Prescription-weight-loss

Explore the world of doctor-prescribed diet pills, their benefits, risks, and how they can be a part of a comprehensive weight loss plan. Learn about safe and effective options and how they differ from over-the-counter supplements.

Four weight loss medications are currently available in the UK: orlistat (Xenical/Alli), liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Tirzepatide produces the highest weight loss (20.9% in SURMOUNT-1) but is the newest and most costly. Choice depends on BMI, medical history, tolerability, and NHS eligibility.

UK prescription weight loss medications (orlistat, semaglutide, liraglutide, naltrexone/bupropion) have defined NICE prescribing criteria, documented clinical trial evidence, and specific monitoring requirements. This article covers the approved medications, how to access them through NHS and private routes, and realistic expectations from clinical data.

Four medications are currently licensed for weight management in the UK: orlistat (Xenical/Alli), liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Phentermine is not licensed in the UK. NICE eligibility criteria vary by medication: BMI ≥30 (≥27 with comorbidity) for orlistat and Saxenda; BMI ≥35 for Wegovy (NHS specialised services); BMI ≥35 with T2D or prediabetes for Mounjaro (NHS). Private prescriptions available at lower BMI thresholds.