Wegovy® approved by MHRA for 48-hour controlled-temperature delivery

Wegovy® delivery update in the UK: what it means for patients

A recent regulatory update from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) changes how Wegovy (semaglutide) FlexTouch® pens can be delivered to patients in the UK. This is particularly relevant for people receiving their medication through online pharmacies or home delivery services.

What has actually changed?

Previously, Wegovy® had to stay within the cold chain (2°C–8°C) at all times during transport.

Now, following MHRA approval (and earlier approval on 12 April by the European Medicines Agency), pharmacies can:

• Deliver Wegovy® to patients
• At temperatures up to 30°C
• For a maximum of 48 hours during transit

This applies only to the delivery stage from the pharmacy to the patient.

Wegovy® is now the first GLP-1 weight management treatment in the UK with this level of delivery flexibility.

What does this mean for you as a patient?

1. IF your delivery no longer feels “cold”

For example your Wegovy® package:

• May arrive cool, room temperature, or slightly warm
• May not include ice packs

This is expected and safe as per MHRA, as long as:

• The temperature has not exceeded 30°C
• Delivery occurred within the 48-hour window

2. When your 6-week room temperature period starts

This is a key point that often causes confusion, Wegovy® can be stored:

• In the fridge (2°C–8°C) before use
• OR at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 6 weeks AFTER you start using the pen

The 6-week countdown does NOT start during delivery, it starts:

• After you remove the pen from the fridge for use, or
• When you intentionally begin storing it at room temperature

3. What you should do when your delivery arrives

When you receive your medication:

Check the following:

• Packaging is intact
• The pen is not excessively hot
• No signs of damage or leakage

Then:

• Store it in the fridge (2°C–8°C) if you are not starting immediately
• Or keep it below 30°C if already in use

When should you contact your pharmacy?

You should raise concerns if:

• The package feels very hot (above normal room temperature, especially >30°C exposure suspected)
• Delivery was significantly delayed (well beyond 48 hours)
• The medication looks unusual (cloudy, discoloured, or damaged)
• It is not appropriate to raise concerns solely because the package was not cold.

Why has this change been made?

This update supports:

• Safer and more reliable home delivery
• Reduced delays and failed deliveries
• Lower environmental impact (less packaging and ice packs)
• Improved access via online and distance-selling pharmacies

Important safety reminder

Wegovy® (semaglutide) is a prescription-only medicine used for weight management alongside diet and lifestyle changes. It should always be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Key takeaways

• Wegovy® can now be delivered below 30°C for up to 48 hours
• It does not need to stay refrigerated during delivery
• The 6-week room temperature limit starts after you begin use, not during shipping
• A non-cold delivery is normal and compliant with MHRA guidance
• This is only applicable during the medication delivery phase

If you are interested in learning more about Wegovy please click here to start a free consultation.