Weight Loss Treatments

Tablet treatments can deliver similar medication to injectable treatments, although dosage levels can vary.

Tablets suit people who would prefer not to use injections. This may be due to a needle phobia or a medical reason. For people with bleeding disorders, for example, subcutaneous injections carry a minor bleeding risk.

The most suitable treatment depends on your individual health needs, medical history and weight management goals.

Results vary by person and by treatment. In a large published clinical trial of an injectable treatment in this category, involving 1,961 adults living with obesity, or excess weight alongside a related health condition:

• Participants lost an average of around 35 lbs (16 kg), roughly 15% of their body weight.
• Those given a placebo lost an average of around 6 lbs (about 2.4% of body weight).
• The average starting weight in both groups was around 232 lbs.

In the same trial programme, participants began losing weight as early as week 4, and many maintained their weight loss over time.

These treatments can be effective when used consistently alongside healthy lifestyle changes. While individual results vary, many people experience meaningful weight loss when they follow their treatment plan and stay engaged with long-term weight management.

Your weight loss medication may interact with certain other medicines or affect how quickly some medicines are absorbed.

Always tell us about any prescription medicines, over-the-counter treatments, supplements and herbal products during your consultation.

This allows prescribers to assess whether treatment is appropriate and identify any potential concerns.

If you would like weight loss support in a medically safe and welcoming group, our wellness coach and pharmacist run free weekly morning sessions online on Saturday mornings at 10am.

You are welcome to ask any questions, suggest session topics, and get vetted medical and social support from others on a similar journey.

To join the group, or for questions about side effects or plateaus during treatment, email team@webmedpharmacy.co.uk.

Some weight loss medications require gradual dose increases or reductions to help improve tolerability. Regular reviews help ensure treatment remains safe, effective and appropriate.

Instructions for missed doses vary between medications. Check the patient information leaflet or seek professional advice if you are unsure how to proceed.

Seek medical advice if serious side effects occur, if symptoms worsen unexpectedly, or if you have concerns about how well your treatment is working or its safety.

Many people benefit from limiting highly processed foods, sugary drinks and meals high in saturated fat. Individual dietary needs vary.

Exercise is generally encouraged while using weight loss medication. Physical activity can complement treatment and contribute to improved weight management results.

The injection is commonly given into one of three areas:

1. Abdomen
2. Upper thigh
3. Upper arm

Rotating injection sites can help reduce irritation and improve comfort. Avoid injecting into areas that are bruised, inflamed, sore or damaged.

The injection is given just under the skin using a pre-filled pen.

If you have a fear of needles, or feel faint or nervous about injecting yourself, it can help to have someone with you for support, or to give the injection for you.

However you choose to take your injection, most people find the process straightforward after reviewing the instructions provided with their treatment. Use the pen according to the manufacturer's guidance and any instructions from your prescriber.

Injection pens should be stored according to the manufacturer's instructions. Proper storage helps maintain medication quality and effectiveness.

When travelling, transport your medication according to its storage requirements, and plan ahead so you have enough supplies for your trip.

If travelling abroad with weight loss medication, check with your destination's embassy whether your medication is permitted. If you contact us before your trip, we can provide a letter from our prescriber to show at customs.

Used injection pens and needles should be disposed of safely using an appropriate sharps container. Follow your local disposal guidance.

After stopping treatment, appetite may gradually return to previous levels. Maintaining healthy eating habits and physical activity can help support long-term weight management.

Long-term weight maintenance is supported by consistent nutrition, regular exercise, behavioural changes and ongoing attention to healthy habits.

Some people may be able to restart treatment following reassessment by a healthcare professional. Suitability depends on your current health and prescribing guidelines.

A plateau can occur during any weight management journey. As body weight decreases, calorie requirements often change and previous routines may become less effective.

Plateaus can also be influenced by changes in physical activity, eating habits, sleep quality, stress levels or treatment progression.

A plateau does not necessarily mean your treatment has stopped working. It may indicate that your wider weight management plan needs reviewing.

Some people continue to feel hungry while using weight loss treatment, particularly in the early stages or while adjusting to a new dose.

Reviewing meal composition, protein intake, hydration, portion sizes and eating patterns may help improve appetite control. If hunger remains difficult to manage, a clinical review may be appropriate.

Some weight loss medications may be available through the NHS for eligible patients who meet specific clinical criteria. Availability varies depending on local prescribing policies and individual circumstances.

Alcohol is not always prohibited during treatment, but it may worsen certain side effects or affect weight management goals. Follow the medical advice specific to your treatment.

Some weight loss medicines may affect how well oral contraception works. Women of childbearing potential are generally advised to use contraception during treatment.

Depending on the specific medicine prescribed, your prescriber may recommend a non-oral method, or adding a barrier method for a short period—for example, the first four weeks—when you start treatment and after each dose increase. Always follow the advice given by your prescriber for your specific treatment.