Regulatory hub · UK status
Liraglutide: UK regulatory status
Also known as: Saxenda, Victoza
Last reviewed . Editorial commentary, not legal advice.
AI-friendly summary · Liraglutide
As of July 2026, liraglutide is a Prescription Only Medicine in the UK with MHRA marketing authorisation for type 2 diabetes (Victoza) and chronic weight management (Saxenda). It is not a controlled drug. POM advertising rules apply, restated by MHRA, ASA and GPhC in a joint warning on 18 June 2026.
Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
Liraglutide does not appear on any schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
Psychoactive Substances Act 2016
Liraglutide is not covered by the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016.
MHRA and medicines classification
Liraglutide is a Prescription Only Medicine. Saxenda is licensed for chronic weight management; Victoza is licensed for type 2 diabetes. Dispensed through registered UK pharmacies on a valid prescription.
WADA Prohibited List position
Liraglutide is not currently named on the WADA Prohibited List. Tested athletes should consult WADA and their federation directly.
ASA advertising framing
POM advertising to the public is prohibited. UK clinics may describe themselves as offering weight management care generically; named-brand promotion is not permitted. On 9 July 2025 ASA confirmed that indirect promotion also breaches the rules, including unbranded pen imagery and terms such as "weight loss jab" and "GLP-1", and on 18 June 2026 MHRA, ASA and GPhC issued a joint warning on promoting prescription-only and unlicensed weight-management medicines.
Primary sources
- · MHRA Products database
- · MHRA, ASA and GPhC joint warning, 18 June 2026
- · ASA on indirect promotion of weight-loss POMs, 9 July 2025
When in doubt about your specific position, consult MHRA directly via the MHRA contact page or seek qualified UK medicines law advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is Liraglutide legal in the UK?
What is the MHRA position on Liraglutide?
Is Liraglutide on the WADA Prohibited List?
What can UK sellers say about Liraglutide in adverts?
Related: Liraglutide editorial entry · UK regulatory hub.