Doctors explain everything you need to know about the latest obesity medications
You may know them as weight-loss injections, gut hormone medications, incretin-based therapies, GLP-1/GIP, GLP-1, semaglutide, tirzepatide, Wegovy, Mounjaro or Ozempic. These new obesity medications have been making waves in the mainstream media for their potential to help people manage their weight more effectively. With a hive of misinformation already out there, our in-house experts, Dr. Laura Falvey and Dr. Claudia Ashton, are here to give you the facts about these specialist medications. They will cover what they are, how they work, who they’re for, common side effects and much more.
First off, what is obesity?
Before we talk about obesity medications, it’s important to outline what obesity is and what happens inside the body.
Obesity is a chronic medical condition where excess adipose tissue (or body fat) leads to poor health. While adipose tissue has important roles within the body, having a significantly increased amount can lead to health risks in individuals with obesity. Obesity isn’t solely determined by weight, so although BMI scores can give a good indication of whether your weight is healthy, a clinical assessment is recommended for an accurate diagnosis.
Obesity is linked to various chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, dementia, multiple different types of cancer, joint pains, poor mental health and issues with fertility. Certain obesity treatments, like bariatric surgery, have shown that managing obesity and reducing excess weight and body fat leads to wider health benefits, including improvements in conditions like Type 2 diabetes and other weight-related conditions.
Let’s talk gut hormones
Gut hormones are naturally produced by our digestive system, helping to regulate how full we feel after eating and balance our blood sugar levels.
Two key hormones in this process are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). When we eat, GLP-1 and GIP are released in response to food entering the gut. These hormones regulate our blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin (a hormone that lowers blood sugar) and by making insulin more effective. GLP-1 also reduces other hormones that raise blood sugar levels, as well as delaying stomach emptying.
For over a decade, medications that mimic these hormones have been used to treat Type 2 diabetes, but now they’re also being prescribed to treat obesity.
So, what are gut hormone medications and how do they work?
Gut hormone medications mimic the effects of naturally occurring hormones in our body which make us feel full after eating and regulate our blood sugar levels. These medications help people living with Type 2 diabetes and obesity treat and manage their condition by making them feel fuller for longer, which helps reduce their appetite. Some gut hormone medications can be taken orally, but they are most effective for weight loss when injected once weekly.
Mounjaro vs Wegovy vs Ozempic - what's the difference?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Wegovy and Ozempic (both semaglutide) are the brand names for some of the gut hormone medications currently available in the UK. These medications all work in similar ways, but with different gut hormone combinations, dosages and clinical results. It's crucial to consult with a doctor to determine the most suitable medication based on your needs and medical history.
Who’s eligible for obesity medications?
Gut hormone medications (like Wegovy and Mounjaro) may be considered for people living with obesity who are looking to reduce their weight where diet and lifestyle interventions alone have not helped them manage their condition.
Obesity medications are prescription-only and should be prescribed by a doctor following a comprehensive assessment, taking into account your age, BMI and whether you have any other obesity-related conditions.
To find out if you’re eligible for Roczen’s medication-assisted programme, take our free online assessment. Once you join, you’ll have a 40-minute consultation with one of our in-house doctors who will confirm your eligibility and, if appropriate, prescribe the most suitable medication alongside a personalised nutrition and lifestyle plan. (If you’re deemed ineligible at any stage, you’ll receive a full refund.)
Please note: Unfortunately, GLP-1s or GLP-1/GIPs cannot be prescribed to anyone with certain medical conditions, including active gallbladder disease, a history of pancreatitis or a personal or family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) or medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). It is vital to discuss any known medical conditions and medications you are taking with your doctor so they can assess whether these medications are suitable for you.
How effective are these medications for weight loss?
Clinical trials have proven the effectiveness of Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for the treatment of overweight and obesity. This research shows that patients on Mounjaro could lose over 20% of their initial body weight after 52 weeks (with lifestyle support). Patients on Wegovy could lose over 15% of their initial body weight after 68 weeks (with lifestyle support). Patients on the Roczen Plus programme are achieving greater results than those shown in clinical trials.
Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I need to make with obesity medications?
To get the most out of obesity medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro, it’s important to adopt a healthy lifestyle. That means eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, doing regular physical activity and monitoring your blood sugar levels alongside.
Roczen’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Barbara McGowan, has co-authored groundbreaking research confirming that treating patients with GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro and Wegovy) alongside lifestyle interventions is associated with substantial and sustained weight loss.1
Specific dietary recommendations for patients on obesity medications include eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. These foods can help manage blood sugar levels and support overall health. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water (we recommend 2.5 litres) throughout the day is essential for optimal bodily functions.
Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can also have numerous benefits for managing diabetes, losing weight and improving insulin sensitivity. Activities like brisk walks, cycling, swimming or strength training can help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
Our clinically proven Roczen Plus programme combines the latest obesity medications alongside targeted diet interventions to support safe and effective weight loss and maintenance. Each patient receives expert guidance on eating behaviours, nutrition and fitness from our in-house team of specialist doctors, nurses, dietitians, psychologists and mentors, tailored to your individual needs and goals.
