Weight loss medication offers numerous benefits for individuals struggling with obesity, including significant weight reduction and improved overall health.
The Doctor Now team have recently been impressed with a newer injectable medication which has the ability to significantly reduce body weight. This reduction in weight can lead to a lower risk of developing obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, weight loss can improve mobility, reduce joint pain, and enhance overall physical endurance, making daily activities easier and more enjoyable.
What are weight loss injections, and how do they work?
This medication comes in a prescription only, once weekly self-injectable pen that is approved in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and weight loss. It works by mimicking GLP-1 and GIP hormones in the gut, helping you feel fuller for longer.
Are weight loss injections safe, and what are the common side effects?
The injectable we use is considered a safe medication, however as with all drugs there are some potential side effects. Common side effects are usually mild and can include constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, headaches, dizziness, fatigue and a dry mouth. Rarely, some patients have reported hair thinning. Severe side effects are thankfully rare; the most significant one is inflammation of the pancreas.
Another important side effect of the treatment is muscle mass loss. To mitigate this, we recommend doing regular strength training 3 to 4 times per week whilst on the treatment.
To minimise the effects of this medication, our GP’s will start patients on a lower dose (2.5mg per week) and gradually increase the dosage if required. Diet and lifestyle changes, such as drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep and eating smaller more regular meals can also help manage common side effects.
How much do weight loss injections cost?
How effective are weight loss injections?
Our medication has been proven to help patients lose up to 22.5% of their starting weight within 72 weeks. Patients can typically expect to lose around 10% of their body weight within the first 12 weeks of treatment.
How and when do you take weight loss injections?
This medication is a pre-filled self-injectable pen, meaning patients do not have to measure out the dose themselves. It is to be taken once a week, at the same time, on the same day. This ensures the medication can work effectively, help to reduce side effects and maintain the medication dose at the correct level.
It is recommended that the medication is injected into either the upper legs or the lower abdomen, where fat stores are higher. It’s important to rotate the injection site weekly to help avoid reactions around the injection site.
Can I drink alcohol or take antibiotics with weight loss injections?
This weight loss medication isn’t known to interact with alcohol, and you may well find your desire to drink alcohol is reduced whilst on treatment.
There are no contraindications for taking antibiotics and these injections. This medication can alter the absorption of certain medications (for example, the oral contraceptive pill) requiring extra precautions to be taken. Your doctor will be able to discuss this with you.
Any patients taking medication which can cause hypoglycaemia, such as insulin, usually require advice from a endocrinologist.
How should I store this weight loss medication, and for how long?
This medication should be kept in the fridge at 2°-8°C until opened.
Once the first dose has been administered, it can be kept for up to 30 days outside of the fridge but should not sit in temperatures outside of 30°C.
What foods should I avoid with weight loss injections?
There are no specific foods that you need to avoid whilst taking this medication.
If you have any further questions or would like to begin our Weight Loss Programme, please call us on 01494 410888 and one of our team will be delighted to assist.