Saffron Health PartnershipThere has been significant media coverage regarding Semaglutide for managing weight and obesity. Semaglutide for weight loss is not recommended for prescribing by GPs at the current time.
Patients need to fulfil a defined criteria:-
NICE has recommended that Semaglutide should be prescribed, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, as part of specialist weight management services (tier 3 and 4) to people with at least one weight-related co-morbidity and a body mass index (BMI) of at least 35kg/m2 or between 30kg/m2 – 34.9kg/m2 who meet the defined criteria.
The NICE TA will be ratified by the Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes Area Prescribing Committee in May 2023.
Patients can be assured that we are working with local obesity services and other stakeholders to implement this guidance within the statutory 3-month period.
Patients who are eligible for weight management referrals will be managed appropriately.
The ICB is reviewing the guidance on Semaglutide and will issue further advice in due course.
Wegovy® Flexpen is currently not available in major wholesalers or on SystmOne.
Ozempic pre-filled pens licensed for use in the management of type 2 diabetes will not be prescribed off label for weight loss on the NHS due to pressures on the supply chain resulting in stock issues.
Stock will be prioritised for patients currently prescribed this for management of their diabetes.
Please view the NICE guidance for more information.