Understanding Wegovy 7.2 mg: Clinical evidence and results
This higher dose of Wegovy is a major step forward in medication options for weight loss.
The STEP UP trial program provides compelling evidence for its effectiveness, particularly for patients who might need more intensive treatment options.
Trial design and results
The STEP UP trial enrolled 1,407 adults living with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) without diabetes.
Participants received weekly injections following a 20-week dose escalation period, starting from 0.25 mg and increasing through 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg to reach the 7.2 mg maintenance dose.
Key findings from the STEP UP trial:
- Average weight loss: 20.7% with 7.2 mg vs 17.5% with 2.4 mg vs 2.4% with placebo at 72 weeks
- ≥5% weight loss: Achieved by 93.2% of participants on 7.2 mg
- ≥10% weight loss: Achieved by 86.0% on 7.2 mg vs 77.6% on 2.4 mg
- ≥15% weight loss: Achieved by 70.4% on 7.2 mg vs 57.5% on 2.4 mg
- ≥20% weight loss: Achieved by 50.9% on 7.2 mg vs 35.1% on 2.4 mg
- ≥25% weight loss: Achieved by 33.2% on 7.2 mg vs 16.7% on 2.4 mg
These results demonstrate that the higher dose provides clinically meaningful improvements in weight loss compared to the standard dose.
The 33.2% of participants achieving ≥25% weight loss approaches the efficacy thresholds historically reserved for bariatric surgery, potentially expanding non-surgical options for people with more complex obesity.
A parallel study, STEP UP T2D, examined the 7.2 mg dose in adults with both obesity and type 2 diabetes.
While detailed results from this 512-participant trial are still emerging, preliminary data suggest similar outcomes in this population.
| Outcome Measure |
Wegovy 7.2 mg |
Wegovy 2.4 mg |
Placebo |
| Average weight loss |
20.7% |
17.5% |
2.4% |
| ≥25% weight loss |
33.2% |
16.7% |
0% |
| ≥20% weight loss |
50.9% |
35.1% |
1.2% |
| ≥15% weight loss |
70.4% |
57.5% |
2.4% |
| ≥10% weight loss |
86.0% |
77.6% |
10.8% |
| ≥5% weight loss |
93.2% |
92.0% |
28.9% |
European availability timeline
Novo Nordisk officially submitted the semaglutide 7.2 mg application to the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in July 2025.
The EMA review process typically requires 12-18 months for novel medications or significant dose changes.
Based on this standard timeline, European approval could come by late 2025 or early 2026.
Industry analysts expect this timeline to hold, particularly given the well-established safety profile of semaglutide at lower doses.
Ludovic Helfgott, Executive Vice President of Product & Portfolio Strategy at Novo Nordisk, has stated that “this new dose was developed as a tailored option for people in need of additional support to achieve meaningful, sustained weight loss.” The company has indicated plans for a broad EU rollout following regulatory approval.
Manufacturing preparations are already underway to support the commercial launch. Novo Nordisk acquired three fill-finish facilities from Catalent Inc. for $16.5 billion in 2024, doubling the company’s production capacity specifically to support higher-dose formulation rollout globally by 2026.
UK availability timeline and NHS considerations
Following Brexit, UK regulatory approval typically comes shortly after European approval through the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Based on recent patterns with other medications, UK availability would likely follow 3-6 months after European approval, placing potential UK launch in early-to-mid 2026.
NHS England already provides Wegovy 2.4 mg through a specialised weight management programmes for patients meeting specific criteria. Current NHS eligibility includes:
- BMI ≥35 with weight-related health problems, or BMI ≥30 with type 2 diabetes
- Enrollment in NHS weight management services
- Evidence of previous weight loss attempts
The higher 7.2 mg dose would likely follow similar pathways, though NHS England would need to conduct a health technology assessment before determining coverage criteria. This assessment typically takes 6-9 months following regulatory approval.
