With the recent developments in treatments to help with weight loss, we are seeing an increase in numbers of our patients enquiring about weight loss injections. These injections promise to be faster and more effective than more traditional weight loss methods and we have often found our patients asking for our opinion as they attempt to source weight loss injections either from online pharmacies, or more worryingly, from sources that are not registered healthcare providers. With an array of options available, and the varying opinions on their safety and efficiency, a critical question arises: Are weight loss injections worth it? In the following blog post, we will delve into the pros and cons of weight loss injections to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Weight Loss Injections
There are a few types of weight loss injections which operate in similar ways to achieve weight loss. The most common types of weight loss injections are:
- Ozempic (semaglutide) acts by mimicking the hormone GLP-1. This hormone prompts insulin release in the body and signals a feeling of fullness and reduced appetite to the brain. Ozempic also slows how quickly food travels through your body which helps you feel fuller for longer. It was originally developed as a treatment for diabetes to reduce blood sugar spikes. This also helps reduce appetite as there is less variation in blood sugar levels.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) also mimics the GLP-1 hormone but additionally works by mimicking another hormone called GIP. It works in a very similar way to Ozempic, but the mimicking of the additional hormone has made it more effective in causing weight loss.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) helps reduce food intake by also mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to lower hunger stimulation in your brain and slow down the digestion of food to make you feel fuller for longer.
These treatments are not licensed for anyone with a BMI (Body Mass Index) under 27. Our pharmacists can help you calculate your BMI during your face-to-face consultation. Some people with a BMI of 27 – 30 may be eligible for treatment if they have certain other medical conditions, but in general, these injections are only recommended for those with a BMI over 30. These treatments can be incredibly dangerous for people with low BMIs which is why a consultation with a medical professional beforehand to assess your suitability for the treatment is important.
Pros of Weight Loss Injections
- Effective Appetite Control
Many users have reported a significant reduction in their appetite, making it easier for them to stick to a calorie-controlled diet as part of their weight management plan. - Clinically Proven Results
Injections such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Saxenda are backed by clinical studies that show their success in substantial weight loss when paired with a healthier and balanced lifestyle. - Convenience
Traditional weight loss methods such as healthier eating and more frequent exercise can often be difficult for those of us who live busy lifestyles such as working in an office 9-5 or raising young children; therefore, injections can be an easier and more manageable approach.
Cons of Weight Loss Injections
- Side Effects
Some people may experience fatigue, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, or long-term gastrointestinal issues when taking weight loss injections. - Counterfeit Drugs
Unfortunately, there have been a growing number of reports of criminals selling fake products and members of the public becoming ill after obtaining what they thought was a weight loss injection through an illegitimate supplier. Fake batches of the injection Ozempic have been seized in the UK in 2023 and 2024, as well as in the USA and Brazil. It is important to only take weight loss injections that are prescribed by a trained medical professional to ensure that you are not administering counterfeit drugs to your body. - Commitment
Weight loss injections require a long-term commitment to take them on a regular basis, and depending on the type of injection, may need to be accompanied by significant lifestyle changes in order to work successfully.
How to Stay Safe While Using Weight Loss Injections
The only way to ensure that you are safely using weight loss injections is to speak to a trained medical professional. This will ensure you are getting the right advice and the most suitable type of injection for your unique health profile.
- Your pharmacist will discuss with you the pros and cons of these types of treatments and will consider your circumstances including your general health, your lifestyle, and any other medication you might be taking before recommending the right treatment for you.
- Use a General Pharmaceutical Society registered community pharmacy to guarantee that the product will be sourced from a licensed wholesaler and will be stored safely and legally before it is prescribed to you. This also guarantees the authenticity of the treatment.
- Please complete a face to face consultation with your pharmacist who can support you in how to safely administer the treatment, advise what to expect during the course and how to store your medicine.
- You will receive ongoing monthly support from your community pharmacist who can adjust your dose accordingly in response to your weight loss throughout the course of your treatment.
While weight loss injections can be a valuable tool for those struggling with weight loss, they are not a magical solution and require a lot of thought and care in their approach, including medical guidance, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, financial investment. Ultimately, the decision to use weight loss injections should be made based on an evaluation of their pros and cons and a discussion with a healthcare professional about your own personal health journey.
Remember, weight loss is a journey, and finding the right path requires patience, persistence, and making informed decisions. Your local pharmacy is there to support you all the way. Visit our website to find out how our weight management services can assist you on your weight loss journey.
