Which Weight Loss Drug Is Best For Me?

With a number of weight loss drugs available either by prescription or over the counter, there is plenty of scope to research and find the right drug for you. For best results, this should be added to a weight management plan.

The drug that is best for you will depend on a number of factors including your BMI, any health complications such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular conditions, and whether you are looking for oral or injectable medication.

We break down each drug for you, including details on who can take it, how it works, common side effects, and how to administer it.

Saxenda

Saxenda is a weight loss drug containing the active ingredient liraglutide.

Who is it for?

Adults with a BMI of 35 or higher, high blood sugar (non diabetic) and at risk of health problems due to hypertension and high cholesterol.

How does it work?

Saxenda mimics the GLP-1 hormone, reducing appetite and slowing digestion.

What are the common side effects?

● Nausea

● Vomiting

● Diarrhea

● Constipation

● Fatigue

● Headaches

Is a prescription required?

Yes

How do I take it?

Saxenda is taken by subcutaneous injection once daily.

Ozempic

Ozempic is a drug licensed to treat type 2 diabetes and contains the active ingredient semaglutide.

Who is it for?

People with type 2 diabetes

How does it work?

Ozempic mimics GLP-1 hormone, reducing appetite and slowing digestion, as well as reducing blood sugar levels.

What are the common side effects?

● Nausea

● Vomiting

● Diarrhea

● Heartburn

● Fatigue

● Headaches

Is a prescription required?

Yes

How do I take it?

Ozempic is taken by subcutaneous injection once weekly.

Wegovy

Wegovy is a weight loss drug containing semaglutide.

Who is it for?

Adults with a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 30 if you have other contributing health conditions.

How does it work?

Wegovy mimics GLP-1 hormone, reduces appetite and slows digestion.

What are the common side effects?

● Nausea

● Vomiting

● Diarrhea

● Heartburn

● Fatigue

● Headaches

Is a prescription required?

Yes

How do I take it?

Wegovy is administered through subcutaneous injection once weekly.

Reybelsus

Reybelsus contains semaglutide and is used to control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Who is it for?

Adults with type 2 diabetes

How does it work?

Reybelsus mimics GLP-1 hormone, reduces appetite, slows digestion and reduces blood sugar.

What are the common side effects?

● Nausea

● Vomiting

● Diarrhea

● Low blood sugar

● Stomach pain

Is a prescription required?

Yes

How do I take it?

Oral tablet, once daily

Mysimba

Mysimba is a weight loss drug containing naltrexone and bupropion.

Who is it for?

Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher

How does it work?

Mysimba combines naltrexone and bupropion to affect appetite and cravings.

What are the common side effects?

● Nausea

● Vomiting

● Headaches

● Constipation

● Dizziness

● hot flushes

● Anxiety

● Tiredness

● Palpitations

Is a prescription required?

Yes

How do I take it?

Oral tablet, titrated to recommended dose

Mounjaro

Mounjaro is used to reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Who is it for?

Adults with type 2 diabetes

How does it work?

Mounjaro is a GLP-1/GIP/Glucagon receptor agonist, reducing appetite and slowing digestion.

What are the common side effects?

● Nausea

● Vomiting

● Diarrhea

● Constipation

● Indigestion

● Stomach pain

Is a prescription required?

Yes

How do I take it?

Subcutaneous injection once a week

Our approach to weight loss

Research shows that for weight loss medication to be successful, it’s best combined with lifestyle and nutritional changes such as a balanced diet and an exercise plan. We believe in a holistic approach starting with a consultation to discover which drug is best for your body and your needs. Along with your choice of medication, you’ll be able to access support from our clinical team and our library of resources to aid your weight loss journey.

Use our free resources

Weight loss drugs are not the only way to manage weight. Our resource section is free and packed full of information to help you learn how to lose weight effectively and safely.