Weight loss injections have transformed the treatment of obesity and weight-related health conditions.
Originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes, these medications are now widely used to support healthy, sustainable weight loss in suitable individuals.
At AS Allure, our medical team provides personalised assessments to determine whether treatment is appropriate, alongside ongoing support to help you achieve long-term success.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 medications are prescription medicines that mimic a naturally occurring hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).
After eating, your body releases GLP-1 to help regulate appetite, digestion and blood sugar levels. These medications work by enhancing those natural effects, helping people eat less while maintaining better control over hunger.
Some newer medications also activate a second hormone called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), which may further improve weight loss and blood sugar regulation.
How Do Weight Loss Injections Work?
GLP-1 medications support weight loss through several mechanisms:
01
They Reduce Appetite
Many people notice they feel satisfied after eating smaller portions, making it easier to reduce calorie intake without constantly feeling hungry.
02
They Increase Fullness
Food remains in the stomach for longer, helping you feel fuller between meals and reducing the urge to snack.
03
They Reduce Food Noise
Many patients describe a significant reduction in constant thoughts about food, cravings and emotional eating.
04
They Improve Blood Sugar Control
By helping regulate insulin and blood glucose levels, these medications can reduce large fluctuations in blood sugar that may contribute to hunger and cravings.
Which Medications Are Available?
Ozempic®
Ozempic contains semaglutide and is licensed in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Although it is not licensed specifically for weight loss in the UK, weight reduction is a recognised effect of the medication, and it has been used for weight management in certain clinical circumstances.
Which Medications Are Available?
Ozempic®
Ozempic contains semaglutide and is licensed in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Although it is not licensed specifically for weight loss in the UK, weight reduction is a recognised effect of the medication, and it has been used for weight management in certain clinical circumstances.
Wegovy®
Wegovy also contains semaglutide, but at higher doses specifically licensed for chronic weight management.
It is prescribed alongside improvements in diet, physical activity and lifestyle for eligible patients with obesity or those who are overweight with weight-related medical conditions.
Mounjaro®
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which works on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.
By targeting two hormone pathways, clinical studies have shown it can produce substantial weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.
Rybelsus®
Rybelsus contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in Ozempic® and Wegovy®, but is taken as a once-daily tablet rather than a weekly injection.
Like other GLP-1 medications, it works by mimicking the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone to help regulate appetite, increase feelings of fullness, slow stomach emptying and improve blood sugar control. To ensure optimal absorption, Rybelsus must be taken:
- First thing in the morning on an empty stomach
- With no more than 120 mL (approximately half a glass) of plain water
- At least 30 minutes before eating, drinking (other than water) or taking any other oral medications
Weight loss injections may be appropriate for adults who:
- Have struggled to achieve sustainable weight loss through diet and exercise alone
- Are committed to making long-term lifestyle changes
Treatment is not suitable for everyone, which is why a thorough medical assessment is essential before prescribing.
Weight loss injections are powerful tools, but they are not a replacement for healthy habits.
For the best long-term outcomes, treatment should be combined with:
- A balanced, nutritious diet
- Adequate protein intake
- Regular physical activity
- Resistance training to help preserve muscle mass
- Good sleep
- Stress management
Developing sustainable habits during treatment can make maintaining weight loss easier in the future.
Like all prescription medicines, GLP-1 medications can cause side effects.
The most common include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Reduced appetite
- Feeling full quickly
These symptoms are often mild to moderate and tend to improve as the body adjusts to treatment. Doses are usually increased gradually to help minimise side effects.
Your prescribing clinician will discuss the potential benefits and risks with you before starting treatment.
Lose Weight Safely
Our Weight Loss Programme
Successful weight management is about far more than simply prescribing medication. Our aim is to help you lose weight safely while improving your long-term health and wellbeing. Our medical weight loss programme includes:
Book a Consultation
If you’re considering medical weight loss treatment, our experienced clinicians can assess your suitability, answer your questions and create a personalised plan tailored to your goals.
Together, we’ll help you achieve sustainable weight loss with evidence-based treatment and ongoing medical support.
