Why Weight?
Was it something we said? Last month we talked about possible actions you might consider for your personal health at the start of a new year, and since then we’ve received an unprecedented number of emails and calls asking about weight loss, specifically ‘Fat Jabs’. For that reason, we decided to devote this month’s newsletter to an introduction to the weight loss phenomenon that seems to have taken the world (well, certainly the media) by storm.
THE WEIGHT OF THE MATTER
Here are the most common questions we are currently being asked about weight loss medication:
What is a ‘Fat Jab’?
A ‘Fat Jab’ refers to a medication that can be injected into the body to help weight loss. Common brand names for this medication that have become well-recognised in the last couple of years include ‘Ozempic’ (semaglutide approved in the US by the FDA in 2017) ‘Wegovy’, (also semaglutide, but a higher dose which was approved in 2021) and ‘Mounjaro’ (tirzepatide approved in 2022).
How does it work?
Injections are made weekly and the medication curbs an individual’s appetite by mimicking hormones that tell the brain the body is full. It also slows the stomach emptying and promotes the sensation of feeling fuller for longer, so an individual wants to eat less, reduces their calorie intake to a deficit and starts to lose weight.
Where is it available?
The NHS can prescribe Ozempic to treat patients with Type 2 Diabetes, a BMI of 30 or more, and/or weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure. The NHS does not provide medication solely for weight loss, and whilst Ozempic may be prescribed privately by private doctors, it is not licenced for that purpose unlike other brands. Mounjaro is proving to be a highly effective medication, available for purchase with a valid UK prescription.
Well, that sounds easy…
Any weight loss medication should be combined with diet and exercise, so you should consider starting with those two things to see what effect they have first.
Are there any side effects?
Common side effects identified so far have included varying levels of nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, indigestion, heartburn and bloating. There have been reports of tiredness, physical fatigue and headaches, and cases of hair loss, effects on blood sugar and links to problems with the pancreas, kidneys and gallstones. There is also the possibility that weight loss medication can interfere with the contraceptive pill. The most important thing to remember is that, unless there are changes in lifestyle, appetite and weight can return once the medication has stopped and no one should consider taking it indefinitely.
Best avoid it then?
Not necessarily. Approved medications do not become available without scrutiny and testing. However, as with all new products, weight loss medication is being constantly monitored and reviewed. The two most important things to remember when taking weight loss medication are:
- Regular communication, management and advice from your doctor (this is where AccessU comes in)
- Stay hydrated (drinking lots of fluids, especially in cases of diarrhoea and vomiting, is crucial to the body’s wellbeing)
Our Policy
At AccessU, we only prescribe weight loss medication after a consultation and any tests we think are needed to ensure the patient is embarking on an appropriate weight loss journey for them.
It might be that we recommend a plan of action before looking at weight loss medication, or it could be that we need to consider family history or any existing medication being taken, and we always check in with patients in order to minimise and manage any possible side effects.
In short, we are committed to remaining by the side of our patients to ensure safety, effectiveness and, ultimately, value for the investment in your health and wellbeing.
THIS MONTH’S TIP:
Perimenopause & Menopause
As women approach their 40s and 50s, hormonal changes in the body begin to influence their physical and emotional wellbeing.
‘Perimenopause’ is the term used to refer to the transitional period leading up to menopause.
Symptoms of Perimenopause include irregular periods, hot flushes, sleep disturbance, mood changes, brain fog, vaginal dryness and changes in libido. Menopause itself marks the end of menstrual cycle, but symptoms can continue for years beyond the final period.
The good news is that these symptoms can be managed in many ways. Lifestyle approaches such as improved sleep routines, regular exercise, reducing alcohol and adopting a balanced diet can make a meaningful difference, while treatments, such as moisturisers and certain medications can help specific symptoms. ‘Hormone Replacement Therapy’ (commonly known as HRT) is also an option that many women find highly effective.
Discussing any changes you are experiencing with a GP can be extremely valuable to explain what is going on, review personal and family medical history, explore treatment options and provide tailored advice. They can also help monitor symptoms over time and adjust treatment as needed. Book an appointment with your GP to give you clarity, support and a personalised plan – you don’t have to navigate this alone.