Weight loss injections: what are they and how do they work?
23rd January 2025
The 2 commonest weight loss injection used in the UK are Mounjaro and Wegovy.
Mounjaro contains a medication called Tirzepatide and Wegovy contains a medication called Semaglutide.
Tirzepatide is a long-acting GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptor and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist and Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) analogue.
What does that mean?
Essentially both medications work by slowing gastric emptying, increasing insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity and suppressing glucagon secretion which has the effect of decreasing your appetite and making you feel fuller for longer.
Both medications have been shown to aid in significant weight loss and improved blood sugar control, reducing the risk of related complications.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c981044pgvyo
Things to consider:
Whilst we know these medications work it is important to consider if they are right for you.
Common side effects include nausea, indigestion and constipation and the medication can cause diverticular disease to become worse and also lead to haemorrhoids. Generally, these side effects diminish over time.
However, the morbidity and mortality associated with being obese are significant and being overweight has a significant effect on long term health.
By addressing both diabetes and obesity, these medications provide a holistic approach to better health.
Contact our surgery for more information.