed to be introduced gradually to reduce side effects and allow the body to adjust.
When starting treatment, patients begin at a low dose and increase every four weeks under medical guidance, following the standard escalation schedule:
- Weeks 1–4: 0.25mg weekly
- Weeks 5–8: 0.5mg weekly
- Weeks 9–12: 1mg weekly
- Weeks 13–16: 1.7mg weekly
- From week 17: 2.4mg weekly
For most patients, 2.4mg per week remains the long-term maintenance dose.
When the 7.2mg dose may be considered
For adult patients with obesity only, prescribers may now consider increasing the dose to 7.2mg per week, but only if:
- The patient has been on 2.4mg weekly for at least 4 weeks
- Additional clinical benefit is expected
- The higher dose is well tolerated
The maximum weekly dose is 7.2mg, and dose increases should never be made without medical supervision.
How the 7.2mg dose is taken
Wegovy is supplied as 2.4mg pens, so the 7.2mg dose is given as three separate injections on the same day.
Important administration points include:
- The injections can be given in the same body area, but must be at least 5cm apart
- A new needle must be used for each injection
- Multiple pens may be required to complete the full dose
- Each pen contains four 2.4mg doses and should not be discarded until all four doses are used
- Partially used pens should be stored in the fridge with the needle removed
Patients are advised to check they have enough pens available before starting the 7.2mg dose, to avoid missed injections.
Side effects and safety reporting
As with all medicines, Wegovy can cause side effects. Anyone who experiences unexpected or concerning symptoms should speak to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse.
Suspected side effects can also be reported directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card Scheme, helping regulators monitor medicine safety across the UK.
A pharmacist’s perspective
"This approval gives prescribers more flexibility when managing obesity, but it’s important to stress that higher doses aren’t suitable for everyone. Wegovy should always be increased gradually and used alongside lifestyle changes, with close medical oversight." Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist
Final thoughts
The MHRA’s decision to approve a 7.2mg weekly dose of Wegovy reflects growing clinical experience with semaglutide in obesity care. However, this higher dose is not a routine step and is intended only for selected adults with obesity, under specialist supervision.
If you’re using Wegovy or considering treatment, your healthcare professional can advise whether your current dose is appropriate and discuss any potential changes safely.
For further guidance on weight management, patients can also refer to NHS-approved resources and support services.
