Weight Loss Medications

Where can I buy weight loss injections?

Buy Weight Loss Injections

You can buy weight loss injections such as Wegovy, Saxenda and Mounjaro online at UK Meds as a weight management aid to assist you in achieving a healthy weight. Simply complete our online consultation process and, if approved by our independent doctors, you can continue to order your weight loss medications and have it delivered straight to your door via tracked delivery.

Where can I buy weight loss tablets?

Buy Weight Loss Tablets

You can buy weight loss tablets such as Orlistat, Xenical and Alli online at UK Meds as a weight management aid. Simply complete our online consultation process and, if approved by our independent doctors, you can continue to order your weight loss treatment medication and have it delivered straight to your door via tracked delivery.

Obesity FAQs

Obesity is a health condition that relates to an individual's body weight and BMI. You'll find answers to common questions that our team get asked about obesity below.

What is obesity?

The World Health Organisation (2024) define obesity someone with an excessive or abnormal accumulation of fat, within their body weight composition, that presents a risk to health. Obesity has been linked to lower energy levels and fatigue (Frank et al, 2022).

When are you classed a clinically obese?

You are classed as obese if your BMI (body mass index) is between the range of 30-39.9. A BMI of 40 or more is considered severely obese (NICE, 2023).

Can you be overweight but not obese?

Yes, it's possible to be overweight but not obese. You would be classed as clinically overweight if your BMI is in the range between 25 and 30 and classed as obese if your BMI is above 30 (The House of Commons Library, 2023).

How prevalent is obesity in the UK?

According to the NHS (2023), it is estimated that 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 5 children aged 10-11 are living with obesity in the UK.

What are the health risks of obesity?

Obesity can cause further health problems including type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heart disease, high blood pressure and more (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Does obesity affect fat cell production?

Yes, body fat cells are created at a faster rate in people who suffer from obesity (approximately twice as many new fat cells annually compared to a leaner individual) and similarly, an obese person's existing fat cells will die at a faster rate than someone who is lean (Medical News Today, 2022).

How can obesity be treated?

The best and most sustainable way to treat obesity and avoid weight regain is a weight loss journey that includes a lifestyle change including regular exercise and a healthy, reduced-calorie intake diet (NHS Inform, 2023). Additionally, regular physical activity and a healthy diet can improve how effective weight loss medications such as semaglutide, liraglutide and terzepatide are in treating obesity (Grave, R.; 2024).

For those who are dangerously obese, bariatric surgery (or weight loss surgery) such as a gastric band is also an option but it comes with risks (Bupa UK, 2021), scarring and a hefty price tag (NHS, 2024), so it should be considered a last resort, rather than a quick fix to achieve weight loss goals.

Weight Loss Experiences

Every individual's weight loss journey is unique to them and they will all have different experiences. Take a look at some independent experiences of people's weight loss journeys below that include natural weight loss treatments such as increased exercise and healthy dietary choices:

The above independent experiences are only for informational purposes and may not be suitable for your individual weight loss requirements. Always consult your doctor for appropriate weight loss advice that is safe and suitable for you.

Weight Loss Medication FAQs

Below you'll find answers to common question our team get asked about relating to prescription weight loss medication.

What can cause weight gain?

Weight gain occurs when you consume more calories from food and drinks than your body uses for energy. The extra calories are stored as fat, leading to weight gain.

1. Medical Conditions

Certain health issues can make weight gain more likely. These include:

• Hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism.
• Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2).
• Cushing’s Syndrome, a hormonal disorder.
• Insomnia and depression, which can affect appetite and energy use.

If you think a medical condition is behind your weight gain, seek advice from your GP to address the root cause and explore weight management strategies.

2. Poor Diet

Eating habits play a major role in weight gain. Factors that can contribute include:

• Sugary Drinks: Includes milkshakes, fizzy drinks, and fruit juices over 150ml, all of which are high in sugars.
• Fast Food and Processed Foods: Often loaded with unhealthy fats and refined sugars.
• Alcohol: Packed with hidden calories and sugars.
• Overeating: Large portions or frequent snacking can lead to consuming more calories than needed. This portion size guide by the British Dietetic Association (BDA) is a good starting point.
• Comfort eating - due to stress, emotional factors and/or poor sleep (NICHD, 2021)

Making balanced food choices and controlling portion sizes can help manage calorie intake.

