Prescription Criteria for Wegovy: What BMI Do You Need?
Struggling to figure out if you qualify for a Wegovy prescription in the UK? Confusing BMI cut-offs and health condition rules leave many people unsure about NHS or private access. This article breaks down every eligibility criteria, assessment steps, and best practice to check your fit. Phlo Clinic has already supported over 90,000 members in achieving up to 20% weight loss through similar treatments.
Finding effective weight loss support can feel overwhelming, especially with so much conflicting advice available. If you have been researching medical options this year, you have likely heard about Wegovy. It is a treatment that has gained significant attention across the UK for its ability to support long-term weight management. However, it is not a solution for everyone, and strict safety guidelines determine who can access it.
Understanding the eligibility criteria is the first step before you even start a consultation. These rules exist to ensure the medication is safe for you and effective for your specific health needs. Whether you are considering the NHS route or a private service like us at Phlo Clinic, the clinical requirements are clear-cut. Here is exactly what you need to know about who qualifies for a Wegovy prescription.
What is Wegovy?
Before looking at the criteria, it helps to understand what this medication actually is. Wegovy is a weekly injectable prescription medicine containing semaglutide. It belongs to a class of drugs that mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1, which regulates your appetite.
In practice, it works by binding to receptors in your brain to reduce hunger and cravings, while also slowing down how fast your stomach empties. This helps you feel fuller for longer. It is not just about suppressing appetite, though it is designed to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Wegovy is a weekly injection that has helped thousands of people in the UK achieve significant weight loss.
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Wegovy in the UK?
In the UK, eligibility for Wegovy is determined by clinical safety guidelines set by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). These criteria are strictly enforced by both NHS and private online pharmacies to ensure patient safety. The decision isn't based on aesthetics; it is based on medical necessity and health data.
Generally, you must meet specific Body Mass Index (BMI) thresholds and fall within a certain age range. Clinicians also look at your medical history to rule out contraindications. If you do not meet these baseline requirements, a prescriber cannot legally or safely issue the medication.
The core requirements include:
- Being aged between 18 and 85
- Meeting specific BMI thresholds (typically 30+, or 27+ with conditions)
- Having no history of specific excluded medical conditions
- Not being pregnant or breastfeeding
BMI Requirements
Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is the primary factor clinicians use to determine eligibility. For most patients, you must have a BMI of 30 or above (classified as obesity) to qualify for Wegovy.
However, if you have a weight-related health condition, this threshold drops to a BMI of 27 or above. Additionally, if you are switching from another GLP-1 medication, such as Mounjaro, or transferring from another provider to Phlo Clinic, we may approve treatment at a lower BMI if evidence of your previous prescriptions are provided.
Individuals from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds have an increased risk of weight-related health conditions at lower BMI values. Therefore, lower BMI thresholds apply, representing a reduction of 2.5 BMI points for eligibility.
For patients from BAME backgrounds, the following lower BMI thresholds apply for eligibility for Mounjaro:
- BMI 27.5 kg/m² or above – This is classified as obesity. If your BMI is here, you usually qualify based on weight alone
- BMI 24.5 to 27 kg/m² – This is classified as overweight. You can qualify in this range only if you also have a weight-related health condition (see below).
Weight-Related Health Conditions
If your BMI is between 27 and 30 (or 24.5 and 27 if you are from BAME background), you can still qualify for Wegovy if you have at least one weight-related comorbidity. These are health conditions that are caused or worsened by excess weight. Prescribing pharmacists view weight loss in these cases as a way to manage the underlying condition, not just the weight itself.
Age and Exclusion Factors
Even if you meet the weight criteria, certain factors will automatically exclude you from treatment for safety reasons. Wegovy is licensed for adults aged 18 to 85. It is not suitable for children or anyone outside this age bracket.
You will likely be ineligible if you:
- Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive
- Have a personal or family history of thyroid cancer
- Have a history of pancreatitis
- Have Type 1 diabetes
- Have an active eating disorder
NHS vs Private Prescription Eligibility
While the medical safety rules for Wegovy are consistent, the access points differ significantly between the NHS and private providers. The NHS has stricter criteria due to funding and capacity limitations. Private pharmacy providers follow the licensed medical guidelines but can often offer broader access to those who meet the safety checks.
The main difference lies in the BMI threshold and the waiting times. NHS pathways often require a higher BMI and a referral to a specialist tier 3 weight management service, which can take a long time. Private pharmacy services can assess you quickly based on the standard regulatory approval.
Route: Private pharmacy (Phlo Clinic)
Typical BMI requirement: 30+ (or 27+ with condition)
Process speed: Fast (days)
Route: NHS
Typical BMI requirement: 35+ (usually)
Process speed: Slow (months / years)
Accessing Wegovy on the NHS
To get Wegovy on the NHS, you generally need to jump through more hoops. Most Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) require a BMI of 35 or higher (or 32.5+ for certain ethnic groups) plus at least one weight-related comorbidity. You cannot simply get it from your GP; you must be referred to a specialist weight management service.
NHS eligibility requires BMI of 35+ (or 32.5+ for ethnic backgrounds) AND at least one weight-related comorbidity (Southwest London ICB).
Private Wegovy Prescriptions
Private online pharmacies offer a more direct route if you meet the standard licensing criteria. If your BMI is 30+, or 27+ with a condition, you are typically eligible for a private prescription. At Phlo Clinic, we also offer additional support packages that the NHS may not provide, such as our Dietitan GLP-1 nutrition guide, monthly check-ins and a dedicated Patient Care Team, available 7 days a week.
