Close the Loop : Your Complete Guide to the Wegovy PenCycle Scheme

Last updated: 18 September 2026

PenCycle is a free UK scheme from Novo Nordisk for recycling empty, pre-filled Novo Nordisk pens, including Wegovy pens. It gives people using eligible pens a route other than household waste, while keeping used needles separate in a sharps container.

Can Wegovy pens be recycled?

Yes. Empty pre-filled Wegovy pens can be returned through PenCycle in the dedicated return box. The scheme is for eligible pre-filled Novo Nordisk pens only; it does not accept pens from other manufacturers, insulin vials, pumps or loose needles.

How to use PenCycle

1. Follow the disposal instructions supplied with your particular Wegovy pen. For FlexTouch pens, remove the needle after each injection and put it straight into a sharps bin. Never put loose needles in a PenCycle return box.
2. Order a free PenCycle return box online or collect one from a participating pharmacy. Check the PenCycle website for current availability near you.
3. Place eligible empty, pre-filled Novo Nordisk pens in the dedicated box.
4. When the box is full, return it to a participating pharmacy or send it to Novo Nordisk using the FREEPOST address on the box. Some pharmacies cannot accept boxes because of local arrangements, so check before travelling.

What can go in the box?

PenCycle accepts eligible empty pre-filled Novo Nordisk pens in its own return box. This includes Wegovy pens. Do not include needles, sharps bins, pens made by another manufacturer, insulin vials or pumps. If you are unsure whether a device is eligible, ask your pharmacist or check PenCycle before returning it.

Safe disposal comes first

PenCycle complements, rather than replaces, safe sharps disposal. Needles are single use and should be disposed of immediately as directed in your medicine leaflet. Sharps bins must not go in household rubbish; your pharmacy, GP practice or local authority can explain the local disposal route.

Wegovy pen types and instructions

Wegovy is supplied in more than one pen format in the UK, including multi-dose FlexTouch pens and a single-dose 7.2 mg pen. Always follow the patient leaflet and Instructions for Use supplied with your own pen for storage, injection and disposal. For treatment information, see our Wegovy weight-loss injection page.

This article provides general information only. Ask a pharmacist or prescriber if you are unsure how to dispose of your pen safely.

Sources

• PenCycle: UK patient information.
• Wegovy UK: frequently asked questions.
• Wegovy 7.2 mg Patient Information Leaflet.

Last updated: 17 September 2026.