UK private healthcare availability would likely begin sooner than NHS provision, within 1-2 months of MHRA approval.
Private prescription costs are likely to be similar to, or slightly more than, the current cost of around £249 for the 2.4 mg dose of Wegovy.
US availability status
The US timeline remains uncertain as no FDA submission has been confirmed for semaglutide 7.2 mg as of August 2025.
This represents a significant divergence from the European regulatory strategy, where Novo Nordisk prioritised EMA submission first.
Industry analysis suggests this approach reflects the company’s assessment of regulatory complexity and competitive pressures in the US obesity market.
The absence of a US submission timeline creates uncertainty for American patients and healthcare providers seeking access to the higher dose formulation.
Online discussions among healthcare providers suggest that Novo Nordisk may delay US submission until after European approval, potentially allowing the company to address any regulatory feedback from the EMA review process before approaching the FDA.
Meanwhile, parallel US regulatory activities are advancing with other semaglutide formulations.
The FDA accepted Novo Nordisk’s New Drug Application for 25 mg oral semaglutide in May 2025, with a decision expected by the end of 2025.
Comparing Wegovy 7.2 mg with standard dose and competitors
The clinical significance of Wegovy 7.2 mg extends beyond simple weight percentage improvements.
The higher dose positions this formulation competitively against Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide (Mounjaro), addressing a key weakness in Novo Nordisk’s obesity portfolio.
Comparative efficacy across treatments
| Treatment |
Average Weight Loss |
≥25% Weight Loss |
Time Frame |
Notes |
| Wegovy 7.2 mg |
20.7% |
33.2% |
72 weeks |
STEP UP trial results |
| Wegovy 2.4 mg |
17.5% |
16.7% |
72 weeks |
STEP UP trial results |
| Mounjaro 15 mg |
~20% |
~30% |
72 weeks |
SURMOUNT trials |
| Bariatric Surgery |
25-30% |
~60% |
12 months |
Variable by procedure |
Head-to-head comparisons show similar weight loss outcomes between semaglutide 7.2 mg (20.7% weight loss) and tirzepatide 15 mg (20.9% weight loss from published trials).
This convergence eliminates the efficacy gap that previously favoured Lilly’s product in clinical decision-making.
With 33.2% of participants achieving ≥25% weight loss, semaglutide 7.2 mg approaches the efficacy thresholds historically reserved for bariatric surgery.
This positions the medication as a potential alternative to surgical intervention for appropriate candidates, expanding the treatment availability for patients living with complex obesity.
Pricing and access considerations
The pricing for semaglutide 7.2 mg remains undisclosed, creating uncertainty for healthcare systems, payers, and patients.
The higher API content and specialised manufacturing requirements suggest premium pricing versus standard Wegovy formulations.
Estimated cost comparison
- Current Wegovy 2.4 mg UK cost: ~£249 monthly (private prescription)
- Estimated Wegovy 7.2 mg cost: Unclear, but potentially between £250-£300
- NHS provision: Prescription fee of £9.95
- Private insurance coverage: Will vary by provider and plan details
Different countries will have different rules about who can get the higher dose. In European countries where health systems already cover the standard Wegovy, the 7.2 mg version might be available to more people.
In other places, you might only be able to get it if you pay for it yourself at first.
Even though the evidence shows improved weight loss outcomes, health systems will still need to decide if it’s worth the extra cost before they agree to cover it.
Monthly treatment costs should be considered against the potential long-term savings from improved health outcomes and reduced comorbidity management.
Safety profile and patient selection
The safety profile of semaglutide 7.2 mg remained largely consistent with the established GLP-1 receptor agonist class, with gastrointestinal adverse events representing the most common side effects.
According to detailed safety analyses, 87.5% of participants experienced adverse events, predominantly mild to moderate in severity.
