All About Weight Loss Drugs: How They Work and Who Can Use Them in the UK
Weight loss drugs, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, have become increasingly popular for people looking to lose weight when diet and exercise alone aren’t enough. These medications work by altering appetite and metabolism to support long-term weight management. However, in the UK, these medications are regulated and only available under certain circumstances. Understanding how they work, their effectiveness, and the guidelines for their use can help you make an informed decision if you’re considering these options.
What Are Weight Loss Drugs?
Weight loss drugs are prescription medications designed to help people lose weight by altering their body’s response to hunger and food intake. They are typically recommended for those with:
- - Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above (classified as obese), or
- - A BMI of 27 or above with associated health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
- Some of the most well-known weight loss medications currently available or coming soon in the UK include:
- - Wegovy (Semaglutide): A GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps reduce appetite and calorie intake.
- - Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): A dual agonist that targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, affecting hunger and energy regulation.
- - Saxenda (Liraglutide): Another GLP-1 receptor agonist that has been on the market for longer and is approved for weight loss.
Each of these medications requires a prescription from a healthcare professional and must be part of a broader treatment plan, which includes dietary changes, increased physical activity, and regular follow-ups.
How Do Weight Loss Drugs Work?
Most weight loss medications, like Wegovy and Mounjaro, act on specific pathways in the brain to regulate hunger and fullness:
- - GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: These drugs mimic a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1), which targets appetite regulation in the brain and delays gastric emptying, making you feel full longer.
- - Dual GIP and GLP-1 Agonists (e.g., Mounjaro): Mounjaro is unique because it works on two receptors (GIP and GLP-1), which can lead to even greater weight loss results compared to single-receptor medications.
This process not only helps reduce food cravings but also supports insulin sensitivity, which can be beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes.
UK Regulations: Who Can Use These Medications?
In the UK, the use of weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Saxenda is strictly controlled. They are only prescribed by healthcare providers and recommended when:
- - Diet and Exercise Alone Are Not Enough: If lifestyle changes haven’t led to significant weight loss.
- - Medical Necessity: If a person’s weight poses a health risk, such as increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, or diabetes.
1. Wegovy received approval from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in 2023, but access to it is still limited to those meeting specific criteria. 2. Wegovy is available on the NHS only for people with a BMI over 35 and at least one weight-related comorbidity.
3. Mounjaro is still under review for its weight loss application in the UK and is currently prescribed mainly for managing Type 2 diabetes.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
Like all medications, weight loss drugs come with potential side effects. Common side effects include:
- - Nausea
- - Vomiting
- - Diarrhoea or Constipation
- - Abdominal Pain
- These side effects are often mild and decrease over time, but it’s important to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor for any adverse effects.
- Additionally, these drugs are not recommended for everyone. They should not be used by individuals with a history of:
- - Eating Disorders (e.g., anorexia or bulimia)
- - Severe Gastrointestinal Diseases
- - Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
Choosing the Right Weight Loss Treatment through CompareHealth
At CompareHealth, we connect you to reputable clinics and healthcare providers across the UK that offer the latest weight loss treatments, including Wegovy, Mounjaro, and more.
Use our platform to:
- - Find Clinics That Prescribe Weight Loss Medication: Search by location to find providers near you who specialise in obesity management and offer these treatments.
- - Compare Pricing and Availability: View detailed pricing information and check availability for consultations and prescriptions.
- - Book Online: Book appointments quickly and easily without the hassle of waiting for a referral.
