Wegovy (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable prescription medicine used for weight loss in adults who are overweight or have obesity, and to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. In order to maximise benefits, Wegovy should be used alongside a plan for diet and exercise. Generally, treatment can be suitable for patients with a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27 or above if you have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure.
Wegovy is a prescription medicine (active ingredient: semaglutide). It is prescribed for adults to support weight management and weight control, and is also used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It works by acting on receptors in the brain that control your appetite, which can make you feel fuller, less hungry, and experience fewer food cravings.
This medicine is designed to work alongside lifestyle modifications. To achieve the best results, it should be part of a plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Your GP or specialist will prescribe this based on your specific health needs.
Eligibility is primarily determined by your Body Mass Index (BMI), which is a measure of your weight relative to your height:
BMI of 30kg/m² or higher: You are generally eligible for treatment based on your weight alone.
BMI of 27kg/m² to 29.9kg/m²: You can't usually access the medication based on weight alone in this range. You'll need to have at least one weight-related health condition, such as:
A doctor will check your health profile to ensure there are no medical reasons that prevent you from taking it. For example, generally, you won't be suitable for Wegovy if you have:
Clinical studies have shown patients can lose up to 17% of their weight by following a combination of weekly Wegovy injections over an extended period and consistent lifestyle changes.
With our personalised plan, you could reach 86 kg in 10 months. That's a weight loss of 14 kg.
This projection is based on the average results from large-scale clinical trials and is for informational purposes only.
Clinical trials have observed the following changes for some patients:
Note: Individual results vary. These outcomes are based on clinical trial data and should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Before first use, your healthcare provider should show you how to inject it. Always read the full "Instructions for Use" leaflet provided with your medicine.
Important Note: Every time you inject, select a new location that is at least a finger's width apart from the previous site. Rotating your injection sites is crucial for preventing the development of persistent, hard lumps (fatty nodules), which can form and reduce how well your medication works.
Like all medicines, Wegovy can cause side effects, although not everybody will experience them. It's important to be aware of what to look for.
Common (may affect more than 1 in 10): headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain, feeling weak or tired. These usually pass over time as your body adjusts.
Rare – seek immediate medical attention:
All medical information on this page has been reviewed by our clinical partners at MedicOnline
The Bua Knowledge Centre
A practical guide to Wegovy eligibility in Ireland in 2026: BMI criteria, qualifying conditions, contraindications, expected costs, dose schedule, and what happens if you stop.
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A practical guide to the Wegovy pill timeline for Ireland: evidence from OASIS trials, EU regulatory status, likely availability window, eligibility, and what patients can do now.
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Thinking about starting Wegovy in Ireland? This guide covers common side effects, serious risks, who should not take it, and what to expect before you begin.
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An evidence-based comparison of Wegovy and Mounjaro in Ireland: mechanism, weight-loss outcomes, side effects, access, cost, and who each treatment may suit best.
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A practical guide to what happens after stopping Wegovy: weight regain timelines, tapering approaches, and long-term management strategies for Irish patients.
Read
Yes, your GP can prescribe Wegovy in Ireland - but practical access, follow-up structure, and ongoing support can vary significantly in real-world care.
Read
What EU approval of Wegovy 7.2 mg means for Ireland: STEP UP trial results, eligibility, rollout timeline, and how this changes the Wegovy vs Mounjaro conversation.
ReadWegovy (semaglutide) is available in Ireland on private prescription. Honest 2026 guide: Ozempic vs Wegovy, supply, counterfeit risk, dose schedule, 7.2 mg update, pricing by dose, eligibility, and safe access via Bua Health.
ReadA practical guide to Wegovy eligibility in Ireland in 2026: BMI criteria, qualifying conditions, contraindications, expected costs, dose schedule, and what happens if you stop.
A practical guide to the Wegovy pill timeline for Ireland: evidence from OASIS trials, EU regulatory status, likely availability window, eligibility, and what patients can do now.
Thinking about starting Wegovy in Ireland? This guide covers common side effects, serious risks, who should not take it, and what to expect before you begin.
An evidence-based comparison of Wegovy and Mounjaro in Ireland: mechanism, weight-loss outcomes, side effects, access, cost, and who each treatment may suit best.
A practical guide to what happens after stopping Wegovy: weight regain timelines, tapering approaches, and long-term management strategies for Irish patients.
Yes, your GP can prescribe Wegovy in Ireland - but practical access, follow-up structure, and ongoing support can vary significantly in real-world care.
What EU approval of Wegovy 7.2 mg means for Ireland: STEP UP trial results, eligibility, rollout timeline, and how this changes the Wegovy vs Mounjaro conversation.
Wegovy (semaglutide) is available in Ireland on private prescription. Honest 2026 guide: Ozempic vs Wegovy, supply, counterfeit risk, dose schedule, 7.2 mg update, pricing by dose, eligibility, and safe access via Bua Health.
