Weight loss injections: what else you need to know
Weight loss injections have been making headlines and sparking conversations over dinner and at the hairdressers for some time now. You’ve probably heard of the brand names, Ozempic, Wegovy or Mounjaro so you might be wondering what’s the difference between them, how they work and whether they could be right for you.
The truth is, there’s a lot more to these “skinny jabs” than dramatic weight loss. While they can be life-changing and potentially lifesaving for some, they also come with side effects, considerations for long-term health and important questions about what happens when you stop taking them.
So, let's take a closer look at what else you need to know.
The main medications and how they work
There are two different drugs, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide which were originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes but are now being widely popularised due to their significant effects on weight loss.
Semaglutide (brand names: Wegovy)
Semaglutide is a synthetic form of the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) which regulates appetite. It reduces feelings of hunger, increases feelings of fullness and slows down stomach emptying, leading to a reduced calorie intake. It also improves insulin sensitivity and blood sugar balance.
Ozempic also contains semaglutide but is used specifically for the management of type 2 diabetes.
Tirzepatide (brand name: Mounjaro)
Tirzepatide mimics the action of GLP-1 and another hormone GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) for an even greater effect on appetite suppression and blood sugar control.
Mounjaro is approved for weight management for patients with severe obesity who meet other eligibility criteria.
The potential benefits
For some, these injections can be genuinely life-changing, particularly where excess weight is impacting health.
Semaglutide (Wegovy):
Clinical trials have shown 90% of users achieved over 5% weight loss after 6 months. Some users achieved 15–20% body weight loss after 68 weeks when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Additional benefits include improved blood sugar control, cholesterol and blood pressure.
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro):
Clinical trials have shown 15-25% body weight loss in the first 12 months
Additional benefits include improved blood sugar control, reduction in cardiovascular event risk.
The side effects and risks you shouldn’t overlook
While the weight loss results might sound amazing, as with any drug, there are possible downsides.
Common side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- GERD or gastritis
- Gallstones
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Hair loss
- Hypoglycaemia and diabetic retinopathy
- Links with depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts*
- Loss of muscle mass
- Loss of bone density
- Nutrient deficiencies
*seek immediate professional support
Rare but serious side effects:
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder issues
- Increased heart rate
- Gastroparesis
- Thyroid tumours (in animal studies NOT in humans)
Some people should avoid these injections entirely:
- People with eating disorders (present or past)
- Those with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer
- Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you’re on multiple medications that may interact
- Those with existing gut issues
What happens when you stop?
As with many extreme diets, most people regain weight after stopping the injections. Why? Because the appetite suppression stops, but the habits and underlying reasons for weight gain haven’t been addressed.
So the key to successful weight loss, both with and without the injections is a focus on long-term changes to diet, mindset and lifestyle.
Getting the right support
If you’ve chosen to use weight loss injections, or you’re considering them, it’s important to get additional support to minimise the side effects.
As a nutritional therapist, here’s how I can help you on your weight loss journey:
- Support digestion and reduce side effects like bloating, nausea or constipation
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods, especially protein and fibre, to protect muscle mass and avoid nutrient gaps
- Maintain blood sugar balance to keep energy stable
- Work on food mindset and emotional eating patterns, to build sustainable habits
A natural approach
If medication isn't for you, there are strategies that can help you naturally increase GLP-1 and GIP production to manage your appetite and food intake.
Eat protein and fibre-rich meals: to stimulate GLP-1 and GIP secretion, improve blood sugar balance and increase satiety.
Include healthy fats: to stimulate GLP-1 and GIP secretion, regulate blood sugar, reduce cravings and support mood.
Optimise gut health: to support short-chain fatty acid production (SCFA) which in turn stimulates GLP-1 production. Include fermented foods, pre- and probiotics.
Avoid ultra-processed foods: which can counteract the effect of GLP-1 and increase insulin resistance
Eat regular balanced meals: regular eating patterns can help GLP-1 production. Avoid skipping meals or extended fasts, which can lead to overeating later and desensitisation to GIP.
Hydrate: to support overall gut health and GLP-1 and GIP secretion.
Focus on stress management: cortisol (the stress hormone) can increase appetite in the long-term and impair GLP-1 and GIP secretion.
Include regular exercise: exercise can increase GLP-1 levels and improve the body’s sensitivity to it.
Prioritise sleep: less than 5-6 hours sleep is linked to an increased risk of obesity.
Consider supplements: whilst evidence is limited there are some supplements that may increase GLP-1 and GIP production. These should only be taken under the guidance of a health professional.
Final thoughts
Weight loss jabs can be a helpful tool for the right person, under medical supervision but they’re not for everyone. And, without the right guidance along the way, the weight often comes back.
If you’re looking for support on your weight loss journey, with or without medication, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Together we can create a sustainable, personalised plan that supports your body, your goals and your lifestyle.
Simply book a FREE call and let's have a chat