3. Medicines

Weight gain can be a side effect of certain medications. Examples include:

• Antipsychotic drugs.
• Birth control pills.
• Oral corticosteroids.
• Antiepileptics.

If you suspect your medication is contributing to weight gain, consult your GP about possible alternatives.

4. Lack of Exercise

Not getting enough physical activity means your body burns fewer calories, making it easier to store fat. Regular exercise not only increases the calories your body uses but also boosts metabolism, supporting long-term weight management.

Mendis & Wiggins (2023) also mention other contributing lifestyle factors such as:

• Your age
• Menopause
• Genetics
• Lack of sleep
• Stress and lifestyle factors
• Appropriate weight gain

Take Action

Weight gain happens when your body takes in more calories than it uses, storing the excess as fat. Several factors can contribute to this imbalance, including diet, lifestyle, medications, and health conditions.

When should I consider losing weight?

A good starting point for understanding whether you should consider losing weight is by checking your body mass index (BMI).

What Is BMI?

BMI is a tool that uses your height and weight to classify your weight status:

• Underweight: Less than 18.5
• Healthy Range: 18.5 to 24.9
• Overweight: 25 to 29.9
• Obese: 30 or higher

However, BMI has limitations. It doesn’t distinguish between fat, muscle, bone, or water weight. For example:

• Muscular individuals might be classified as overweight.
• Low muscle individuals may appear healthy despite having high body fat.

Body Fat Percentage as an alternative measure

A better way to assess obesity is by measuring body fat percentage.

• Body fat over 25% is typically considered obese.

• Visit the British Heart Foundation (BHF) website for a guide on measuring body fat.

Risks of Obesity

While obesity may not pose immediate health threats, the long-term risks can include:

1. Cardiovascular Diseases: High blood pressure, heart attack, stroke.
2. Sexual Dysfunction:
   • Women: Irregular menstruation, infertility.
   • Men: Erectile dysfunction.
3. Increased Cancer Risk: Uterus, ovary, breast, prostate, liver, colon, oesophagus, and kidney.
4. Other Health Issues:
   • Low self-esteem.
   • Sleep apnoea.
   • Osteoarthritis.
   • Gastro-intestinal diseases.
   • Certain types of diabetes.

What are the benefits of weight loss?

Reduced risk of Type-2 Diabetes, Cancer and Heart Problems

Losing weight and maintaining a healthy BMI can ease your breathing, improve your confidence and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart problems (Diabetes UK, 2023). It can also lead to sagging skin and gallstones though so losing weight at a safe rate is better than aiming for immediate results (Everyday Health, 2018). There has also been a link between weight loss and depression, which could be due to overweight people using binge-eating to mask other issues, or tying weight loss to the key to happiness and therefore feeling unfulfilled when they achieve or struggle to achieve it (Healthline, 2021). Commit to working through any emotional or psychological issues at the same time as trying to lose the excess weight.

Always consult with your doctor or health care provider for advice on the most appropriate course of weight loss treatment to aid your personal weight loss journey, to ensure that you lose weight in an appropriate, safe and sustainable way to suit your individual needs and continue to maintain a healthy weight.

Can weight loss improve high blood pressure?

Yes. Healthy forms of weight loss management such as exercise and a well-balanced diet have proven effective in improving high blood pressure in overweight individuals (Bacon et al, 2004).

Can weight loss cause hair loss?

Stress on the body and/or nutrient deficiencies can potentially cause hair loss after weight loss achieved through weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery) or restrictive dieting, although this type of hair loss is typically only a temporary condition, medically called ‘telogen effluvium’.

How can I lose weight?

Losing weight starts with a balanced approach to diet and physical activity (BBC Good Food, 2014). While weight loss medications can help in certain situations, focusing on forming healthy habits consistently is key to long-term success (Cox, C; 2017).

1. Control Your Diet

• Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods, and fibre-packed carbohydrates.

• Snack Wisely: Choose low-calorie options like air-popped popcorn or rice cakes instead of high-sugar or high-fat snacks.

• Limit Sugary and Fatty Foods: Avoid keeping unhealthy snacks at home to resist temptation.

• Drink Smart: Choose water or sugar-free drinks instead of sugary beverages or alcohol.

For a sustainable plan, don’t deny yourself all treats—just enjoy them in moderation.

Set realistic goals and focus on small, manageable steps. A structured plan can help you stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.

• Regular exercise is essential for weight loss. Even 150 minutes of physical activity per week can make a big difference (NHS, 2023).

