How do weight loss injections work?

What are weight loss injections?

Weight loss injections are a newer option compared to pills, shakes and supplements. They’re popular in part because many are taken just once a week instead of daily and can be administered at home with minimal effort.

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How do weight loss injections work?

Similar to insulin or hormonal injections, weight loss injections come in small, manageable syringes that can be inserted into the thigh, upper arm or abdomen right at home. While weight loss injections require a prescription and a doctor’s care, you don’t have to visit your doctor to use them.

Weight loss injections boost the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone, which is a naturally produced hormone in the intestines that regulates blood sugar levels, appetite and digestion. These drugs aid weight loss by curbing your appetite and helping you feel full longer.

Your body makes the GLP-1 hormone. But in people who deal with chronic obesity or Type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 hormone levels are often deficient. Weight loss injections work to boost GLP-1 levels by inhibiting hormones that often block or suppress this helpful hormone.

You might hear weight loss injections referred to as GLP-1 receptor agonists. According to Shelley Balls, a registered dietitian nutritionist with Flawless Bloom, these agonists help slow gastric emptying, promote a feeling of fullness and decrease glucose levels after eating — all of which can assist in your weight loss attempts.

Are weight loss injections effective?

Weight loss injections have been shown to be effective in clinical trials. A recent study showed that people who injected semaglutide once weekly lost nearly 15% of their body weight; those using liraglutide lost about 6%.

“These drugs have also been shown to decrease blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose and liver fat,” Balls said. So it’s not just about losing body fat — it’s about an overall healthier body that’s at less risk of a major health crisis, like a heart attack or stroke.

Your doctor can help you determine which brand of weight loss injectable medication is right for your situation. But it’s important to remember that lifestyle changes, such as consistent exercise and healthier eating habits, are what can help sustain the weight loss that occurs from using injectable weight loss medication.

Those who pair GLP-1 drugs with regular physical activity and a well-balanced diet tend to see the best results and keep the weight off long term, Balls said.

Are weight loss injections safe?

Even though some injectable weight loss drugs are FDA-approved and have been extensively tested, Balls points out they’re still relatively new overall. As such, “I always recommend giving diet and regular physical activity 100% of your effort for quite some time before starting weight loss drugs,” she said.

The biggest risk consumers face is an increased occurrence of fraudulent and illegal selling online. “Be aware that illegally purchased weight loss drugs may be adulterated, contaminated, improperly stored and transported, ineffective or even potentially unsafe,” said Balls.

“Phrases like ‘cheap Ozempic’ and ‘no prescription needed’ are perhaps the biggest red flags when identifying fraudulent drugs. Remember if anything sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” she continued.

What are the side effects of injectable weight loss medications?

Weight loss medications are effective, but they come with a long list of potential side effects you should be aware of before starting one of these drugs. While about 15% of people quit taking the drug due to side effects, most find they subside over time.

Common side effects include:

• Bloating
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Excess fatigue
• Gas
• Hair loss
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Hormonal imbalances
• Increased heart rate
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Raised blood pressure
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting

How much do weight loss injections cost?

The average cost of weight loss injections at the time of publication ranges from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. According to Balls, weight loss drugs that are FDA-approved are more likely to be covered by health insurance in the future. But in many cases, insurance doesn’t currently cover the cost of these drugs.

Look for coupons or online savings programs to help lower your out-of-pocket costs.

Data from the Kaiser Family Foundation finds that only one in four people (24%) had the cost of their weight loss medication fully covered by insurance. About 20% of injection users pay the entire cost out of pocket. And since these drugs are meant for long-term weight management, the expenses can add up quickly.

Things like coupons or online savings programs can help assuage the high cost of weight loss medications. In some cases, your insurance might cover a portion of the cost, which can be helpful.

How to discuss weight loss injections with your doctor

Your doctor can help you decide if using an injectable weight loss medication is the right choice for you. It’s a good idea to come to your appointment armed with plenty of questions that can help you clearly understand everything you need to know about these drugs.

Before your visit, think through your goals for your health and your weight since these types of things can inform the conversation you have with your doctor.

Here are some helpful questions to ask your doctor before starting weight loss injections:

• Will this drug help my specific situation?
• How much weight can I expect to lose on this drug, and how long might that take?
• How long will I need to take this medication?
• Should I expect to gain weight when I discontinue this medication?
• What sorts of lifestyle modifications should I make in order to ensure taking this drug is successful?
• What sorts of drug interactions should I be aware of?
• What are the side effects of this drug?
• Are there any alternatives to taking this medication?
• What types of things would warrant a call to your office while I’m taking this medication?

Are weight loss injections worth it?

Yes, injectable weight loss medications can be an effective way to lose significant weight, especially for those dealing with obesity. They’re easy to use and require just one dose a week instead of daily injections.

These medications often start working right away, with many people realizing benefits within the first few months. If you’re dealing with obesity, Type 2 diabetes or both, an injectable weight loss medication can have a positive impact on your overall health and wellness when combined with healthier lifestyle habits.

While weight loss injections are effective, they’re also expensive, and some people report stopping the medication due to side effects. But for those who can afford it and find that they can tolerate the drug, many say the results are worth the cost.