If you’re considering weight loss injections like Wegovy or Mounjaro as a tool to support your weight loss journey, you might well be feeling a little overwhelmed about the sheer volume of information (and misinformation!) out there. Weight loss injections (known as GLP-1) have taken the healthcare world by storm. They provide a new approach to achieving a healthy weight that is both safe and effective – provided that it’s done under medical supervision.
But how do these injections work, and are they the right choice for you? If you’re considering embarking on this journey, our UK-based GPs and specialist weight loss nurses are here to support you with accurate, useful and helpful information and advice.
What Are Weight Loss Injections?
Weight loss injections are a type of medical treatment designed to help individuals manage their weight by influencing metabolism or appetite. These injections contain medications that mimic the effects of naturally occurring hormones in the body, helping to regulate hunger and calorie intake. Unlike fad diets or unregulated supplements, weight loss injections are clinically tested and prescribed by healthcare professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness.
The most popular injectable weight loss medications available in the UK are semaglutide and liraglutide. These drugs are known by their brand names, including Wegovy or Ozempic. They work by mimicking the action of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that plays a crucial role in appetite regulation and digestion.
How Do GLP-1 Injections Work?
GLP-1 is a hormone naturally released by the body after eating. It helps to control appetite, slow digestion, and regulate blood sugar levels. Weight loss injections containing GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking this hormone and enhancing its effects. When administered, these injections bind to GLP-1 receptors found on cells in the pancreas, brain, and digestive system. This triggers several physiological responses:
- Increased Feelings of Fullness: The medication acts on the brain to reduce hunger and increase the feeling of satiety after eating, leading to lower food intake.
- Slower Digestion: GLP-1 agonists slow down the movement of food through the stomach, which helps individuals feel fuller for longer periods.
- Regulation of Blood Sugar Levels: These injections stimulate the pancreas to release insulin while simultaneously suppressing glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. This stabilises blood sugar and can be beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Do Weight Loss Injections Really Work?
Studies have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists are effective in promoting weight loss. However, the amount of weight loss achieved varies from person to person. Several factors influence the effectiveness of these medications, including:
- Starting weight: Individuals with a higher body weight often see more significant reductions.
- Adherence to the treatment plan: Consistently following the prescribed dosage and lifestyle recommendations can improve results.
- Diet and exercise: While the medication helps reduce appetite, combining it with a balanced diet and regular physical activity enhances overall weight loss outcomes.
How Much Weight Can You Lose with Weight Loss Injections?
The amount of weight lost depends on individual circumstances, but it’s currently accepted that you could expect to lose around 21% of your body weight with Mounjaro, or 10-15% with Wegovy.
While these averages are encouraging, it is important to approach weight loss injections with realistic expectations. They are not a miracle solution but rather a tool to support long-term weight management when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Are Weight Loss Injections Safe?
Weight loss injections are clinically tested and approved for use in the UK. However, like any medication, they come with potential side effects. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Mild stomach discomfort
These side effects typically subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, it is crucial to use weight loss injections under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can monitor progress and manage any adverse effects.
Who Can Use Weight Loss Injections?
GLP-1 weight loss injections are generally prescribed for individuals who meet certain criteria, including:
- Having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above (classified as obese)
- Having a BMI of 27 or above with weight-related health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- Being committed to making long-term lifestyle changes to support weight management
They may not be suitable for individuals with a history of severe gastrointestinal conditions, thyroid disorders, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. A healthcare professional can determine eligibility based on an individual’s medical history and overall health.
Why Choose a Medically Supervised Weight Loss Programme?
While weight loss injections are available through various providers, choosing a clinically supervised programme is essential for safety and effectiveness. If you’re considering weight loss injections, seeking guidance from a trusted healthcare provider can make all the difference to your experience. Well by Vertis offers a comprehensive, medically led service, ensuring that you’re supported throughout your weight loss journey.
Our service is a little different to some others you may come across. That’s because Well by Vertis provides:
- Initial medical assessments to determine suitability for the treatment
- Regular video consultations with UK-registered GPs or specialist nurses
- Ongoing support to address concerns, manage side effects, and track progress
- A focus on overall wellbeing, including nutrition and mental health guidance
Weight loss injections can be a powerful tool for weight management, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. We’re here to help you use them safely, to achieve your desired results in a way that’s maintainable and healthy.
If you’d like to find out more, please contact us. Ready to begin? You can start your journey today by scheduling your initial consultation.