Who is eligible for weight loss injections?

Who is eligible for weight loss injections?

You may be prescribed weight loss medicine if you have certain health conditions that have not improved with lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise alone.

There are currently four types of weight loss injections approved for use in the UK.

These are:

• Orlistat - taken as a capsule, it blocks about a third of the fat you consume from being absorbed.

• Liraglutide (also known as Saxenda) - a daily injection that helps you feel fuller for longer and reduces hunger.

• Semaglutide (also known as Wegovy) - a weekly injection that promotes fullness and curbs your appetite.

• Tirzepatide (also known as Mounjaro) - a weekly injection that helps reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness.

Who shouldn't use weight loss injections?

You should never take weight loss medicine unless it has been prescribed by your doctor and, in some cases, your pharmacist. They can assess whether it is an appropriate treatment for you.

There are several important factors to consider before starting weight loss medicine. Depending on your health and circumstances, you may be more susceptible to certain side effects, which could make these medicines unsafe and lead to serious health consequences.

Dr Hazel Parkinson, a GP based in Long Itchington, UK, explains that weight loss medicines are only prescribed to patients who meet the outlined criteria.

She says: "Weight loss injections are not a quick fix, and strict criteria exist for good reason. These medicines can be life-changing for the right person, but they're not suitable for everyone."

Lifestyle changes vs weight loss injections

You should always talk to your doctor before considering any type of weight loss medicine. Healthcare professionals are the only people qualified to determine whether weight loss medicines are appropriate for you.

As mentioned above, weight loss medicine may be prescribed if lifestyle changes have not led to improvements in your weight and health. Your doctor will first recommend practical steps to help you lose weight - such as improving your diet and increasing your physical activity.

Beyond medical advice, they can connect you with local weight loss groups for support or arrange sessions with a qualified trainer through a local active health team.

Are weight loss injections available on the NHS?

If, despite focused efforts to improve your diet and exercise routine, you haven’t lost significant weight, you can discuss your situation with your doctor for further options.

Weight loss medicine on the NHS requires a referral from your doctor, a weight management service, or a specialist clinic, and is subject to strict eligibility criteria. You may not be able to begin taking weight loss medicine immediately due to waiting lists and the urgency of your case compared to others.

Alternatively, you can opt for private treatment, through clinics or pharmacists, which offers quicker access to consultations but typically involves higher costs.

Healthy habits for people on weight loss medicine

Starting weight loss medicine can be an option if traditional weight loss methods have not proved effective despite consistent effort.

However, it’s important to continue following a healthy diet and aim for the recommended 150 minutes of exercise each week.

Medicines like Mounjaro and orlistat require you to follow a balanced, reduced-calorie diet and maintain regular exercise both before starting treatment and throughout - as well as after - to support lasting results.

Some side effects of these medicines can worsen if you don’t monitor your diet. For example, orlistat may cause bowel-related issues if your diet is too high in fat.

Your progress during the first few months of weight loss treatment will be closely monitored and assessed by a healthcare professional, depending on the medicine you’re taking. Based on how your body responds, your healthcare provider will guide you through the next steps in your weight loss journey.