As the UAE becomes the second country in the world to approve the Wegovy pill, here’s a breakdown of the cost, requirements and where it’s available

The UAE has become the second country globally to approve the Wegovy weight loss pill. Announced on June 1, the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) confirmed that Wegovy would become available in the UAE as a weight loss pill, joining the already approved Foundayo (orforglipron), which the EDE approved in April.

Here’s everything you need to know.

How does the Wegovy pill work?

Like its injection counterparts, Wegovy (semuglutide), is a GLP-1 that surpresses appetite, which – alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical exercise – is designed to support weight loss.

How often do you take it?

The Wegovy weight loss pill should be taken once per day.

It should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, swallowed with water, per the official Wegovy website.

What are the different doses?

There are four different dose strengths: 1.5mg, 4mg, 9mg and 25 mg.

Those new to taking Wegovy should begin with the 1,5mg once-daily dose, and increase every 30 days, as tolerated or prescribed, until reaching the 25mg dose.

Where is it available?

In the UAE, several pharmacies now stock the Wegovy pill, including Aster and BinSina Pharmacy. You need a prescription to be able to purchase the Wegovy pill.

How much does it cost?

Prices appear to range from Dhs779 to Dhs1,610, depending on the strength of the dose. A quick look online shows that the 1.5mg and 4mg tablets are priced at Dhs779, while the 9mg dose is Dhs1,199 and the 25mg dose is Dhs1,610. All prices are for a box of 30 tablets, designed to last one month.