An introduction to GLP-1 agonists for weight loss

How do they work?

This group of drugs regulate the production of hormones responsible for your appetite.

GLP-1 agonists help your body make more of the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1). The medicine turns on the GLP-1 receptors in your pancreas, which helps to make more of the hormone. This helps your body to increase insulin levels and control blood sugar levels.

This also influences your appetite. Higher GLP-1 levels slow down digestion and how often your stomach empties. This makes you feel fuller for longer and means you eat less.

Do I need to make lifestyle changes?

Yes. For the drug to work, you must make the necessary lifestyle changes to your diet and exercise habits.

You should consume fewer calories daily. To lose 0.5kg (1 lb), you should reduce your daily calorie intake by 500kcal. You should also eat healthy foods and avoid foods high in saturated fats and sugar.

As well as your diet, you need to change your exercise regime. According to the NHS, most people should exercise 75 - 150 minutes weekly. This could be as simple as walking or doing household chores.

How do you take GLP-1 agonists?

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully because each drug is different.

Most are available as injection pens. This means you will need to inject yourself. The exact dosage will depend on the type

You will need to prepare the pen each time. Then, inject it into your lower stomach, the front of your thighs or your upper arm. Make sure to change the spot each time to limit the chance of experiencing a reaction.

Over time, your dose will gradually increase until you reach the maximum dose.

How long do you take GLP-1 medications?

Once you have reached the maintenance dose, you can continue to take the medication long-term. Your doctor will monitor you and your weight closely, and they will decide when you should stop.

You must use the medication alongside a healthy lifestyle. This is because your doctor may stop treatment if weight loss is not achieved.

Every healthcare provider is different. However, at HealthExpress, if you have not achieved 5% weight loss after 6 months of taking it.

What are the benefits?

1. Effective for weight loss

The main benefit is that they are effective for weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise regime.

Patients can lose up to 15% of their original body weight on a GLP-1 agonist.

Clinical trials investigating Saxenda and Ozempic found that patients lose 4-6kg over 20-60 weeks and almost 15% of their original body weight.

A long-term study found that patients kept the weight off, maintaining a 7.8kg loss after 2 years on Saxenda.

2. Lower risk of hypo

GLP-1 analogues have a unique benefit compared to other diabetes drugs.

Studies have found that these medications have a lower risk of dangerously low blood sugar levels, a condition known as hypo (hypoglycaemia).

If you take other diabetes medications, you may still need to adjust your doses to avoid any risk of hypoglycaemia.

3. Reduces the risk of complications

GLP-1 agonists could reduce your risk of developing health conditions later in life.

Research has found that these medicines can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. This includes conditions such as strokes and heart attacks.

Further studies also show it can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

What are the risks and side effects of GLP-1 agonists?

These medicines can cause side effects. However, most report that these side effects go away after a few days or weeks.

Some side effects of something can include feeling sick to your stomach, having diarrhoea and throwing up. It could also make you feel tired, dizzy or have trouble sleeping. You might also get an upset stomach, gallstones or a rash.

GLP-1 analogues can cause a condition called pancreatitis. It is rare but serious. If you have severe pain in your stomach, go to the doctor as soon as possible.

Always read the patient information leaflet of whichever medicine you are using.

Who can use GLP-1 agonists?

You can only be prescribed GLP-1 agonists:

• for diabetes: if you have type 2 diabetes that is not well controlled with first-line treatments (e.g. Metformin)
• for weight loss: if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 - 30 and have a weight-related condition (e.g. high blood pressure, heart disease or high cholesterol)

Because of the potential risks, it is unsafe for some people to take these medicines.

If you take any other medicines or have any other health conditions, you should always consult your doctor before starting a new treatment.

What are the alternatives to GLP-1 agonists for weight loss?

If you can’t take GLP-1 agonists, there are several alternatives:

• Orlistat (Xenical) - a weight loss tablet that reduces the amount of fat digested from your diet, reducing the number of calories you absorb.
• Mysimba - another weight loss tablet which alters parts of your brain related to appetite.

You should still consult your doctor, as both medications come with their risks and side effects.

How do I get GLP-1 agonists?

You may be able to get a GLP-1 agonist on the NHS. For diabetes, your doctor will prescribe if they think other treatments haven’t worked. They may need to refer you to a specialist weight management service for weight loss.

The quickest way to get GLP-1 agonists is through a private healthcare provider. You can visit a specialist weight loss clinic or use an online doctor’s service, like HealthExpress.

You can get a free weight loss consultation online at HealthExpress. If approved for treatment, you can order and receive it as early as the following day.

What is the average price of GLP-1 meds?

The cost of weight loss medications will depend on the healthcare provider. You can see our prices at the top of our respective treatment pages.

Does health insurance cover them?

Most private health insurance providers in the UK do not cover prescription weight loss treatments. However, always contact your provider and ask as policies will differ.