In this comprehensive guide to three of the most popular weight loss injections, we will take a look at Mounjaro vs Wegovy and Saxenda. We will look into key aspects of these medications so that you can make an informed decision on which you think would be best for you. We will look at what they are used for, their active ingredients, how they work, how you use them, whether they are licensed for use in the UK, and other frequently asked questions people have regarding each medication. Whether you are already using a weight loss injection or whether you are considering using one for the first time, this article is for you.

Wegovy

What is Wegovy injection pen used for?

The Wegovy injection pen serves as a useful medication for aiding weight loss as well as treating type 2 diabetes. In the UK, Wegovy is a regulated medication that has been approved for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management, according to the Department of Health and Social Care. 

Is Wegovy licensed for weight loss in the UK?

Yes, Wegovy is a licensed medication in the United Kingdom that has been approved to treat weight loss as well as type 2 diabetes. The British Heart Foundation states that it is also approved for use by the NHS alongside a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise.

What is the active ingredient in Wegovy?

The active ingredient in Wegovy, according to the European Medicines Agency, is semaglutide. Semaglutide is a medication known as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). These medications help to regulate blood sugar levels as well as appetite.

How does Wegovy work?

As mentioned, Wegovy is a GLP-1 medication. These medications work by mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone. This naturally occurring hormone plays a role in regulating appetite and food consumption. Wegovy helps to reduce the feelings of hunger and can trick you into thinking that you’re fuller than you are (Puckey, 2024). This helps to reduce calorie intake which can aid weight loss when used alongside regular exercise and a healthy balanced diet. 

How do you take the Wegovy injection?

It is relatively simple to use the Wegovy injection. Here are the instructions provided by Novo Nordisk (the company that produces Wegovy) to people using the medication:

1. Familiarise yourself with the Instructions for Use provided with Wegovy.

2. Adhere strictly to the guidance provided by your healthcare provider regarding the usage of Wegovy.

3. Prior to your initial use, ensure your healthcare provider demonstrates the proper technique for administering Wegovy.

4. Inject Wegovy beneath the skin (subcutaneously) in an area such as your abdomen (stomach), thigh, or upper arm. Avoid injecting Wegovy into a muscle or vein.

5. Rotate the injection site to different areas to prevent discomfort and optimise absorption.

Video: How To Use The Wegovy Injection Pen

The London Slimming Clinic has put together a step-by-step video guide for how to use the Wegovy injection pen:

How often should you take the Wegovy injection?

You should take the Wegovy injection once a week, as directed by your healthcare provider (Bruce & Brewer, 2023). Consistency in dosing is essential for achieving optimal results in weight management.

What is the typical dosage schedule for Wegovy?

The typical dosing schedule for Wegovy, according to the official Wegovy website is as follows:

• Begin with a dose of 0.25mg once a week for the first month.

• In the second month, increase your weekly dose to 0.5mg. 

• In the third month, increase your weekly dose to 1mg.

• In the fourth month, you should increase your weekly dose to 1.7mg.

• From the fifth month onwards your healthcare provider may advise you to maintain the dose at 1.7mg or increase to 2.4mg. 

How long does Wegovy take to work?

Wegovy typically takes some time to fully work. You may notice initial weight loss within the first four weeks of treatment. After one year, adults using Wegovy will typically experience substantial weight loss, with the average adult losing 15% of their body weight (Anderson, 2024). 

How effective is Wegovy?

Wegovy demonstrates a high level of effectiveness in aiding weight loss and managing type 2 diabetes. Patients typically achieve substantial weight loss ranging from 9.6% to 17.4% of their initial body weight by week 68 of treatment (Chao et al, 2022).

How long should Wegovy be taken?

Wegovy should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, as directed by the European Medicines Agency. Typically, it is intended for long-term use as part of a comprehensive weight management plan. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your individual response, weight loss goals, and overall health status. It's essential to continue taking Wegovy as prescribed and to regularly follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor progress and adjust treatment as necessary.

Is Wegovy a prescription-only medication?