• Start with short, manageable sessions to build momentum and avoid burnout.

Exercise not only helps you burn calories but also supports your overall health and well-being.

Google Web Story: How To Lose Weight

UK Meds have created a Google Web Story guide to explain how to lose weight, covering medical and lifestyle-focused weight loss treatments. You can view it below:

Lifestyle Changes to Lose Weight

Losing weight involves a mix of healthy eating, regular physical activity, and maintaining a positive mindset. Making these changes can help you achieve long-term success.

1. Well-Being

Weight loss affects not only your body but also your emotions and mental state.

• Be Kind to Yourself: Accept that setbacks happen, and focus on moving forward.
• Set Small Goals: Start your day with simple, achievable tasks to build motivation for bigger challenges.
• Keep a Journal: Write down your feelings, experiences, and progress weekly to reflect on your journey.
• Seek Support: Speaking with a trained therapist or psychologist can help you navigate emotional challenges and build lasting habits.

2. Diet

Adjusting your eating habits is essential for sustainable weight loss.

• Balanced Nutrition: Include a variety of food groups to meet your body’s needs:
  • Vegetables: Aim for 3-5+ portions daily.
  • Protein: 2-3 portions a day (combine animal and plant-based sources).
  • Fruits: 1-3 portions daily for natural energy.
  • Carbohydrates: 2-3 portions daily for steady energy.
  • Fats: 1-2 portions a day, prioritising healthy fats like oily fish and plant oils.
• Smart Snacking: Swap high-calorie snacks for lighter options like rice cakes or popcorn.
• Avoid Fad Diets: Extreme restrictions can be unsustainable and lead to unhealthy habits. Focus on gradual, long-term changes.

For personalised advice, consult a dietitian or GP.

3. Exercise

Incorporating movement into your daily routine boosts weight loss and improves overall health.

• Start small with 30 minutes of physical activity per day, as recommended by the NHS.
• Choose activities you enjoy, such as walking, cycling, or dancing, to stay motivated.
• For guidance and safety, consider working with a personal trainer when starting a new exercise programme.

Key takeaway:

Combining a balanced diet, regular activity, and emotional well-being creates a strong foundation for weight loss. With achievable goals and support from professionals, you can build healthy habits that last a lifetime. Consult your GP or healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.

Weight Loss Tablets

If your BMI is greater than 30 and you haven't been able to lose weight through natural weight loss treatments such as diet and exercise alone, your doctor / health care provider may suggest weight loss tablets (also referred to commonly as ‘diet pills’) as an anti obesity medication to aid your journey if they deem it appropriate for your individual needs (Mayo Clinic, 2022). UK Meds offer the weight loss tablets Xenical, Orlistat and Alli.

For more information on any of the weight loss tablets, please refer to the patient information provided with the medication:

• Medicines.org.uk - Patient Information Leaflet for Xenical
• Medicines.org.uk - Patient Information Leaflet for Alli
• Teva UK - Patient Information Leaflet for Orlistat

Surgery

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric or metabolic surgery, is a medical option for individuals who are severely obese and have not found success with other weight loss methods. In some cases, the NHS may cover the procedure if certain criteria are met.

Types of Weight Loss Surgery

1. Lap Band

An adjustable band is placed around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. This limits food intake and helps you feel full after eating smaller meals.

2. Gastric Bypass

This procedure involves attaching part of your stomach to a lower section of the intestine. By bypassing a significant portion of the stomach and intestine, fewer calories and nutrients are absorbed.

3. Gastric Sleeve

In this surgery, 80-85% of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, tube-like stomach. This reduces the amount of food needed to feel full.

Is surgery right for me?

Weight loss surgery is usually considered a last resort for those with severe obesity. Consult your GP or healthcare provider to determine if this is a suitable option for your health and weight management goals. For NHS coverage, specific eligibility requirements must be met.

How do weight loss tablets work?

Orlistat (also known by the brand names Xenical and Alli) helps with weight loss by targeting the way your body processes fat:

• It attaches to enzymes in your digestive system that usually break down fat.
• This stops some of the fat you eat from being digested and absorbed by your body.
• Instead of being stored as extra weight, the undigested fat is removed through your bowel movements.

This process helps reduce the number of calories your body absorbs from fat, supporting weight loss.

How should you use a weight loss pill?

You should only use weight loss pills to achieve body weight reduction as instructed by your doctor or health care provider, to ensure that any diet pill weight management medication is being taken in the safest way to suit your individual requirements. Weight loss supplements should not be a substitute for healthy eating habits.

