Assessing weight is crucial for overall health as it provides valuable insights into an individual’s risk for various health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
Maintaining a healthy weight is not just about appearance, but also about improving long-term well-being by reducing strain on vital organs and promoting better metabolic function.
In some cases, weight loss injections can serve as an effective support tool in achieving weight management goals.
These prescribed weight loss injections help regulate appetite, improve fat burning, and promote satiety, making it easier for individuals to lose weight and sustain healthy habits.
When used alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise, weight loss injections can offer a significant boost in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, ultimately supporting better overall health outcomes.
At Dr Helen Medical, you can combine weight loss injections with an assessment with our lifestyle GP to support your long-term health.
As part of our commitment to safe medicine, it is an expectation that you will allow us to inform your NHS GP of the prescription details.
£130
A prescription will be issued when appropriate, along with a sharps bin. You will be taught how to administer the injections. Prescriptions can be taken to a pharmacy of your choice. The pharmacy will charge you for the cost of the medication and a dispensing fee. This can vary between pharmacies.
This injectable treatment is designed to help manage type 2 diabetes and assist with weight loss. It works by mimicking natural hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite, helping to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood sugar levels, and reduce hunger, which can lead to weight loss over time.
This treatment is typically prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes who have not achieved adequate control over their blood sugar through diet and exercise alone. It is also suitable for adults who are overweight or obese and need additional support with weight management, in combination with lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and exercise.
The injection is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) once a week. Common injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. A healthcare provider will guide you on how to administer the injection.
The primary benefit is its ability to reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness, leading to a reduction in overall calorie intake. Additionally, it helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can improve metabolic health. Combined with a balanced diet and exercise, it can result in significant weight loss.
Common side effects include nausea, digestive discomfort, reduced appetite, and mild gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea or constipation. These effects usually subside after a few days or weeks as your body adjusts. If you experience more severe side effects, such as abdominal pain or signs of an allergic reaction, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
The time it takes to see results can vary, but many individuals notice improvements in blood sugar levels and appetite control within the first few weeks of starting treatment. For weight loss, results may take several weeks to a few months, depending on your unique circumstances and commitment to lifestyle changes.
While the treatment can help with weight loss and blood sugar management, it is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Your healthcare provider will guide you on making dietary changes and incorporating exercise to maximise the benefits of the treatment and improve overall health.
This treatment may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as a history of pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, or severe gastrointestinal disorders. It’s essential to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider to determine if this treatment is right for you. Your provider will assess the potential risks and benefits before starting therapy.
Delayed stomach emptying caused by this treatment may affect how well oral contraceptives (birth control pills) are absorbed compared to other similar medications. However, there isn’t enough information on how this treatment specifically impacts the effectiveness of oral contraceptives in people who are overweight or have obesity, so it’s possible that the birth control may not work as well.
Because of this, it’s recommended that individuals taking this treatment switch to a non-oral form of contraception, such as an implant or injection, or use an additional barrier method (like condoms) for four weeks after starting the treatment and after each dose increase.
