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In today’s world there is an ever-present pressure to achieve your ideal body weight. Various weight loss methods have emerged to cater to overweight individuals trying to shed excess pounds. One of these methods is weight loss injections. These GLP-receptor agonist injections have gained popularity as a potential solution for those seeking safe, effective, and convenient ways to manage their weight.
What are GLP-1 receptor agonists (RAs)?
GLP-1 RAs are a class of medications originally used to treat diabetes but have recently been recognised for their effectiveness in treating obesity. They work by controlling appetite and weight through a series of brain-gut reactions, slowing stomach emptying, and signaling the brain to reduce hunger.
How effective are weight loss injections?
In clinical trials, semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly injections (Wegovy) resulted in an average weight loss of 15% of body weight, Tirzepatide 2.5mgs - 15mgs (Mounjaro) resulted in an average weight loss of 22% both of which is significantly higher than the average weight loss achieved with traditional diet and exercise plans.
Do weight loss injections guarantee results?
While most people do experience some weight loss, there is no guarantee that everyone will have the same results and does take time. Factors such as your individual metabolic rate can influence the efficacy of weight loss injections.
Medication is just one part of weight loss. What is important to achieve your goals is ensuring you eat a nutritious balanced diet, stay hydrated and get regular exercise all are vital parts of the journey. If you don’t attempt to assist your body in any way, the injections won’t give you the results you hope for.
Will I have to take these medications indefinitely?
CSSA believe that obesity is complex and that for too long people have blamed themselves when in truth there are so many influences, physical and emotional that need the right support. Obesity is a chronic disease and managing it is similar to managing high blood pressure. GLP-1 RAs are approved for long-term use and are usually started at a low dose, gradually increasing to a target dose that is effective for each individual.
Are there any side effects?
Like any medication, GLP-1 RAs can have side effects. It’s important to discuss these with a healthcare provider and consider them in the context of the medication’s benefits. You can read more about this in our resources blog post https://www.clinicalalliance.co.uk/post/weight-loss-medication-and-side-effects-explained
Can these medications help with conditions other than weight loss?
Wegovy (semaglutide)and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) injection are indicated, in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with established cardiovascular disease and either obesity or overweight.
As science learns more about the effectiveness of these medications, new benefits to the medication are becoming known, these include reduction in blood pressure, regulating blood sugar, reducing neuroinflammation, help maintaining healthy blood cholesterol levels, to name a few.
It is important to remember, weight loss medications must be purchased from a reputable healthcare provider who will ensure an assessment of your current health status is carried out and reviewed by a healthcare professional to ensure the medication is suitable for you. You also need to ensure weight loss injections are used in conjunction with expert guidance and lifestyle modifications.
CSSA are here to help and guide you to achieve your weight loss goals.
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