Key safety findings from the STEP UP trial:
- Gastrointestinal events: 70.8% with 7.2 mg vs 61.2% with 2.4 mg vs 42.8% with placebo
- Severe GI events: 3.4% with 7.2 mg vs 3.5% with 2.4 mg
- Dysesthesia (abnormal skin sensations): 22.9% with 7.2 mg vs 6.0% with 2.4 mg
- Stopping medication due to side effects: 5.4% for 7.2 mg vs 4.0% for 2.4 mg
A notable finding was the emergence of dysesthesia in 22.9% of 7.2 mg recipients compared to 6.0% with 2.4 mg.
However, 85.7% of these cases recovered while continuing treatment, and most were mild to moderate in severity.
The 7.2 mg dose isn’t intended as a starting dose but rather as an option for patients requiring more support with their weight loss.
Clinical implementation will likely follow existing titration protocols, with patients progressing through standard dose increases before consideration for the higher dose.
Frequently asked questions
When will Wegovy 7.2 mg be available in the UK?
Wegovy 7.2 mg is expected to be available in the UK in early to mid-2026, approximately 3-6 months after anticipated European approval. Private availability will likely precede NHS provision.
However, this timeline is completely dependent on when the medication gets approved.
How much more effective is Wegovy 7.2 mg compared to the standard dose?
Wegovy 7.2 mg achieved 20.7% average weight loss compared to 17.5% with the standard 2.4 mg dose.
Plus, twice as many patients (33.2% vs 16.7%) achieved ≥25% weight loss with the higher dose.
Will the NHS cover Wegovy 7.2 mg?
NHS coverage will depend on a health technology assessment following regulatory approval.
Given the established NHS pathway for standard Wegovy, the higher dose would likely follow similar criteria but may have additional requirements due to higher costs.
How does Wegovy 7.2 mg compare to Mounjaro (tirzepatide)?
Wegovy 7.2 mg (20.7% weight loss) shows comparable weight loss to Mounjaro 15 mg (20.9% weight loss).
Are there more side effects with the higher dose?
The safety profile remains similar, with slightly higher rates of gastrointestinal side effects (70.8% vs 61.2%) and notably more dysesthesia (22.9% vs 6.0%).
However, severe side effects and discontinuation rates remained comparable between doses.
How much will Wegovy 7.2 mg cost?
While official pricing hasn’t been announced, the higher active ingredient content suggests UK private prescription costs could range from £250 to 300 a month. However, this cost is completely speculative.
Will I be able to switch from standard Wegovy to the 7.2 mg dose?
Clinical guidelines are still developing, but the 7.2 mg dose is likely to be positioned as an additional option for patients who have tolerated the 2.4 mg dose but require additional weight loss support.
Take home message
The current research on Wegovy 7.2 mg suggests it will be able to support similar weight loss outcomes as Mounjaro 15 mg.
European availability is expected by late 2025 or early 2026, with UK availability likely following in early-to-mid 2026.
US timeline remains uncertain pending FDA submission. The higher dose substantially improves on the current 2.4 mg dose, with twice as many patients achieving ≥25% weight loss.
Second Nature's Mounjaro and Wegovy programmes
Second Nature provides Mounjaro or Wegovy as part of our Mounjaro and Wegovy weight-loss programmes.
Why choose Second Nature over other medication providers, assuming you're eligible?
Because peace of mind matters.
We've had the privilege of working with the NHS for over eight years, helping people across the UK take meaningful steps toward a healthier, happier life.
Our programmes are designed to meet people where they are, whether that means support with weight loss through compassionate one-to-one health coaching, or access to the latest weight-loss medications (like Mounjaro and Wegovy) delivered alongside expert care from a multidisciplinary team of doctors, psychologists, dietitians, and personal trainers.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple belief: real, lasting change comes from building better habits, not relying on quick fixes. We're here to support that change every step of the way.
With over a decade of experience, thousands of lives changed, and a long-standing record of delivering programmes used by the NHS, we believe we're the UK's most trusted weight-loss programme.
We hope to offer you something invaluable: peace of mind, and the support you need to take that first step.
