Weight-loss-injections

GLP-1 receptor agonist injections (semaglutide, liraglutide) are the primary injectable weight loss medications available in the UK. This article examines their mechanism, the clinical trial evidence for efficacy, documented side effects, and the difference between NHS-prescribed and private clinic access.

The NHS now has access to multiple GLP-1 receptor agonist medications for weight management. This guide explains how they work, what the clinical evidence shows, and the criteria for NHS access.

A clear, evidence-based guide to the FDA-approved weight loss injections available in 2025 — how they work, how effective they are, who qualifies, and what to expect.

Three injectable weight loss medications are licensed in the UK: liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Head-to-head trial data shows tirzepatide produces the greatest weight loss (~20.9%), followed by semaglutide (~14.9%), then liraglutide (~8.4%). This article compares them across efficacy, side effects, dose schedule, and UK licensing.