A controversial new weight loss drug dubbed a 'game changer' is to be made available through the NHS very soon.
The appetite suppressant Wegovy (the drug semaglutide, also sold under the brand name Ozempic), said to be popular amongst celebrities, will be made available in England for certain people living with obesity.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has given the drug the green light to be used in the NHS.
Some are looking forward to the drug but others have warned that it is not a "quick fix".
Alex Miras, professor of endocrinology at Ulster University, said she is looking forward to the arrival of the drug.
"This decision made by Nice is a pivotal moment for the treatment of people living with obesity," she said
"The weight loss that can be achieved with this safe medication is substantial and likely to lead to the improvement of obesity-related complications in a large number of patients."
A previous study saw people's weight drop by 12% on average after 68 weeks on the drug.
Nice has issued final guidance recommending Wegovy for adults with at least one weight-related condition - including diabetes, high blood pressure obstructive sleep apnoea and heart disease - and a body mass index (BMI) score of at least 35.
People will only be given Wegovy on prescription as part of a specialist weight management service for a maximum of two years and alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Patients inject themselves weekly with the drug, which suppresses their appetite by mimicking the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that is released after eating.
This makes people feel full, meaning they eat less and lose weight.
Prof Nick Finer, honorary clinical professor at the National Centre for Cardiovascular Prevention and Outcomes at UCL, said: "The efficacy of semaglutide is a true game changer for the medical treatment of obesity, a chronic disease that shortens life through its many complications."
The drug will be available to NHS patients soon when the launch of the drug in England is confirmed by manufacturer Novo Nordisk.
Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at Nice, said: "For some people losing weight is a real challenge which is why a medicine like semaglutide is a welcome option.
"It won't be available to everyone. Our committee has made specific recommendations to ensure it remains value for money for the taxpayer, and it can only be used for a maximum of two years.
"We are pleased to finally publish our final guidance on semaglutide which will mean some people will be able to access this much talked about drug on the NHS."
Dr Stephen Lawrence, associate clinical professor at the University of Warwick, added: "When used in accordance with the prescribed guidelines, it promotes weight loss in a safe and effective way for most people.
"It is important to note, however, that this medication is not a quick fix or a replacement for following a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular physical activity and healthy eating.
"It should therefore only be offered following assessment of the person taking the medication and as part of a programme to establish a healthy lifestyle."
Charity Beat raised concerns about the impact of the drug on people with eating disorders.
Tom Quinn, Beat's director of external affairs, said: "Weight-loss medications like semaglutide can be extremely attractive to people with eating disorders as they appear to provide quick results.
"However, these medications can be very dangerous as they can worsen harmful thoughts and behaviours for those unwell, or contribute to an eating disorder developing for someone who is already vulnerable."
In February it emerged that some high street chemists in England will prescribe the drug, if suitable, through their online doctor services.
A spokesperson for Novo Nordisk said: "Novo Nordisk welcomes the final Nice recommendation for Wegovy (once-weekly semaglutide 2.4mg), as an option for weight management within the NHS.
"We are working to make Wegovy available in the UK as soon as possible."
