Losing weight is a journey that many have taken. We already know the different approaches people use, including things like eating nutritious meals, counting calories, starting an exercise routine, and intermittent fasting.
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For some people, taking these steps are enough to reach their goals. However, weight loss is not the same for everyone. While some get support with prepped meals or fitness coaches, others need special programs or prescription weight loss medication. Those who are overweight or those who are obese may have other genetic or medical conditions that need proper medical management.
What is obesity?
According to the World Health Organization, “Overweight” is a condition of excessive fat deposits while “Obesity” is a chronic complex disease defined by excessive fat deposits. Obesity can affect health and can increase the risk for complications like heart disease and diabetes.
Measurements such as the body mass index (BMI) are used as markers for overweight and obesity. BMI is calculated as weight (kg)/height² (m²). Overweight is a BMI greater than or equal to 25; and Obesity is a BMI greater than or equal to 30.
Is obesity a problem?
Obesity is an increasing problem around the world, and the UK is no exception.
In 2021 and 2022, 63.8% of adults aged 18 years and over in England were estimated to be overweight or obese. In Scotland, 31% of adults were obese and 36% were overweight. In Wales, self-reported data showed 26% of women and 23% of men reported being obese. In Northern Ireland in 2019/2020, 27% of adults in Northern Ireland were obese and 38% were overweight.
With the many dangerous health conditions linked to obesity, the government has implemented programs to focus on prevention, medical services, and the provision of resources and medications.
What are the medications available in the UK?
Though weight loss medications have been around for decades, the approval and use of these in the UK were fairly recent. In the latter part of 2023, the medications Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) made news when they were approved in the UK. Prior to that, Saxenda (liraglutide) and orlistat were being used.
These medications were approved for use in the NHS with diet and physical activity to manage excess weight in people who qualify based on their BMI and health background. Doctors have to assess the person, and prescriptions are all under specialist weight management clinics services, according to guidelines. Prescriptions can also be obtained through online apps approved by the NHS. A prescription pill called Mysimba (naltrexone–bupropion) is not available on the NHS for treating overweight or obesity but instead is available under private prescription only.
However, if you’re looking for a more accessible option to support your weight loss efforts, there are also the best weight loss supplements on the market. While these don’t require a prescription, many of them can complement your diet and exercise regimen, offering a more natural approach to managing excess weight.
Are these medications safe and effective?
A study on the aforementioned medications showed that they were effective in helping patients lose approximately 5-20% of excess weight. This was dependent on the medication, of course, and if the patient implemented the correct lifestyle changes and the weight loss programme was monitored closely.
However, as with other medications, people must always be careful. Side effects are always a risk and can vary depending on the weight loss medication. These can include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, injection site reaction, headache, and dizziness. Other more serious side effects can include gallbladder or kidney problems, pancreatitis, depression, or severe allergic reactions.
Thus, doctors warn against trying to seek these medications on your own or not checking in with your doctor when you are on the medications. Also, long-term effects are still unknown, especially with newer medications so it’s important for patients to only use the medications for a limited time.
How to know what is best for you
There are many factors affecting weight, and this can include complicated medical conditions. Understanding the underlying causes is an important step in managing your weight. It is always best to consult your doctor if you are a candidate for prescription weight loss medication or other programs. With proper information and support, you can be better prepared to start and stay motivated on your weight loss journey.
