‘Game-changing’ weight loss favoured by celebs set to be dished out on NHS
A WEIGHT loss jab favoured by celebs is set to be dished out on the NHS.
Wegovy is said to have helped reality star Kim Kardashian and Twitter boss Elon Musk shed the pounds.
It will soon be available via Boots on prescription to thousands with obesity.
Developed to treat type 2 diabetes the jab, which contains the drug semaglutide, has been hailed for its appetite-suppressing effects.
Studies show it helped a third of people reduce their weight by 20 per cent.
Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, said: “For some people, losing weight is a real challenge which is why a medicine like semaglutide is a welcome option.”
Wegovy is available privately for £130 and will be dished out at a standard prescription charge of £9.35 with the NHS paying the rest.
It will go to patients with a BMI of at least 35 that suffer from weight-related conditions.
The weekly injection works by suppressing the appetite — mimicking a naturally occurring hormone that is released after eating.
Obesity costs the NHS £6billion a year.
Telly GP Sarah Jarvis said: “This is not a magic bullet. But it will help, no question.
“It can be the push in the right direction they need.”