GLP-1 medication provider Simple Online Healthcare said over 55,000 people were already on its waitlist for weight loss treatments.

Abdal Alvi, chief clinical officer at Simple Online Healthcare, said: ‘We welcome the MHRA's approval of the Wegovy pill. For many people, a tablet may feel more familiar and less daunting than an injection, and oral GLP-1s have the potential to widen access to effective obesity treatment.

‘However, it is important that patients understand these are still powerful prescription medicines. They need to be used correctly, under appropriate clinical supervision, and alongside lifestyle change and ongoing support.

‘While a tablet may appear simpler, patients should be aware that the tablets work under specific conditions - for example, taken fasted, with a specific amount of water and taken whole. Even small changes in how it is taken will considerably affect how well the medication works.'

New research from Simple Online Healthcare suggests oral GLP-1s could attract 120,000-130,000 UK patients within three months of launch, including around 100,000 people new to treatment, with 61% of people not currently using GLP-1 medications saying they would prefer a daily pill.