Fat jabs – what’s the difference?

Weight loss jabs – they’re the talk of the town and with demand for them soaring, we have a sneaky feeling they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon either.

Weight loss injections haven’t been out of the headlines over the past few months and have been hailed as a breakthrough in the fight against obesity.

Marketed as a potential solution to the UK’s obesity crisis, their rise to prominence has sparked both enthusiasm and controversy. For a phenomenon that has such visible results, there is huge secrecy around weight-loss drugs so let’s take a look at what we know.

For adults exploring medical options for weight loss, the emergence of weight loss injections—or “skinny jabs” as they’re often called—has attracted significant attention. These treatments are designed to assist individuals struggling with weight management, but with multiple options available, it’s important to understand how they differ.

What’s the hype all about?

Weight loss injections are prescribed medications containing ingredients that mimic glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone naturally released after eating. GLP-1 promotes feelings of fullness, curbing appetite and helping you consume fewer calories. Some newer injections also imitate another hormone, GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), enhancing metabolic and appetite regulation.

These medications, usually provided in pre-filled injection pens, are typically combined with a structured diet and exercise plan as part of a broader weight management programme.

What are my options?

Among the most discussed weight loss injections in the UK are Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Saxenda (liraglutide). Below is an overview of each:

1. Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

• Mechanism: Mounjaro is a dual-acting hormone mimicker, targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual approach amplifies appetite suppression and fat regulation.
• Dosage: Self-injected weekly, starting at 2.5mg and building up to 15mg.
• Effectiveness: Can lead to a weight loss of up to 22.5% of initial body weight over 72 weeks at the highest dose.
• Frequency: Once weekly.
• Cost: Prices start at £170 per month.

2. Wegovy (Semaglutide)

• Mechanism: A GLP-1 receptor agonist that slows digestion, reduces hunger, and increases satiety.
• Dosage: Weekly injections, with doses gradually increasing to a maintenance level of 2.4mg.
• Effectiveness: Clinical trials show weight loss of up to 15% of initial body weight over 68 weeks.
• Frequency: Once weekly.
• Cost: Prices range from £195 to £295 per month, depending on the dose.
• Special Note: Unlike Ozempic, which contains the same active ingredient but is approved for type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is specifically licensed for weight loss.

3. Saxenda (Liraglutide)

• Mechanism: Works similarly to other GLP-1 agonists by curbing appetite and promoting a feeling of fullness.
• Dosage: Daily injections, starting at 0.6mg and increasing weekly to a maximum of 3.0mg.
• Effectiveness: Clinical trials suggest it helps achieve an average weight reduction of 8% over 56 weeks.
• Frequency: Once daily.
• Cost: Prices vary but are typically more affordable than weekly options like Wegovy and Mounjaro.

How do I know which one to pick?

• Active Ingredients: While all three are GLP-1 receptor agonists, Mounjaro’s dual-action mechanism sets it apart, offering additional benefits through GIP receptor activation.
• Frequency: Saxenda requires daily injections, compared to the more convenient weekly schedule of Wegovy and Mounjaro.
• Effectiveness: Mounjaro leads the pack in terms of average weight loss achieved, followed by Wegovy and then Saxenda.

Will they make me sick?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and digestive discomfort, particularly in the early stages as the body adjusts. Rare but serious risks like pancreatitis, kidney issues, or allergic reactions have also been reported. Gradual dose escalation helps mitigate these effects.

What’s next?

The “best” weight loss injection depends on your medical history, weight loss goals, lifestyle preferences, and the frequency and cost of treatments. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential to determine which option suits your needs.

Weight loss injections represent a significant development in tackling obesity, but they should be considered a tool within a broader strategy involving sustainable lifestyle changes.

Do you have a story about your weight loss jab journey? Email holly@harleystreetcommunications.co.uk