How do I know what dose to take?
You should not self-prescribe your obesity medication or dosage. It's important to have a thorough medical assessment by a doctor to discuss these medications, as they’ll be able to advise if they’re suitable for you and, if so, which is the most appropriate based on your health history and goals.
Different medications come in various strengths and dosages, so your doctor will work with you to establish the right dose for your needs and monitor your progress regularly. At Roczen, we usually start our patients on the lowest dose and gradually increase it based on how they respond and any side effects. For example, Wegovy and Mounjaro suggest increasing the dose every four weeks, but not everyone needs to up their dose that frequently or reach the highest dose to achieve best results.
How long would I need to be on these medications?
How long you should stay on these medications varies from person to person, based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. Clinical research shows that patients on Mounjaro could lose over 20% of their initial body weight after 52 weeks (with lifestyle support).2 Patients on Wegovy could lose over 15% of their initial body weight after 68 weeks (with lifestyle support).3
In some cases, Wegovy, Mounjaro and other obesity medications may be considered for long-term use based on your individual needs and treatment goals. On the Roczen Plus programme, patients have a monthly video check-in with a doctor to monitor their response to the medication over time, adjust the treatment plan as needed and advise on expected treatment times.
What are the potential side effects?
Like any medication, GLP-1/GIP and GLP-1 medications can have side effects. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and decreased appetite. These side effects are usually mild and tend to improve over time. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it's important to contact your GP practice or your Roczen doctor (if you are a Roczen Plus patient) for further guidance.
How much do they cost? Can I get them on the NHS?
Roczen’s medication-assisted programme, Roczen Plus, starts from £195 per month, depending on your recommended medication and dosage.
This price includes:
- Doctor-prescribed weekly doses of medication delivered discreetly to your door
- 1-1 guidance from by our expert team of doctors, nurses, dietitians and psychologists
- Monthly check-ins with your dedicated clinical team
- Personalised diet and exercise plan
- HbA1c blood test to assess your diabetes risk
- Exclusive access to the Roczen app, where you can join community support groups, find over 300 healthy recipes, read clinician-authored blogs, follow all-level fitness guides
- And so much more!
Obesity medications can only be prescribed on the NHS by specialist weight-management services, so in order to obtain them through the NHS you’d need a referral from your GP. Unfortunately, access to these services varies widely, with many areas across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland either lacking any specialist weight-management service altogether or not offering medication as part of their treatment.
While online pharmacies may offer lower prices, they only dispense these medications and may not offer the clinical guidance needed to determine the appropriate medication and dosage for each individual patient.
How do I get started on obesity medications?
If you're interested in starting obesity medications, the first step is to discuss your suitability with a doctor. They can evaluate your individual eligibility for these medications, based on your medical history and preferences.
You can either visit your GP, who can let you know if there's a specialist weight-management clinic in your area that offers these medications. Or, if you're considering the Roczen Plus programme, you can start by taking our online assessment. If you’re eligible, you'll have a 40-minute consultation with one of our in-house doctors who will confirm your suitability for the programme and prescribe the right medication and dosage for you. (If you're deemed ineligible at any stage, you'll receive a full refund.)
We strongly advise against purchasing these medications without medical advice. A comprehensive assessment by a doctor is crucial to determine if these medications are right for you, taking into account your medical history, current conditions and any other medications you may be taking.
Medication-assisted weight loss from Roczen Plus
Roczen’s medical clinic is led by Professor Barbara McGowan, a lead investigator in multiple clinical trials involving pharmacotherapy for obesity, including GLP-1/GIP medications.
Our medication-assisted programme, Roczen Plus, introduces a range of targeted diet and lifestyle interventions alongside expert guidance on eating behaviours, nutrition and fitness to support safe and effective weight loss with GLP-1/GIP and GLP-1 medications.
A standout feature of the Roczen Plus programme for many of our patients is the exceptional support from our clinicians. Having a dedicated clinical team on hand to answer any questions, offer guidance and provide one-to-one support throughout their health journeys gives them the confidence and reassurance they need to get started and stay motivated.
We understand that weight management is not just about the numbers on the scale; it’s about overall wellbeing. That’s why we take a holistic approach, focussing on mental health, mood, sleep quality and other key health aspects which can affect or be affected by weight.. This comprehensive care ensures that every patient feels heard, supported and empowered to achieve their health goals with the support of our clinical team.
If you’re looking for an obesity medication provider, why should you choose Roczen?
Our digital weight-management programmes are designed and led by NHS doctors, nurses, dietitians and psychologists with specialist expertise in obesity, weight management and Type 2 diabetes, ensuring that our patients feel reassured every step of their journey.
Roczen is a clinical service regulated by the Care Quality Commission, operating at the highest standard of care in a safe and supportive environment. We are one of four providers recommended by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) to prescribe advanced weight-loss medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro.
With the most advanced and effective bespoke programmes, led by expert consultants who are leaders in their field, you can trust that you’ll receive exceptional service and unrivalled patient care.
To discover your eligibility for our medication-assisted weight-loss programmes, simply take our online health assessment.
References
1 Based on Novo Nordisk Clinical Trial
starting with Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
