Nevolat is a generic medicine that contains an active ingredient called liraglutide. It is a weight loss medicine that, when injected daily, can reduce your appetite, make you feel fuller for longer and make you want to eat less. It works by mimicking the hormone in your brain called GLP-1.

It is similar to Saxenda in the fact that both medicines contain the same active ingredient and are intended to treat obesity.

Generic medicines are typically much cheaper because they don’t carry the high research and development costs associated with branded drugs. Branded medications are developed through years of costly research, and to recoup these investments, companies often price them significantly higher.¹

During the patent period, only the original manufacturer can produce the drug, allowing them to set prices without competition. Once the patent expires, other companies can manufacture generic versions of the drug. These generics contain the same active ingredients and are just as effective but cost less to produce. This means that they can be sold at lower prices.¹

At Well Pharmacy, patients who are prescribed Nevolat will either buy:

• A starter pack, which contains 3 pens, for £127
• A maintenance pack, which contains 5 pens, for £199

There are several other weight loss medications available. Their starting prices are:

• Mounjaro at £149
• Wegovy at £149
• Orlistat at £49.99

So while Nevolat is cheaper than injectable GLP-1 weight loss medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro, it costs more than orlistat oral capsules.

During your consultation with your pharmacist, you can discuss the options available to you.

Wegovy and Mounjaro are weekly injections. Your first package of both medicines will last 1 month if used as instructed. As the strength of the medications increases, so does the cost.

This table breaks down the monthly cost of each medicine.

Yes. Generic medicines are typically much cheaper because they don’t carry the high research and development costs associated with branded drugs. Branded medications are developed through years of costly research, and to recoup these investments, companies often price them significantly higher.¹

During the patent period, only the original manufacturer can produce the drug, allowing them to set prices without competition. Once the patent expires, other companies can manufacture generic versions of the drug. These generics contain the same active ingredients and are just as effective but cost less to produce—leading to lower prices for hospitals and other medical practices.¹

Choosing medicated weight loss is a financial commitment. For some people, it may not be a viable option. If you can’t afford medicated weight loss now, there are other ways you can access weight loss help and support.

Speak to your local GP or pharmacist about weight loss programmes in your area. They may recommend classes and clubs, some of which may be discounted. These environments can help you stick to an exercise routine. Staying active with someone else can make you more likely to continue.

But exercise isn’t the only route to weight loss. Other factors including your eating habits and genetics can influence your weight. If you can’t or would prefer not to join a. class, the NHS has lots of free resources that you can use to plan and track your weight management progress. They have advice on diet and exercise as well as meal plans and workouts you can try.

We also have a library of helpful information you can use. You can take a look at expert advice on diet and nutrition, weight-related health conditions, wellbeing factors and the science behind weight management.