What to Know Before Trying a Weight-Reducing Injection

Medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), and others are now being prescribed more frequently to help individuals lose weight through appetite suppression and blood sugar regulation. However, while these injections may seem like a quick fix, there are several critical factors to consider before starting them.

This article covers what weight-reducing injections are, how they work, who they are meant for, the potential benefits and risks, and important considerations before deciding whether this approach is right for you.

What Are Weight-Reducing Injections?

Weight-reducing injections are prescription medications administered via subcutaneous injection (under the skin) that aid in weight loss. The most well-known options include:

·       Semaglutide (brand names: Wegovy, Ozempic)

·       Tirzepatide (brand names: Mounjaro, Zepbound)

·       Liraglutide (brand name: Saxenda)

These drugs were initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but they were later found to have weight loss benefits due to their effects on appetite and metabolism.

They work by mimicking natural hormones in the body, such as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) or GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). These hormones signal to the brain that you’re full, delay gastric emptying, and help regulate insulin, all of which contribute to reduced appetite and calorie intake.

Who Are These Injections For?

Weight-loss injections are not meant for everyone. According to guidelines from the FDA and medical associations, they are typically prescribed for:

Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obese), or

Adults with a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) with at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol.

They are generally not intended for casual weight loss or cosmetic purposes. It’s important that they are prescribed by a healthcare provider who can assess your full medical history.

How Effective Are They?

Clinical trials have shown that these medications can lead to significant weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes:

Semaglutide (Wegovy): Participants lost an average of 12% to 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks.

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro): Showed even higher average weight loss rates, sometimes up to 20%.

These results are more substantial than what is typically seen with diet and exercise alone or older weight loss medications.

However, results vary, and not everyone will experience the same degree of weight loss. Commitment to healthy eating and activity is still necessary.

What Are the Side Effects?

While many people tolerate these injections well, side effects are common, especially when starting out or increasing the dose. Common side effects include:

·       Nausea

·       Vomiting

·       Diarrhea or constipation

·       Stomach pain

·       Fatigue

Less commonly, more serious risks include:

·       Pancreatitis

·       Gallbladder disease

·       Kidney issues due to dehydration

·       Low blood sugar, especially in people with diabetes

There is also a black box warning for some of these medications related to a potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, although this has only been observed in animal studies so far.

Before starting injections, your doctor should review your personal and family medical history to ensure you are not at increased risk of these complications.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Weight-loss injections can be expensive, especially if not covered by insurance. For example:

Wegovy can cost $1,300 or more per month without insurance.

Mounjaro is similarly priced.

Some insurance plans, including certain Medicare or Medicaid programs, may not cover weight-loss medications, although this is slowly changing as they gain acceptance.

There are manufacturer savings programs and coupons available in some cases, but these may not apply to all patients or in all states.

Before starting treatment, it’s a good idea to check with your provider and insurance to understand the out-of-pocket costs.

You May Need to Take It Long-Term

One important consideration is that weight may return if the medication is stopped. Studies have shown that most participants regained a significant portion of the lost weight within a year after stopping the drug.

This raises questions about whether these medications need to be taken long-term or even indefinitely. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most experts agree that these medications work best as part of a long-term strategy that includes lifestyle changes.

If you're not prepared for the possibility of long-term use, this may not be the right option for you.

It’s Not a Substitute for Lifestyle Changes

Weight-reducing injections can be highly effective tools, but they are not magic bullets. For best results, they should be paired with:

·       A balanced, calorie-conscious diet

·       Regular physical activity

·       Behavioral therapy or coaching when appropriate

·       Ongoing medical monitoring

Without these supporting elements, the benefits of the injection may be limited or short-lived.

It’s also important to understand that obesity is a chronic, multifactorial disease, and medications are just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Not All Providers Are Created Equal

Some clinics and online services now offer weight-loss injections without adequate medical supervision. Beware of:

Unregulated “compounded” versions of semaglutide or tirzepatide

Telehealth companies that prescribe without thorough evaluation

Unscrupulous marketing promoting rapid or unrealistic results

Always work with a licensed medical professional, ideally someone with expertise in obesity medicine or endocrinology. You’ll need ongoing monitoring to track progress, adjust dosage, and manage any side effects.

Consider Your Mental Health Too

Weight loss can impact your mental health, both positively and negatively. While many people experience improved self-esteem and physical functioning, some may:

·       Develop disordered eating behaviors

·       Experience anxiety about regaining weight

·       Face body image issues, even after losing weight

If you have a history of eating disorders, depression, or body dysmorphia, it’s essential to discuss this with your provider before starting treatment. A multidisciplinary approach, including mental health support, may be needed.

The Bottom Line

Weight-reducing injections can be a powerful tool for people who meet the medical criteria and are committed to making lasting lifestyle changes. They offer a science-backed way to lose significant weight, reduce obesity-related health risks, and potentially improve quality of life.

However, they are not appropriate for everyone, come with potential side effects, and may require long-term use. Financial cost and access can also be barriers.

Before trying a weight-loss injection, have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your goals, risks, and the best strategy for your individual needs. Approach the journey with realistic expectations and a holistic mindset, because sustainable health goes beyond just the number on the scale.