Ozempic is a specialised treatment designed for patients with type 2 diabetes. While it’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for managing both diabetes and weight loss in the US, it’s not currently approved for weight loss in the UK. Although Ozempic shows potential as a weight loss aid, it may not be suitable for everyone.
For many people living with obesity, losing a significant amount of weight and keeping it off through lifestyle changes alone can be a challenge. Different medications offer various benefits: some are more effective for weight loss, others for reducing cravings, and some excel at managing both type 2 diabetes and weight.
Choosing an anti-obesity medication as part of a personalised treatment plan is essential, as obesity is a complex condition, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
Wegovy
Wegovy is another injectable medication that contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in Ozempic. However, unlike Ozempic, which is primarily for managing type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is specifically approved for weight management. In the UK, it’s prescribed to individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher who also have a weight-related condition (such as type 2 diabetes), or for those with a BMI of 30 or more.
What sets Wegovy apart from older medications is its effectiveness. Recent studies show that semaglutide can result in a significant 15% reduction in body weight over 68 weeks in adults with a BMI of 30 or higher. This makes it a powerful option for those who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
Like Ozempic, Wegovy is a prescription-only medication, administered once a week via injection. However, the key difference lies in the dosage. The dose of Wegovy is increased over time, and your healthcare provider will guide you through these adjustments to ensure maximum effectiveness with minimal side effects.
Saxenda
Saxenda, like Ozempic and Wegovy, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, but it contains liraglutide instead of semaglutide as its active ingredient. Available only by prescription, Saxenda is approved by the MHRA for treating obesity in adults up to the age of 75. According to the NHS, Saxenda is suitable for patients with an initial BMI of 30kg/m² or higher (classified as obese), or 27kg/m² or higher for those with weight-related conditions like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
Liraglutide works similarly to semaglutide by reducing appetite and slowing stomach emptying, creating feelings of fullness that lead to reduced calorie intake. The primary difference is in how these medications are administered: liraglutide is taken once daily, while semaglutide is taken once weekly.
Both liraglutide and semaglutide must be prescribed by a CQC-approved weight loss programme provider .
Mounjaro
Mounjaro, like Ozempic, is an injectable prescription medication but uses tirzepatide as its active ingredient instead of semaglutide. Originally approved to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, recent clinical studies have shown that Mounjaro is also highly effective for weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. Mounjaro works similarly to Ozempic by reducing appetite and improving blood sugar management after meals. However, tirzepatide has demonstrated even greater effectiveness for weight loss than semaglutide in clinical trials.
Mounjaro is now approved for weight loss in the UK, making it an attractive option for patients struggling with both obesity and diabetes.
Finding the Right Weight Loss Medication for You
Deciding between Ozempic or another weight loss medication is a personal choice that depends on your health history and specific needs. The best way to determine which option is right for you is to consult with your doctor. They can assess your situation and recommend the most effective treatment for you.
After discussing your options, the next step is connecting with a CQC-registered weight loss programme provider to ensure you’re getting authentic, medically approved medications. Keep in mind that even if you decide to use weight loss medications, they should always be paired with dietary changes and regular physical activity for the best results. This is why it’s vital to choose a holistic weight loss programme rather than just focusing on injections alone.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive provider that offers ongoing clinical 1:1 support, SemaPen is an excellent choice. As a CQC-registered provider, we ensure that our patients receive the highest level of care, combining medical expertise with personalised guidance to help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Take the next step towards a healthier future with SemaPen!