Weight Loss Injections and Pens

If your BMI is over 30 and you’re considered obese, then you can aid your weight loss mission with help from GLP 1 Agonist weight loss injections at UK Meds, if your doctor recommends them as a suitable course of weight loss treatment for you to achieve your weight loss goal (British Heart Foundation, 2024). Offering effective results as an appetite suppressant, we stock a range of prescription GLP 1 Receptor Agonist weight loss injections that can aid diet and exercise in your weight loss journey, provided they have been recommended by your doctor.

Weight loss injections offered by UK Meds include:

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) weight loss pen
• Wegovy (semaglutide) weight loss pen
• Saxenda (liraglutide) weight loss pen

Weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Saxenda, are designed to support weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. These injectable medications are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, offering effective solutions for those struggling with weight management.

Types of Weight Loss Injections

Wegovy

• Active Ingredient: Semaglutide
• How It Works: Regulates appetite by reducing hunger, leading to fewer calories consumed.
• Effectiveness: Helps patients lose an average of 15% of body weight.
• Frequency: Once weekly.
• Eligibility: Prescribed for individuals with a BMI over 30, or 27.5 with risk factors.
• Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea or constipation

Mounjaro

• Active Ingredient: Tirzepatide
• How It Works: A highly effective GLP-1 receptor agonist that aids weight loss and improves metabolic health.
• Effectiveness: Helps patients lose up to 20% of body weight, outperforming other injections.
• Frequency: Once weekly.
• Eligibility: Started at a low dose (2.5mg) and increased gradually to a maintenance dose (up to 15mg).

Saxenda

• Active Ingredient: Liraglutide
• How It Works: Suppresses appetite to reduce calorie intake, similar to Wegovy but requires daily dosing.
• Effectiveness: Helps patients lose approximately 10% of body weight.
• Frequency: Once daily.
• Eligibility: Prescribed for a BMI over 30, or 27.5 with risk factors.

Ozempic

• Active Ingredient: Semaglutide
• How It Works: Primarily licensed for treating Type 2 diabetes in the UK but often prescribed off-label for weight loss.
• Effectiveness: Effective in aiding weight loss, although not officially licensed for this purpose.
• Frequency: Once weekly.
• Note: To protect supply chains for diabetic patients, some providers do not prescribe Ozempic for weight loss.

Comparison Table

For more information on any of the medical weight loss injections, please refer to the patient information provided with the medication:

• Medicines.org.uk - Patient Information Leaflet for Wegovy Weight Loss Injection
• Medicines.org.uk - Patient Information Leaflet for Saxenda Weight Loss Injection
• Medicines.org.uk - Patient Information Leaflet for Mounjaro KwikPen Weight Loss Injection

How do weight loss injections work?

Weight loss injections like Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Saxenda® help reduce body weight by targeting how your brain controls appetite:

• These medications work on receptors in the brain to make you feel fuller and less hungry.
• This can help you eat less, which supports weight loss over time.

Additional health benefits:

Besides helping with weight loss, these medications (known as GLP-1 receptor agonists) may also:

• Lower blood pressure.
• Reduce blood sugar levels.
• Improve cholesterol levels.

If you’re considering weight loss injections, consult your doctor to ensure they’re safe and suitable for your individual needs.

How should you use weight loss injections?

You should only use and dose a weight loss injection as instructed by your doctor or health care provider to ensure it is being taken in the safest way to suit your individual requirements as a weight loss aid. Weight loss injections are not a substitute for increased physical activity and regular exercise (which itself is a very effective natural way to promote fat burning / fat metabolism and overall fat loss) and a sticking to a healthy diet and consuming fewer calories.

If your doctor recommends prescription only medications, we have a range of options available.

What if weight loss treatments don’t work?

Weight loss medications can help, but they’re not a magic fix. To see the best results, you’ll need to:

• Commit to a healthy lifestyle with balanced eating and regular exercise.
• Set measurable goals to help you reach your desired weight.

Tips for success

• Read the patient information leaflet for helpful advice on using your medication correctly.
• If you need extra guidance, feel free to contact the provider or pharmacist for advice.

When treatments don’t work

If the medication doesn’t suit you or doesn’t deliver results, contact your GP as soon as possible. They can assess your situation and recommend alternative treatments or adjustments to your weight loss plan.

Staying proactive and seeking professional advice is key to achieving your goals.

