Slimming injections have gained significant attention in recent years as a potential solution for individuals struggling with obesity management. These injections, used by the rich and the famous, offer an additional medical tool to aid in weight loss alongside traditional methods like diet and exercise.
However, before deciding if slimming injections are the right choice for you, it is essential to be fully aware of the pros and the cons. Here at Bodyline Clinic, we want to help you make the right decisions.
What are Slimming Injections and How Do They Work?
Slimming injections are the newest craze in weight loss, and that’s because of their evidence backed results. They are injectable pens that can be self-administered to mimic the effect of hormones that regulate our hunger to make us feel fuller. The hormones they mimic are glucagon-like-peptide-1s or (GLP-1s).
GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic the effects of GLP-1 in the body. They bind to GLP-1 receptors and activate them, resulting in similar physiological responses as the natural hormone.
GLP-1 receptor agonists were formulated in medications to help people living with type-2 diabetes as GLP-1 also has insulin-stimulating properties and help to regulate blood sugar levels. However, during clinical trials, clinicians saw that the agonists reduced appetite and promoted incredible weight loss.
As a result, pharmaceutical companies have clamoured to create the best obesity treatments using GLP-1 agonists as active ingredients, and now many have been approved for obesity management prescriptions in the UK.
However, sometimes GLP-1 is not the thing that they’re lacking. The brand-new weight loss injection pen Mounjaro contains the dual acting active ingredient tirzepatide. Tirzepatide, now available at Bodyline, contains both GLP-1 and GIP, and clinical studies have displayed weight loss results that are unparalleled to others on the market, with an average 20% body weight reduction.
Dr Morgan Toerien, Clinical Director, Bodyline Medical Wellness Clinics:
“GLP-1s (glucagon-like-peptide 1) and the GIPs (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) are both substances that are naturally found in the body. Their purpose is to regulate appetite and signal to our brains the feeling of being full. When people are struggling with maintaining their weight, one of two things is often happening. Either they’re not making enough of these hormones, or their body is resistant to them. That means they might need a higher number of the hormones to get the same effect because what their body is producing is not enough.
Contact Bodyline today to find out more about our safe and effective weight loss programmes and range of treatment options.
Pros of Slimming Injections
1. Effective Weight Loss Results
Slimming injections like Mounjaro, WeGovy and Saxenda have shown brilliant results in clinical trials. When used alongside improved diet and increased exercise, all three medications have been proven to reduce starting weight effectively and safely.
Saxenda, the liraglutide weight loss injection available since 2014, has been helping thousands of people living with obesity lose weight effectively, with the average user seeing a loss of between 5-10% of their starting weight.
WeGovy contains semaglutide, the active ingredient also used in Ozempic, and since its approval for obesity treatment in 2023 has been world renowned for the “game changing” weight loss results it has produced. In trials studying the effectiveness of semaglutide, participants lost an average of 15% of their starting weight across 68 weeks.
Finally, Mounjaro is the latest to be approved for the treatment of obesity. This medication, containing dual acting tirzepatide, has been seen to surpass the weight loss results of all other weight loss injections, and has seen the average user lose up to 21% of their starting weight.
2. Regulated Appetite and Reduced Food Cravings
One of the primary benefits of slimming injections is their ability to regulate appetite and reduce food cravings. By mimicking the effects of naturally occurring hormones like GLP-1, these injections help individuals feel full and satisfied for longer periods, making it easier to adhere to a reduced-calorie diet. Mounjaro actually is a dual agonist containing both GLP-1 and GIP hormones.
These hormones can be especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with overeating or emotional eating.
3. Improved Blood Sugar Control
Many slimming injections also have positive effects on blood sugar control. By regulating blood sugar levels and promoting insulin secretion, these injections can be particularly beneficial for individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Better blood sugar control not only helps with weight management but also reduces the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes.
4. Fully Supported Approach When Used as Prescribed
Slimming injections should typically be prescribed as part of a comprehensive weight management plan. This plan includes dietary guidance, behaviour modification, and lifestyle changes to support long-term weight loss success. By addressing multiple aspects of weight management, slimming injections offer a holistic approach that can lead to sustainable results.
Cons of Slimming Injections
1. Potential Side Effects
Like any medication, slimming injections can have potential side effects.
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, and can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and headaches. These side effects are generally temporary and subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, it is essential to discuss potential side effects with the prescribers and medical weight loss specialists so they can monitor any adverse reactions.
2. Need for Medical Supervision
Slimming injections are prescription medications and should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. These injections require proper dosing, administration, and monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.
They can’t just be bought and used, particularly because some black-market sellers are not providing legitimate slimming injections, causing incidences of severe injury and danger to health.
It is crucial to consult with a reputable healthcare provider, like Bodyline, who specialises in weight management to receive personalized recommendations and ongoing support, as well as care and support throughout your weight loss journey.
3. Not a Standalone Solution
Slimming injections should not be seen as a standalone solution for weight loss. They are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and lifestyle modifications. These injections should be viewed as an aid to support overall weight loss efforts rather than a sole method for achieving weight loss.
In conclusion, slimming injections can be a valuable tool in the journey towards weight management. They offer effective weight loss results, regulated appetite, improved blood sugar control, and a comprehensive approach to weight management. However, it is crucial to consider potential side effects, the need for medical supervision, and the importance of adopting a holistic approach to weight loss. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine if slimming injections are suitable for your individual needs and goals.
At Bodyline Clinic, we specialise in medically supervised weight loss programmes that incorporate slimming injections like GLP-1 or combined GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists. Our experienced healthcare professionals provide personalized guidance and support to help individuals achieve their weight loss goals safely and effectively. Contact Bodyline Clinic today by calling 0800 995 6036 or complete an online contact form for a call back to learn more about our weight management programmes and how slimming injections could be part of your journey towards a healthier lifestyle.
