How to access weight-management support safely

Understanding prescription weight loss medication

Prescription weight loss medications work through various mechanisms to help you lose weight. These mechanisms may include:

• Appetite suppression: Certain medications can reduce your appetite, leading to decreased calorie intake

• Increased satiety: Some medications enhance feelings of fullness, keeping you satisfied for longer and reducing the urge to snack

• Reduced absorption: Some medications can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from food, leading to a calorie deficit

• Increased metabolism: Some medications may slightly boost your metabolism, enabling you to burn more calories at rest

Which prescription weight loss treatments are available in the UK?

In 2023, the UK Government put a focus on increasing access to the newest and most effective weight loss medications.

Currently in the UK, prescription weight loss medications are available in the form of:

Wegovy

Wegovy (semaglutide) is an injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist medication. GLP-1 is a natural hormone that promotes feelings of fullness and regulates blood sugar. Wegovy works by mimicking the actions of GLP-1, leading to reduced appetite and potentially increased calorie burning.

Mounjaro

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is another injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist medication. Similar to Wegovy, Mounjaro helps manage weight by regulating appetite, promoting satiety, and potentially impacting metabolism.

Saxenda

Saxenda (liraglutide) is another injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist medication. Similar to Wegovy and Mounjaro, Saxenda works by mimicking GLP-1 to promote satiety, potentially impacting metabolism, and reducing cravings.

Xenical

Xenical (orlistat) is a gastrointestinal lipase inhibitor which promotes weight loss by decreasing the amount of dietary fat absorbed in the intestines. The decrease in dietary fat absorption reduces calorie intake. 

Who can access prescription weight loss treatments?

Prescription weight loss medications are not a one-size-fits-all solution, as it depends on a case-by-case basis. Generally, they are considered for individuals aged 18 to 75 who:

• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more (considered obese).

• Have a BMI of 27 or more (considered overweight) with a weight-related health condition.

• Have struggled to lose weight with lifestyle changes alone.

As mentioned, weight loss treatments are assessed on a case-by-case basis. The first port of call before considering prescription weight loss medications is to consult your doctor. They will assess your individual situation, including your weight, medical history, and current medications. Your doctor can discuss:

• The potential benefits and risks of prescription weight loss medications.

• Suitable medications based on your specific needs and health profile.

• Lifestyle changes to complement the medication for optimal results.

If you feel like you need independent advice, please consider our Online Doctor tool. Through this, you can receive information and recommendations from our registered healthcare professionals. If we assess that you would benefit from a weight loss treatment, we will be able to write you a prescription. 

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.

Weight loss treatment considerations

Prescription weight loss treatments aren’t magic and they require considerations before committing to taking them. Here are some key points to remember when exploring prescription weight-loss medications:

• Safety and side effects: No medication is without risks. Discuss potential side effects with your doctor and be aware that not every medication will suit you.

• Lifestyle changes are imperative: Prescription medications do not work on their own, they require a holistic lifestyle adjustment. A healthy diet and regular exercise are still essential for weight loss success and long-term weight management.

• Long-term commitment: Most medications require continuous use for optimal results. Discuss your commitment with your doctor and ensure realistic expectations.

Finding the right path to weight loss

Prescription weight loss medications can be valuable for weight management, but they should be approached with proper guidance. By consulting your doctor, understanding the available options, and prioritising a healthy lifestyle, you can make informed decisions for a safe and effective weight loss journey. If you would like to learn more about weight loss treatments, visit our blog which has helpful guides to all medications available. 

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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