The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved a new maximum weekly dose of semaglutide of up to 7.2mg.
The regulatory agency shares that this is designed to target weight management in adults with obesity, and states that the higher dose applies only to patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30kg/m² or above.
It also outlines that the stronger dosage must be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. According to the MHRA, the new maximum dose is administered as three consecutive 2.4mg injections on the same day, following a structured dose-escalation schedule.
The agency states that treatment begins at 0.25mg per week, with doses increased every four weeks under healthcare professional supervision until 2.4mg is reached. It further advises that, where clinically appropriate, the dose may be increased to 7.2mg after a minimum of four weeks at 2.4mg.
The MHRA further highlights that the approval does not apply to patients using semaglutide to reduce cardiovascular risk.