What are weight loss injections?
They’re prescription-only, once-weekly injections that act on incretin hormones (GLP-1 or both GIP+GLP-1) to reduce hunger and cravings and support clinically-managed weight loss alongside diet and activity.
These injections mimic gut hormones that signal fullness to the brain and help regulate blood-sugar responses to meals, leading to reduced appetite and fewer cravings. They’re intended for long-term use with lifestyle changes (reduced-calorie diet, increased physical activity).
Large clinical trials cited by UK providers show meaningful average weight loss when used with lifestyle change—around 15% of body weight at ~68 weeks for GLP-1 therapy and up to ~21% at ~72 weeks for dual GIP/GLP-1 therapy (results vary by dose and individual).
Weight loss injections side effects
The most common effects are gastrointestinal (for example nausea, diarrhoea/constipation, tummy cramps or bloating), usually settling as treatment continues. Patients are advised to read the Patient Information Leaflet and seek medical advice for severe or persistent symptoms (e.g., ongoing vomiting, unexplained abdominal pain, severe allergic reactions).
Are weight loss injections safe
They’re clinician-prescribed POMs and not right for everyone. Typical exclusions include pregnancy or breastfeeding and certain conditions (e.g., a history of medullary thyroid cancer/MEN2, severe gastrointestinal disease, or pancreatitis). Suitability is assessed case-by-case, including potential medicine interactions and ongoing monitoring.
Weight loss injections cost
Publicly listed programme pricing from UK providers shows monthly costs typically starting around £169 and rising with dose and programme inclusions, with some higher doses advertised up to ~£299/month. (Figures shown here are drawn from provider pages without naming brands.)
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