If you’re considering weight loss injections to support your journey, you’re not alone. At Eltham Pharmacy, we know that many people benefit from an extra boost to help manage their weight safely and effectively. Weight loss injections have become a popular choice for their ability to aid in appetite control, support consistent weight loss, and improve metabolic health. Among the best weight loss injections available today are Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro, each with unique benefits. Here’s an overview of how they work and what to expect, so you can decide which option might be right for you.
1. Wegovy
How It Works: Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a type of medication that mimics the hormone GLP-1, which is naturally produced in the gut. This hormone plays a key role in regulating appetite, blood sugar levels, and digestion. By activating GLP-1 receptors, Wegovy helps reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier to manage portion sizes and maintain a calorie deficit, both crucial for weight loss.
Wegovy is administered as a weekly injection, which many find convenient compared to daily injections. It’s typically prescribed for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above, or for those with a BMI of 27 or above who also have weight-related health issues, such as high blood pressure or Type 2 diabetes.
Who It’s Best Suited For: Wegovy is ideal for individuals who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. It may be particularly beneficial for those who experience strong hunger cues or difficulties managing portion sizes. Additionally, it can be an effective option for people with Type 2 diabetes, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels alongside supporting weight loss.
What to Expect: Patients typically start with a lower dose to allow the body to adjust, gradually increasing to a higher dose over several weeks. This gradual adjustment helps minimise side effects, which may include nausea, digestive issues, or mild discomfort at the injection site. Clinical trials have shown significant weight loss results, with some patients losing up to 15% of their body weight over a year.
2. Saxenda
How It Works: Saxenda (liraglutide) is another GLP-1 receptor agonist, working in a similar way to Wegovy. It affects the areas of the brain that control appetite and food intake, helping to reduce feelings of hunger and increase satiety. Saxenda, however, is administered daily rather than weekly, which may appeal to those who prefer daily routine over a weekly injection.
Saxenda is licensed for adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or those with a BMI of 27 and above who have at least one weight-related condition, such as hypertension or dyslipidaemia (high cholesterol). This injection has also been approved for use in children aged 12 and over who meet certain criteria, making it one of the few options available for adolescents struggling with obesity.
Who It’s Best Suited For: Saxenda is a good option for individuals who benefit from a consistent daily routine. Those who need assistance managing daily hunger and caloric intake will find this injection helpful. It’s also an excellent choice for those with weight-related conditions, such as high blood pressure, who want a weight loss method that supports overall health improvement.
What to Expect: Saxenda is started at a low dose, with a gradual increase over several weeks. This helps reduce the likelihood of side effects, which may include nausea, headaches, or mild gastrointestinal issues. Studies have shown that Saxenda can lead to weight loss of around 5-10% over a year when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
3. Mounjaro
How It Works: Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a relatively new addition to weight loss injections and has shown promising results. Mounjaro is unique as it’s a dual-acting GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, meaning it targets two gut hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar. This dual action is designed to reduce hunger even further and improve insulin sensitivity, making it highly effective for both weight loss and blood sugar control.
Like Wegovy, Mounjaro is a weekly injection. It’s primarily approved for managing Type 2 diabetes but has shown such strong results for weight loss that it’s often used off-label for weight management in individuals with a BMI of 30 or more or a BMI of 27 and above with related health issues.
Who It’s Best Suited For: Mounjaro is best suited for those with Type 2 diabetes who are also seeking weight loss support. Its dual-action approach may provide an added benefit to those who struggle with insulin resistance or blood sugar management issues. Mounjaro can also be a powerful option for those who have not found other weight loss methods successful.
What to Expect: Mounjaro is usually started at a low dose, increasing gradually to minimise side effects. Potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, or mild digestive discomfort, similar to other GLP-1-based injections. Many patients report significant weight loss over several months, with studies showing average weight loss of 10-15% of body weight in one year.
Making the Right Choice
Each of these options—Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro—offers unique benefits, and choosing the best weight loss injection will depend on individual health needs and lifestyle preferences.
At Eltham Pharmacy, we’re here to support you in selecting the best weight loss medication for your journey. During a consultation, we can assess your health profile, discuss potential side effects, and help you establish a weight loss plan that incorporates healthy eating and regular exercise. By taking a balanced approach, these injections can effectively help you achieve and sustain a healthier weight.
If you’re ready to explore your options, contact Eltham Pharmacy today to learn more about the best weight loss injections and take the first step toward reaching your weight loss goals.
This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