Are weight loss injections useful for long-term weight management?

Yes, weight loss injections can be effective for managing weight over the long term when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

• Better results: Studies show they lead to more significant and sustained weight loss compared to just diet and exercise.
• Lifestyle changes: For the best results, injections should be paired with balanced eating and regular exercise.
• Ongoing use: Long-term use under the guidance of a doctor is often needed to maintain weight loss.

References:

• Mayo Clinic - Weight Loss Drugs
• NHS - Obesity Treatment
• WebMD - Prescription Weight Loss Medicine
• NIDDK - Prescription Medication to Treat Overweight and Obesity
• NICE - Weight Loss Drug Recommended for Specialist NHS Services
• Harvard Health - Understanding New Weight Loss Drugs
• Drugs.com - Prescription Weight Loss Drugs
• UK Government - New Drugs Pilot to Tackle Obesity
• Drugs.com - Obesity
• Weight management: lifestyle services for overweight or obese adults - The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
• Obesity: Six trials to watch over the next 12 months - Clinical Trials Arena

UK Meds Weight Loss Support Resources:

• UK Meds - Am I Fat Quiz
• UK Meds - The Skinny Jab Uncovered: The Truth About Skinny Jabs
• UK Meds - Your Complete Buyer's Guide: Ordering Mounjaro in the UK
• UK Meds - A Buyer's Guide For Wegovy In The UK
• UK Meds - A Beginner's Guide to Zepbound Weight Loss Injections in the UK
• UK Meds - The Skinny Jab Uncovered: The Truth About Skinny Jabs
• UK Meds - Guide Using A Wegovy Injection: Advice, Tips and Recommendations
• UK Meds - Guide To The Benefits and Risks of Using Wegovy
• UK Meds - How to Take Mounjaro
• UK Meds - Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro?
• UK Meds - Do you gain weight back after stopping Mounjaro?
• UK Meds - How long do Mounjaro side effects last?
• UK Meds - Is tirzepatide approved for weight loss in the UK?
• UK Meds - A Simple Guide To Mounjaro Dosing & Titration Calendar: When & How To Take The Tirzepatide Injection For Weight Loss
• UK Meds - Guide To Wegovy Dosing & Titration: When & How To Take The Semaglutide Injection For Weight Loss
• UK Meds - Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Comparing the Weight Loss Injections
• UK Meds - Ozempic Shortage UK
• UK Meds - Mounjaro Shortage UK
• UK Meds - Saxenda Shortage UK
• UK Meds - Wegovy Shortage UK
• UK Meds - Guide to Wegovy for Weight Loss
• UK Meds - A Beginner’s Guide to Mounjaro for Weight Loss
• UK Meds - Doctor's Corner: Your Questions About Saxenda Answered By A Doctor
  
• UK Meds - Doctor's Corner: Your Questions About Wegovy Answered
• UK Meds - Role of Saxenda in Weight Loss and Diabetes
• UK Meds - Saxenda Weight Loss Cycle
• UK Meds - How Much Does Saxenda Cost in the UK
• UK Meds - Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Prioritise Sleep for Weight Loss
• UK Meds - The Menopause Diet 5-Day Plan to Lose Weight
• UK Meds - Health Problems Associated with Obesity
• UK Meds - Top Tips for Weight Loss
• UK Meds - How to Lose Weight at Home
• UK Meds - How to Lose Weight
• UK Meds - How Many Calories Do You Need to Lose Weight
• UK Meds - Appetite Suppressants: Can They Really Aid Weight Loss?
• UK Meds - How Long Does It Take for Orlistat Tablets to Work?
• UK Meds - Metformin for Weight Loss
• UK Meds - How Fast Can You Lose Weight on Orlistat?
• UK Meds - How Much Weight Can You Lose on Orlistat?
• UK Meds - Who Can Take Orlistat?
• UK Meds - How to Lose Water Weight
• UK Meds - What Is Keto?
• UK Meds - How Does Orlistat Help with Weight Loss?
• UK Meds - How to Get the Best Results from Orlistat
• UK Meds - Can Losing Weight Treat Erectile Dysfunction?
• UK Meds - What to Eat When Taking Orlistat
• UK Meds - Wegovy London: Buying Wegovy in London
• UK Meds - Wegovy Edinburgh: Buying Wegovy in Edinburgh
• UK Meds - Metformin for Diabetes and Weight Loss
• UK Meds - Benefits of Giving Up Alcohol for a Month