Weight loss jabs: Just the Facts

Weight loss jabs such as Mounjaro and Wegovy have become well known, but aren’t necessarily the best weight loss solution for everyone. 

The safest way to manage your weight is by eating a healthy balanced diet alongside keeping active, and a health professional or GP will often suggest these lifestyle changes first before other solutions. 

It can take a few months before you notice any changes to your weight when making lifestyle changes, but your body and mind will start feeling the benefits straight away. 

Take a look at a few ways to get more exercise without really trying here. 

If you need further support to manage your weight, for example if lifestyle changes aren’t working or if the weight is linked to health problems, a GP might refer you to a specialist weight management service or program. 

When are weight loss jabs recommended?

You should only use weight loss jab if a health professional recommends them to you. This may be for health reasons or if other solutions aren’t working for you. 

Never take a weight loss medicine that hasn’t been prescribed as they can have serious side effects and may not be safe for you. 

Only three types of weight loss injection have been approved for use in the UK and you need to meet specific criteria in order to be prescribed them. 

Learn more about the different types of jabs offered and their side effects here.

How do weight loss jabs work? 

Each type is taken slightly differently, and a medical professional will recommend the right one for you.  

The jabs work by releasing insulin into the bloodstream which slows down your digestion, lowers your appetite and makes you feel full. 

They were originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes as insulin lowers your blood sugar levels, but it can also make you feel full and eat less. 

It’s still recommended to eat a balanced diet and keep active whilst taking a weight loss jab. 

There are many possible side effects of each jab, these should be explained to you before you take them. You can find out more about the side effects here.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: NHS England - Weight management injections