The cost falls on you, but the trade-off is immediate access and often more comprehensive ongoing support. For example, Phlo Clinic includes a 16-week nutrition programme called Phlo Nourish for every weight loss patient.
How the Eligibility Assessment Process Works
Getting a prescription isn't as simple as clicking "buy." Because Wegovy is a regulated medication, you must go through a clinical assessment. This is done digitally, but it is reviewed by real humans. We don’t use automatic approvals and we pride ourselves on putting safety first.
At Phlo Clinic, the process is designed to be thorough yet efficient. You complete an online consultation that gathers your health data. This information is then reviewed by a prescribing pharmacist who checks it against safety protocols. If you are eligible, the prescription is issued.
The typical process involves:
- Online Questionnaire: You answer questions about your weight, height, and medical history (approx. 3 mins).
- Clinical Review: A UK-registered prescribing pharmacist reviews your consultation individually.
- Verification: You will need to upload a photo ID and a body photo to verify your BMI.
- Approval: If safe, your treatment is approved for delivery.
Best Practices for Determining Your Eligibility
Before you apply for Wegovy, it is smart to do some homework. Many people get rejected simply because they guess their numbers or forget to mention crucial health details. Being prepared speeds up the process and ensures our clinical team has everything they need to make a safe decision.
You don't need a doctor's appointment just to check if you might qualify. You can do the preliminary checks at home. This helps you manage your expectations and saves you time filling out forms if you clearly don't meet the criteria.
Accurately Calculate Your BMI
Don't guess your weight. Use a reliable scale and measure your height accurately. Your BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared.
If you are on the borderline (e.g., BMI 29.8), small inaccuracies can affect your eligibility. Be honest with these numbers. Our clinicians are trained to spot discrepancies, and providing false data puts your health at serious risk.
Document Your Medical History
Have your medical details ready before you start the consultation. You will need to know the names of any medication you are currently taking and details of past conditions.
If you are switching from another provider to Phlo Clinic to access better pricing or support, have proof of your previous prescription ready. This is vital if your current BMI has dropped below 30 due to treatment, as you will need to prove you were eligible when you started.
Prepare for a Clinical Consultation
Even online assessments are clinical consultations. Be ready to answer questions about your lifestyle, diet, and exercise habits. Wegovy is prescribed as an adjunct to lifestyle changes, not a replacement for them.
Clinicians want to see that you are committed to the process. Being open about your previous weight loss attempts helps them understand your history and confirm that medical intervention is the right next step for you.
Common Mistakes When Checking Wegovy Eligibility
A common error is assuming that a high BMI is the only requirement. You might have a BMI of 35, but if you have a history of pancreatitis, you will still be ineligible. Safety always trumps weight criteria.
Another mistake is failing to disclose other medications. Some drugs interact with Wegovy, specifically those that affect blood sugar or stomach emptying. Hiding this information to "pass" the check is dangerous. Finally, don't rely on old measurements. If you have lost or gained weight recently, use your current stats.
How Phlo Clinic Makes Wegovy Access Easier
We’ve streamlined the process to make accessing Wegovy simple for eligible patients across the UK. You can view up-to-date information on Wegovy costs and treatment options here.
The service goes beyond just sending a pen. We include Phlo Nourish, a 16-week behaviour change programme, and monthly check-ins to ensure the treatment is working safely. Real patients have seen life-changing results; for instance, Nicole lost 42kg ahead of her wedding, and Tom lost 19kg, gaining the energy to play with his daughter.
Why patients choose Phlo Clinic:
- Free Tracked 24 Delivery: Temperature-controlled to keep medication safe.
- Clinical Support: Access to UK-based clinicians and monthly progress reviews.
- Proven Results: Patients like Lee lost 44kg (7 stone) through the supported service.
- Switching Support: Easy process for moving from other suppliers or medications like Mounjaro.
Eligibility for Wegovy in the UK is designed to keep you safe while providing effective treatment for obesity. If you have a BMI over 30, or over 27 with a weight-related condition, and no excluding medical history, you likely qualify for this treatment.
While the NHS route is an option, it is often restricted to those with higher BMIs and complex needs. At Phlo Clinic, we offer a faster, clinically supported alternative that includes the lifestyle guidance necessary for long-term success.
Clinical studies show up to 20.7% bodyweight loss over 72 weeks is possible with semaglutide (Novo Nordisk). If you meet the criteria and are ready to commit to lifestyle changes, checking your eligibility is the first step toward a healthier future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you calculate BMI accurately for Wegovy eligibility?
Divide your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. For example, 90kg at 1.7m height equals 90 / (1.7 x 1.7) = 31.1 BMI; use a digital scale and measure height without shoes for precision.
What are the side effects of Wegovy and how common are they?
Common side effects include nausea (44% of users), diarrhoea (30%), vomiting (24%), and constipation (24%); most are mild and decrease after 4 weeks. Severe risks like pancreatitis occur in under 1% of cases.
How much weight can you expect to lose on Wegovy?
Clinical trials show average 15-20% body weight loss over 68-72 weeks with diet and exercise; for a 100kg person, that's 15-20kg. Results vary by adherence and starting weight.
Can you drink alcohol while taking Wegovy?
Yes, in moderation, but alcohol may worsen nausea or dehydration from side effects. Limit to 1-2 units daily and avoid binge drinking to prevent low blood sugar or GI issues.
How long does it take to get Wegovy after approval?
At Phlo Clinic, we aim to deliver within 1-3 days via tracked, temperature-controlled shipping. Approval typically occurs 24-48 hours after online consultation review.
