Our clinical director, Shaw Somers featured on this morning on Monday 21st October answering Q&As around weight loss options and how to choose a provider. Clinical Services Manager and Bariatric Dietician at Streamline, George Hamlyn Williams, will explore what factors are important to consider when considering weight loss injections, as well as any potential side effects. By the end of this post, you should have a better understanding of whether weight loss injections are a safe option for you.
Many people are asking this question as they explore different weight loss methods. While there are many potential benefits to using weight loss injections, it is important to understand the potential risks associated with them. In this blog post, we will be discussing the safety of weight loss injections with a medical expert.
What are weight loss injections?
Weight loss injections are a type of treatment option for individuals looking to lose weight. These injections administer specific medications directly into the body through a needle, bypassing the digestive system. There are several types of weight loss injections available on the market today, with hundreds more in various stages of clinical trials. The first weight loss injection licenced in the UK was the daily Saxenda, back in January 2017. More recently, in September 2023, the weekly injection Wegovy (also known as Ozempic® when prescribed for Type 2 Diabetes, but has been prescribed off-licence by some doctors for weight loss) was launched. This year, the newest injection, Mounjaro, also weekly, was launched. All these medications work by suppressing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, and regulating blood sugar levels. Which leads to weight loss over time when combined with a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise.
Weight loss injections offer several potential benefits for those struggling with weight management. They can help individuals reach their weight loss goals more efficiently, especially when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Additionally, they can be a viable option for those who have not seen success with other weight loss methods.
However, it is important to consider the safety aspect of weight loss injections. While these medications have been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and deemed safe for use, they are not without potential side effects.
Potential benefits of weight loss injections
Weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide) have gained popularity as a possible solution for those struggling with obesity. These injections work by suppressing appetite, increasing metabolism, and aiding in weight loss.
One potential benefit of weight loss injections is their ability to promote significant and sustained weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that these injections, when used as prescribed, can lead to substantial weight loss of up to 22.5% of body weight in just a few months. This is especially beneficial for individuals who have tried other weight loss methods without success.
Furthermore, weight loss injections may also have positive effects on blood sugar control and overall cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that these injections can improve blood glucose levels, reduce insulin resistance, and lower the risk of developing diabetes or heart disease. Another advantage of weight loss injections is their convenience. Unlike other weight loss methods that require strict dieting or excessive exercise, you can easily administer these injections at home without making significant lifestyle changes. This makes them a convenient option for individuals with busy schedules or those who have difficulty adhering to traditional weight loss programs.
However, it is important to note that weight loss injections are not a magical solution. In the clinical trials mentioned above, patients had regular support from trained healthcare professionals such as dietitians and were encouraged to eat a well-balanced healthy diet and regular exercise. No clinical trials have been done where patients received no support. As such, weight loss injections should used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise for the best results. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss injection regimen to ensure it is safe and suitable for individual circumstances.
Are weight loss injections safe?
The answer is not a straightforward one. It depends on the type of weight loss injection and your medical history. You should use these injections only under the supervision of a healthcare professional and after thoroughly considering your health history and any potential risks.
In the UK, all medications must go through a strict process to be licensed, which involves clinical trials where adverse events and side effects are reported and documented. This information is then listed in the patient information leaflet that accompanies every medication, including weight loss injections.
Always read the leaflet carefully to ensure you understand the side effects, and remember that no drug is completely risk-free. However, in the UK, every effort is made to ensure it is as safe as possible.
Like any medication, weight loss injections come with potential side effects and risks. These include nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhoea. There is also a potential for an increased risk of pancreatitis and gallstones in rare cases. Additionally, weight loss injections should not be seen as a “quick fix” for weight loss and should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and regular exercise. Without these, the weight lost is more likely to be muscle rather than fat. This can result in low energy, weakness and lowering of metabolic rate. However, the most recently licenced medication, Mounjaro, has been shown to result in greater fat loss vs muscle compared with Saxenda and Wegovy.
Before considering weight loss injections, it is important to consult with your doctor and discuss the potential benefits and risks. They will be able to provide guidance on whether weight loss injections are a safe and appropriate option for you.
Factors to consider before using weight loss injections
Medical history
It is essential to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before opting for weight loss injections. Certain medical conditions or medications may interact with weight loss injections and cause adverse effects.
Weight loss goals
You should use weight loss injections in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. It is crucial to have realistic goals and understand that injections are not a magic solution for weight loss.
Cost
Weight loss injections can be expensive, and insurance may not cover them. It is important to factor in the cost before making a decision.
Lifestyle changes
Use weight loss injections as a tool to support lifestyle changes, not as a replacement for them. It’s important to commit to making sustainable lifestyle changes for long-term weight loss success.
Potential side effects
Weight loss injections may have side effects, including nausea, diarrhoea, and headache. It is crucial to understand the potential risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider before use.
Overall, weight loss injections can be safe and effective for weight loss when used appropriately. It is crucial to discuss all factors with your healthcare provider and make an informed decision.
Streamline’s weight loss medication programme
Unlike other providers of weight loss medication, Streamline is owned and led by a team of weight loss surgeons with decades of experience in the field, bringing a unique perspective to weight loss treatment. Our deep understanding of weight management and metabolic health allows us to offer the best possible care and weight loss solutions, one of them being our weight loss medication programme.
What is included in our weight loss medication programme?
- Breakthrough weight loss medication
- Access to our health app, to track and monitor your progress
- 1:1 coaching and support from our team of experts
- Eco friendly, insulated packaging
If you’re interested in finding out more and to see if you’re eligible, please fill out our online assessment form.
