Weight loss injections. Do they work? How much are they?

In recent years, weight loss injections have emerged as a significant tool in combating obesity in the UK. 

Medications like Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro have gained attention for their effectiveness in aiding weight reduction when combined with lifestyle changes. 

This article explores the companies offering these treatments, their efficacy, safety profiles, and associated costs.​

Companies Offering Weight Loss Injections in the UK

Several pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers offer weight loss injections:​

Wegovy (Semaglutide): Manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Wegovy has been approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for use within the NHS. It is also available through private healthcare providers.​

Saxenda (Liraglutide): Also produced by Novo Nordisk, Saxenda is accessible via the NHS for individuals meeting specific criteria and can be obtained privately.​

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): Developed by Eli Lilly, Mounjaro is available through private clinics and online pharmacies in the UK.​

Effectiveness of Weight Loss Injections

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of these medications:​

Wegovy: In a 68-week trial, participants experienced an average weight loss of 15.8% of their initial body weight. ​

Saxenda: The same study reported a mean weight loss of 6.4% over 68 weeks. ​

Mounjaro: Clinical trials have shown weight reductions ranging from 15% to 20% of initial body weight. ​

Safety and Side Effects

While effective, these injections may cause side effects, typically mild but diminishing over time:​

Common Side Effects: Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, headache, fatigue, dizziness, stomach pain, and upset stomach. ​

Serious Risks: Rare but severe side effects can include pancreatitis. Users are advised to consult healthcare professionals for personalised advice and monitoring. ​

Cost of Weight Loss Injections

The cost varies depending on the medication and provider:​

thedietologist.co.uk

Wegovy: NICE lists prices ranging from £124.54 to £175.80 per pack, depending on the dosage. ​

Saxenda: Approximately £196.20 for a pack of five 3ml pens. ​

Mounjaro: Prices start from £188.99 per pen. ​

These treatments may be available on the NHS for individuals meeting specific criteria; otherwise, they can be accessed through private healthcare channels.​

However, some local NHS Trusts routinely decline to prescribe weight loss injections on cost grounds, often blaming dubious 'clinical reasons.'

Conclusion

Weight loss injections like Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro offer promising avenues for individuals struggling with obesity. While they have shown significant effectiveness, it is crucial to consider potential side effects and consult healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Costs can be substantial, but eligibility for NHS coverage may alleviate financial burdens for some patients.

Global Wellness Brand Feel Launches Pro Metabolic: Unique Supplement Helps Manage Appetite, Curb Cravings & Support Metabolic Health

Global health and wellness brand Feel has launched Pro Metabolic, which is a unique, next-generation formula designed to stimulate your body's own GLP-1 secretion naturally. 

Thus helping you manage appetite, curb food cravings and support metabolic health.

The ground-breaking proprietary combination of ingredients - different to any other in Europe, is designed to adjust your body's hunger mechanisms. Each ingredient has been validated to ensure its efficacy in re-calibrating your body gradually to a less hungry, less snacking you in 90 days.

GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is a powerful hormone released in the gut when we eat. It plays a vital role in appetite regulation, blood sugar balance and metabolism. Unlike synthetic GLP-1 injections, Feel Pro Metabolic naturally enhances your body's own production of this hormone, so helping you achieve weight control in a safer, gentler and more sustainable way.

According to the brand, unlike so-called “skinny pens”, Feel Pro Metabolic has no side effects, which include nausea, muscle loss and skin sagging, and is taken as a daily drinkable mix. 

By taking over three to six months, Feel says long term sustainable eating patterns will also form, so reducing the need for harsh, restrictive diets or methods.

By stimulating GLP-1 production, Feel Pro Metabolic helps you'll feel satisfied with smaller portions and stay full for longer:

● Signals fullness to the brain, which helps reduce cravings and overeating

● Slows digestion, which keeps you satisfied for longer after meals

● Supports metabolic health, which encourages better glucose balance and insulin response

Ingredients in Feel Pro Metabolic include: soy peptides; extracts of rocket apple and kombucha black tea; gum acacia, zinc citrate and vitamin B6.

Boris Hodakel, who is the founder of Feel, which was the first brand to launch vegan collagen and has sold almost two million of its award-winning products worldwide, said: “We are very excited to launch the long-awaited Feel Pro Metabolic - smart appetite control which naturally supports hunger to make you feel full for longer. 

"By curbing cravings naturally, it reduces hunger signals, making it easier to eat intuitively, without harsh and extreme diets or stimulants - working with your body, not against it.”

For best results, you should take one sachet of berry-flavour Feel Pro Metabolic daily, mixed with 300-400ml of water, before a meal. Feel recommends it's taken consecutively for a minimum of 12 weeks to see results, with best results achieved within 24 weeks.

Feel Pro Metabolic is priced at £49.95 (subscription price) for 30 sachets, or £64.94 for a one-off purchase.

http://www.wearefeel.com

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Intermittent Fasting for Weight Control

Intermittent fasting has gained significant popularity in recent years as a strategy for weight management and overall health improvement. 

This dietary approach involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, with various methods ranging from daily fasting windows to alternate-day fasting. 

While intermittent fasting has been praised for its potential benefits, it also comes with its share of drawbacks. Let's look at the pros and cons of intermittent fasting for weight control:

Pros:

Weight Loss: Intermittent fasting can lead to calorie restriction, which is a key factor in weight loss. By limiting the time frame for eating, individuals may naturally consume fewer calories, promoting fat loss over time.

Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Fasting periods can enhance insulin sensitivity, making it easier for the body to regulate blood sugar levels. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.

Simplicity: Unlike restrictive diets that require meticulous meal planning and calorie counting, intermittent fasting is relatively simple to follow. Once individuals establish their fasting schedule, they can focus on making healthy food choices during eating periods.

Potential Health Benefits: Beyond weight control, intermittent fasting has been associated with various health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and enhanced brain function. Some research suggests it may even promote longevity.

Flexibility: Intermittent fasting allows for flexibility in meal timing, making it adaptable to different lifestyles. Whether you're an early riser or a night owl, you can customise your fasting window to suit your preferences.

Cons:

Potential Nutrient Deficiencies: With a restricted eating window, individuals may struggle to consume an adequate amount of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. This could potentially lead to nutrient deficiencies if not managed properly.

Risk of Disordered Eating: Intermittent fasting may trigger unhealthy eating behaviors or a preoccupation with food during fasting periods. For individuals prone to disordered eating patterns, this approach could exacerbate existing issues.

Difficulty Sustaining: While intermittent fasting can yield initial weight loss results, some individuals may find it challenging to maintain over the long term. Without a sustainable eating pattern, there's a risk of regaining lost weight once normal eating habits resume.

Potential for Muscle Loss: Extended fasting periods, especially without adequate protein intake, may lead to muscle breakdown. This can be detrimental for individuals looking to preserve or build lean muscle mass while losing weight.

Not Suitable for Everyone: Intermittent fasting may not be suitable for certain populations, including pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with a history of eating disorders, or those with certain medical conditions. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any fasting regimen.

In conclusion, intermittent fasting can be an effective tool for weight control and may offer additional health benefits. However, it's important to approach it mindfully, considering individual needs, preferences, and potential risks. By balancing the pros and cons and adopting a sensible approach, individuals can harness the potential benefits of intermittent fasting while mitigating any drawbacks. As with any dietary strategy, consistency, moderation, and personalised guidance are key to long-term success.

It's advisable to consult with medical professionals before starting any diet, especially if you have underlying health issues.