Weight loss medications: Fact vs fiction

What are weight loss medications?

Firstly, weight loss medications work in various ways depending on their active ingredients. Some common types include:

• GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: These injectable medications mimic a natural gut hormone called Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), which slows down stomach emptying, increases satiety (fullness), and reduces blood sugar levels. Liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are examples

• Lipase Inhibitors: These medications block the absorption of some dietary fat, allowing it to pass through the digestive system without being digested. Orlistat (Xenical) is the most common example of a lipase inhibitor medication

• Appetite suppressant: The active substances bupropion and naltroxone (Mysimba) affects the part of the brain that controls appetite and energy to reduce the amount of food needed to feel full

Common myths about weight loss treatments

We’re going to take a look at common misconceptions about weight loss drugs so that you know what to expect from treatments.

They are a ‘magic solution’

Some people believe that weight loss medications are a miracle solution for losing weight fast. While medications can be a valuable tool, they are not necessarily always a quick fix. It is important to remain consistent in taking the medication, but also look at your diet and exercise regime. Weight loss medications alone are not the most effective method of losing weight, but a combined routine is what makes the difference. 

You can eat what you like

There is a common misconception that as long as you are taking your weight loss medication, then this means you can eat whatever you like alongside it. As described previously, the people who see noticeable weight changes are those who stick to a healthy, calorie-restricted diet and exercise. If you eat fatty, processed foods, then you are not going to see as significant results as someone who follows a healthy diet.  

All weight loss medications are dangerous

Medications must undergo rigorous testing before they are deemed safe enough for the general public to use them. Like all medications, weight loss medications can have side effects, but the most common are gastrointestinal and are generally manageable. This doesn’t mean that more serious side effects don’t happen, but it is less common. Your doctor will assess your medical history, such as through our online consultation, to determine that you are suitable to take the medication. If you do experience any side effects, it is important to discuss these with your doctor as it may be possible to reduce your dose whilst you get used to the drug in your body.

You need to be severely obese to take weight loss medication

In the UK, obesity is usually measured by Body Mass Index (BMI). Your BMI is categorised as follows:

• Below 18.5 –  underweight range

• 18.5 to 24.9 – healthy weight range

• 25 to 29.9 – overweight range

• 30 to 39.9 – obese range

• 40 or above – severely obese range

Weight loss medications are suitable for individuals with a BMI over 30 or those with a BMI over 27 with a weight-related health condition. It is up to your doctor to determine if you are suitable and to prescribe you a treatment plan.

Weight loss drugs only work short-term

There's a misconception that weight loss medications only offer short-term benefits. Recent studies, such as one published in May 2024, showed how in patients treated with semaglutide, weight loss continued over 65 weeks and was sustained for up to 4 years. Studies like these provide helpful support for weight loss medications and their efficacy over time.

If you, or someone you know, has a BMI lower than 25 and is trying to lose weight, they may have an eating disorder. Please see this article on supporting someone with an eating disorder for more advice. 

What about the facts?

Some basic facts about weight loss medications include:

• Weight loss medications are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and for long-term success, medications must be combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise

• There are many research studies to support each type of weight loss drug, showing how the medications influenced greater weight loss than a placebo

• There isn't just one type of weight loss medication. Medications work in various ways,  such as suppressing appetite or slowing down digestion, so your doctor can choose a medication that suits your individual needs

Ready for your weight loss journey?

If you’re interested in discovering whether you’re suitable for weight loss medications, get started today by filling out our online consultation at Pharmacy2U. Our doctors will assess your personal needs and goals and can offer prescription weight loss pills or injections to help with your weight management journey if you’re suitable. 

You could also make a start by tracking your weight with the range of digital weighing scales and body fat monitors for home use, available from Pharmacy2U.

Handy links & resources

For more weight management tips, advice, and tools, use these handy resources:

• Find out about our clinically proven weight loss programmes

• Calculate your BMI - free online tool

• Diet vs exercise. What matters most for weight loss?

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