Each of these medications works by acting on hormones that regulate hunger and satiety:

• Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone, which slows digestion, reduces hunger, and helps control blood sugar levels.
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It acts on two hunger-regulating pathways, making it potentially more effective in appetite suppression and weight loss compared to single-pathway treatments.
• Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) works similarly to Wegovy but is taken in tablet form rather than an injection.

By helping you feel fuller for longer, these medications reduce overall food intake and support sustainable weight loss over time.

In the UK, these medications are generally prescribed to individuals who meet the following criteria:

• BMI of 30 or above (classified as obese).
• BMI of 27 or above, if they also have weight-related health conditions such as:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • High cholesterol
  • Sleep apnoea

These medications are not suitable for everyone. People with a history of pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal issues, or certain endocrine disorders should consult a healthcare professional before starting treatment. A medical consultation is required before obtaining a prescription.

Like any medication, weight loss treatments can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them.

The most common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Indigestion

These symptoms are usually mild and tend to subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Taking your dose at the same time each week and staying hydrated may help minimize side effects.

Less common but serious side effects may include:

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) – Symptoms include severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Gallbladder issues (such as gallstones) – Sudden pain in the upper abdomen may indicate gallbladder problems.
• Allergic reactions – Rare but possible, including swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, seek medical advice immediately. Always read the patient information leaflet provided with your medication for a full list of possible side effects and precautions.

The method of administration depends on the medication:

• Wegovy and Mounjaro are injectable treatments, taken once a week. These are pre-filled pens designed for easy self-administration.
• Rybelsus is a tablet taken once daily, preferably on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking.

If you are prescribed an injectable medication, your pharmacist or healthcare provider will guide you on how and where to inject the medication properly. Always follow the instructions included in the product manual.

Many people begin to notice initial weight loss within the first few weeks of starting treatment, but significant, sustainable results can take several months.

The rate of weight loss varies based on:

• Dosage (higher doses are often introduced gradually).
• Diet and physical activity levels.
• Individual metabolism.

Clinical trials have shown that after 12 months of consistent use, many patients lose 10-15% of their total body weight when combined with lifestyle changes. To maximize your results, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet, stay physically active, and follow your prescribed dosage correctly.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before combining any of these medications with other weight loss treatments, supplements, or medications.

Combining multiple weight loss treatments without proper medical supervision can increase the risk of side effects and cause drug interactions. Your GP or pharmacist will be able to advise whether additional treatments are safe for you.

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Wegovy, Rybelsus, or Mounjaro. However, you should follow any dietary guidance provided by your healthcare professional.

If you have specific dietary needs, existing medical conditions, or concerns about how certain foods may interact with your medication, it is best to speak with your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.

To determine whether Wegovy, Rybelsus, or Mounjaro is right for you, it is recommended to:

• Consult your GP or a healthcare professional, especially if you have any existing medical conditions.
• Alternatively, reach out to us to chat with our qualified pharmacist, who can provide guidance based on your medical history and weight loss goals.

A full medical assessment will be required before a prescription is issued.

For detailed step-by-step instructions, please refer to the manual included with your medication.

Your dosage will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your individual needs. Typically:

• You will start with a lower dose, which is gradually increased to minimize side effects.
• Injections are usually administered once a week, on the same day each week.
• The injection is given subcutaneously (under the skin), usually in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm.

If you are unsure about how to administer your injection correctly, please contact your healthcare provider or our pharmacist for assistance.

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measurement that helps assess whether a person is underweight, a healthy weight, overweight, or obese based on their weight relative to their height.

BMI Ranges:

• Underweight: BMI below 18.5
• Healthy weight: BMI 18.5 – 24.9
• Overweight: BMI 25 – 29.9
• Obese: BMI 30 or higher

While BMI is a useful guideline, it does not account for factors such as muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution. A healthcare professional can provide a more comprehensive assessment of your weight and health status.