Understanding Weight Loss Injections

Weight loss medication has been around since the 1940s, however there has been a rapid increase in demand for weight loss injections, coinciding with the launch of mainstream weight loss injections entering the market.

In a recent survey, of those who were asked, 22% said they would like to use weight loss injections.

Before considering this method of weight loss its important to understand what the injections are, how they work, and the steps you should take to ensure you monitor your overall health whilst taking the injections.

Weight loss injections have emerged as a promising tool for individuals struggling with obesity or excess weight, and have received significant media coverage of late. These medications are designed to complement lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, by targeting physiological mechanisms involved in hunger, satiety, and energy regulation.

The most common class of weight loss injections includes glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. 

Ozempic (semaglutide) is perhaps the most well-known, but Ozempic itself is currently only licensed for diabetics. 

Wegovy is another form of Semaglutide licensed for weight loss, and Saxenda (liraglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are other alternatives. Originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, these drugs have demonstrated significant efficacy in promoting weight loss.

GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the action of a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which is released after eating. They work by:

• Reducing appetite:

GLP-1 receptor agonists delay gastric emptying, leading to prolonged feelings of fullness. This reduces caloric intake and curbs overeating.

• Enhancing satiety (feeling full):

They act on brain centres involved in appetite regulation, diminishing hunger.

• Modulating insulin secretion:

These weight loss injections improve glucose metabolism, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance or prediabetes.

Weight loss injections are not intended as a first-line treatment for weight management but rather as an adjunct to comprehensive lifestyle interventions. They may be considered for individuals who:

• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater (classified as obese).

• Have a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnoea.

• Have struggled to achieve or maintain weight loss through diet and exercise alone.

• Exhibit insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome.

• Require a structured and medically supervised approach to weight management.

Before prescribing weight loss injections, healthcare providers conduct a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. This helps identify individuals who may benefit most while ruling out any contraindications. 

As things stand, NHS GPs are unable to prescribe these medications, but it’s possible that this may change in the future.

• Significant Weight Loss:

Clinical trials have demonstrated that individuals using GLP-1 receptor agonists can achieve an average weight loss of 10-15% of their initial body weight.

• Improved Metabolic Health:

These medications can improve blood sugar control, reduce cholesterol levels, and lower blood pressure.

• Support for Sustainable Lifestyle Changes:

By reducing hunger and enhancing satiety, weight loss injections can make it easier to adhere to a calorie deficit.

• Convenience:

Most injections are self-administered and require only once-daily or weekly dosing, depending on the medication.

• Side Effects:

Common side effects of using weight loss injections include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. These symptoms often subside with time but can be bothersome.

• Potential Serious Risks:

Though rare, some individuals may experience serious side effects such as pancreatitis.

• Cost and access:

Obesity services on the NHS are over-subscribed currently and there may be a significant wait for treatment. Accessing the medication privately can incur significant cost.

• Dependency Risk:

Some individuals may become reliant on the medication for weight maintenance, or neglect lifestyle changes in favour of the medication.

• Not Suitable for Everyone:

Contraindications include certain medical conditions, pregnancy, and lactation.

Monitoring is important to ensure the safety and effectiveness of weight loss injections.

Medical Assessments that may be recommended:

Initial tests:

• Weight and BMI: To establish a starting point and track progress.

• Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Important for individuals with cardiovascular risk factors.

• Laboratory Tests: Includes glucose levels, HbA1c, lipid profile, and liver function tests.
  

Ongoing Monitoring:

• Weight Loss Progress: Regular weigh-ins help assess the efficacy of the treatment.

• Side Effects: Monitoring for gastrointestinal symptoms, signs of pancreatitis or gallbladder issues.

Psychological Support:

Emotional and behavioural factors play a significant role in weight management. You may be recommended counselling or therapy to address underlying issues and reinforce healthy habits.

Blood Tests:

• Glucose and HbA1c: To evaluate improvements in glycaemic control.

• Liver Function Tests: To rule out drug-induced hepatotoxicity.

For a more comprehensive review of your heath whilst you are taking weight loss injections, we recommend taking the Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro blood test.

If weight loss plateaus or side effects persist, healthcare providers may:

• Adjust the dosage.

• Switch to an alternative medication.

• Reassess lifestyle factors, such as diet and physical activity.

Weight loss injections represent a valuable tool for individuals struggling with obesity or related health conditions. 

By targeting physiological pathways that regulate hunger and satiety, these medications can promote significant and sustainable weight loss when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. 

However, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution and come with potential risks and limitations. Some individuals will experience severe side effects or reducing effect of the medication over time. 

There is also the risk that patients neglect lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet and exercise in favour of simply relying on medication.