Weight loss injections like Saxenda, Mounjaro, and Ozempic have gained popularity for managing obesity. Although healthy lifestyle changes remain the most sustainable approach, combining them with these injections has led to impressive weight loss results.

However, it’s essential to understand a few key points before starting to use any type of weight loss injection.

1- They Suppress Appetite

These weight-loss injections, despite containing different active ingredients, work similarly by mimicking the GLP-1hormone. This hormone slows stomach emptying, reduces appetite, and promotes a feeling of fullness, all contributing to weight loss. (1)

2- More Effective ThanWeight-Loss Pills

Compared to weight loss pills like Orlistat (Xenical), which may result in a 5-7% reduction in body weight with diet and exercise, injections often lead to more significant weight loss reaching 10-20% of body weight, making them an attractive option for many. (2)

3- Not Suitable for Everyone

Weight-loss injections are generally prescribed for people with a BMI of 30or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher if they have weight-related health issues, such as high blood pressure or cholesterol. 

These injections are not intended for individuals aiming to shed just a few kilograms; they’re designed for those facing significant health risks due to obesity.It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider to determine if these injection sare appropriate and safe for you. (3)

4- Mounjaro is The Most Potent

All three injections—(Saxenda, Ozempic, Mounjaro) — are more effective than other weight loss medications, but Mounjaro stands out as the most potent, with some patients experiencing weight loss exceeding 20%. However, individual results may vary depending on personal health factors. (4)

• Liraglutide (Saxenda): Helps users lose about 8% of their body weight, with the potential to reach 11.5-16% when combined with diet and exercise.
• Semaglutide (Ozempic): It has been reported that it can help lose 15-17% of weight when combined with lifestyle changes.
• Tirzepatide (Mounjaro): Targets two hunger-related receptors, unlike Saxenda and Ozempic, which target only one.This dual action has led to more substantial weight loss, possibly exceeding over 18-20% of weight.

Despite their efficacy, bariatric surgeries (likegastric sleeve or bypass surgery) remain the most effective long-term solutions for severe obesity, often resulting in up to 60% weight loss within 6 months, and up to 77% within 12 months after surgery. (5) 

Consultour endocrinologists for a comprehensive consultation on your condition to determine whether weight-loss injections are suitable for your health needs.

5- Administered Once Daily or Weekly

Saxenda requires daily injections, while newer options like Mounjaro and Ozempic are administered just once weekly. (1)

These injections are similar to insulin pens and can be easily self-injected under the skin into the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. (1)

6- Weight Gain is Possible after Discontinuation

Since obesity is a chronic condition, stopping these medications may lead to gradual weight regain, this highlights the importance of making long-term diet and lifestyle adjustments to maintain weight loss. (6)

7- GI Side Effects and Thyroid Cancer Warning

These injections are generally safe when usedunder the supervision of a healthcare provider, though, like any medication, they may cause side effects.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue, which often decrease after the first few weeks of use.

Seriousside effects are rare and include: pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or depression. Therefore, it's crucial to report any symptoms to your physician during regular check-ups.

Additionally, there is a potential risk of thyroid cancer based on animal studies in rats, though this has not been conclusively proven in humans. These injections are contraindicated for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2).(1) 

References

1. Patient - What are weight loss injections and are they safe?
2. Health Harvard - Understanding new weight-loss drugs
3. OMA - Top Weight Loss Medications
4. The Lancet - GLP-1 single, dual, and triple receptor agonists for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity: a narrative review
5. American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery - Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
6. Medscape - Help Patients Prevent Weight Gain After Stopping GLP-1s