Understanding GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss (Mounjaro®, Ozempic®, Wegovy®)
- Kate Organ
- Sep 15
- 4 min read
Many people find that despite their best efforts with diet and exercise, losing weight and keeping it off is very challenging. In recent years, a new group of medicines called GLP-1 receptor agonists has become available. These medicines can make a real difference for people living with obesity or type 2 diabetes, when used safely and with the right support.
What are GLP-1 Agonists?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that your body naturally releases after eating. It helps regulate appetite, digestion, and blood sugar. GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines mimic this natural hormone.
How they work:
Slow down stomach emptying, helping you feel full sooner and for longer
Reduce appetite and cravings, making it easier to eat less
Improve blood sugar control by increasing insulin release (only when glucose is present) and reducing excess glucagon
Support weight loss through changes in both appetite and metabolism
Types of GLP-1 Medicines
Ozempic® (semaglutide) – used for type 2 diabetes, with some benefit for weight loss
Wegovy® (semaglutide at a higher dose) – licensed for weight management, designed specifically to help with significant weight loss
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) – works on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, showing even greater weight loss in studies; currently licensed for type 2 diabetes and increasingly for obesity
Benefits of Treatment
Weight loss: Clinical trials show average weight reductions of 10–20% of body weight, depending on the medication and dose
Better blood sugar control: Especially helpful for people with type 2 diabetes
Heart protection: Some GLP-1 medicines reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke
Improved wellbeing: Many people report more energy, improved confidence, and better quality of life
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Like all medicines, GLP-1 agonists have potential side effects. Most are mild and improve over time.
Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal discomfort
Occasional: Gallstones, dehydration, low blood sugar (if combined with insulin or certain tablets)
Rare: Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), or thyroid issues (not proven in humans, but seen in animal studies)
We carefully review your health history and monitor your progress to reduce risks and keep treatment safe.
Who May Benefit from GLP-1 Treatment?
GLP-1 medicines are not for everyone. They are usually considered if:
Your BMI is 30 or above (obesity), or 27–29.9 with weight-related health problems (e.g. high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea)
You have type 2 diabetes that is not well controlled with lifestyle and standard treatments
You are motivated to make lifestyle changes alongside medication
You do not have certain medical conditions (such as a history of pancreatitis, severe stomach problems, or a personal/family history of specific thyroid cancers)
Our Approach: Safe, Professional, and Supportive
Medication alone is not enough. The best and safest results come when GLP-1 treatment is combined with professional support and healthy lifestyle changes.
Medical screening before treatment to check blood tests, overall health, and suitability
Regular follow-up to monitor progress, side effects, and results
Lifestyle support including nutrition guidance, exercise planning, and behavioural strategies
Long-term safety with monitoring of weight, blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall wellbeing
Our aim is to help you achieve sustainable, healthy weight loss that improves not only how you look and feel, but also your long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Mounjaro & Wegovy for weight loss
1. How long will I need to take a GLP-1 medication?
These medicines work best when taken long term, much like medicines for high blood pressure or cholesterol. If you stop, appetite and weight often return. Mounjaro & Wegovy are designed to be used long term for sustained weight loss.
2. Will I regain weight if I stop treatment?
Many people do regain weight after stopping, especially if lifestyle changes are not in place. That’s why ongoing nutrition, activity, and behavioural support are important.
3. How quickly will I lose weight?
Weight loss is gradual and healthy. Most people start to notice changes after a few weeks, with more significant results over 3–6 months.
4. Can I still drink alcohol while on treatment?
Alcohol in moderation is usually safe, but heavy drinking can increase side effects (such as nausea, pancreatitis, or low blood sugar if you have diabetes).
5. Do I need regular blood tests?
For the best care, we advise a blood test before starting and during treatment, we monitor blood sugar, kidney function, cholesterol, and liver function to make sure the medicine is safe and effective for you.
6. Will it affect my other medicines?
We always review your current medication. Some diabetes medicines (like insulin or sulfonylureas) may need dose adjustment to avoid low blood sugar.
7. What happens if I miss a dose?
If you miss a weekly injection and it’s been less than 5 days, you can take it when you remember. If it’s longer, skip the missed dose and continue as scheduled. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist if unsure.
In summary GLP-1 agonists are effective, safe when monitored, and can transform health for people struggling with obesity or type 2 diabetes. Combined with professional care and lifestyle support, they are one of the most powerful tools we now have for long-term weight management.