Yes, Wegovy is classified as a prescription-only medication according to the Department of Health and Social Care. This means that, in order to purchase it, you need to have a prescription from a healthcare provider. Medications that you can purchase without a prescription are known as over-the-counter medications. 

Can I get a Wegovy private prescription at UK Meds?

Yes, a free private prescription is provided with your order at UK Meds if your online consultation is approved. This free private prescription allows you to order Wegovy online.

Is Wegovy available to buy online at UK Meds?

Yes, you can purchase Wegovy online from UK Meds which is provided with a free private prescription if your online consultation is approved.

Mounjaro

What is Mounjaro injection pen used for?

The Mounjaro injection pen is a medication that is designed to be used to help aid weight loss as well as manage type 2 diabetes, according to Eli Lilly and Company, the company that produces Mounjaro. It is most effective when it is used alongside a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise. 

Is Mounjaro licensed for weight loss in the UK?

Yes, Mounjaro has been authorised by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK for weight management and weight loss, as of November 2023. Mounjaro was initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes but has since been approved for weight management.

What is the active ingredient in Mounjaro?

The active ingredient in Mounjaro is called tirzepatide. Tirzepatide was initially approved for type 2 diabetes management, but, as previously mentioned, it is now available as a weight loss medication. This medication works in the same way as a glucagon-like peptide-1, according to the European Medicines Agency.

How does Mounjaro work?

Mounjaro works in a number of different ways to help promote weight loss, according to the official Mounjaro website. Mounjaro boosts the secretion of insulin to help manage type 2 diabetes, as well as improving the body's sensitivity to insulin. It also helps to control appetite and limit calorie consumption. 

How do you take the Mounjaro injection?

At UK Meds, we have previously put together a guide on how to take Mounjaro. In this guide, there are 8 steps to properly use Mounjaro. These are:

1. Check your pen is undamaged and matches your prescription.

2. Wash your hands using soap and water.

3. Choose your injection site be it the stomach, thigh or upper arm.

4. Prepare the pen using a new needle.

5. Prime the pen by turning the dose knob until you hear two clicks indicating a 0 in the dose window. Tap the holder to remove air bubbles.

6. Inject the medicine, counting slowly to 5.

7. Remove the needle, ensuring the 0 icon is displayed before you do so. If there is still some medication left, reinsert the needle without adjusting the dose.

8. Dispose of the needle in a sharps bin. 

How often should you take the Mounjaro injection?

According to drugs.com, Mounjaro is used once weekly depending on the dosage that your healthcare provider has told you to use. The maximum dosage of Mounjaro is 15mg injected once weekly. If a dose is missed then you should use it as soon as possible within 4 days after the missed dose. If more than 4 days have passed you should skip the dose and administer it on your regular dosing day. 

What is the typical dosage schedule for Mounjaro?

The dosing schedule provided by the official Mounjaro website states that the starting dosage of Mounjaro is 2.5mg taken once a week for the first month of treatment. After 4 weeks, the dosage may be changed to 5mg. This higher dosage is intended for the continued treatment to achieve optimal results. 

How long does Mounjaro take to work?

For type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro will lower blood sugar levels almost immediately. For weight loss, Mounjaro will achieve noticeable results after around 28 weeks of continuous, correct usage when used alongside a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise (Anderson, 2023).

How effective is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro has been shown to be significantly effective when used for weight loss. According to a recent study, 42.3% of individuals using tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro) achieved weight loss of at least 15% of their body weight after one year of use. Compared to Wegovy, these results are better as these medications only saw 19.3% of individuals noting this result.

How long should Mounjaro be taken?

While Mounjaro is typically prescribed for long-term use to effectively manage blood sugar levels and support weight loss, discontinuation may be considered under certain circumstances. If you experience severe side effects or if your healthcare provider determines that the expected results are not being achieved, they may recommend discontinuing Mounjaro (Michalak & Bendezu, 2024).

Is Mounjaro a prescription-only medication?

Yes, Mounjaro is a prescription medication. It is not available over the counter, and you can only obtain it with a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. This ensures that Mounjaro is used safely and appropriately under the guidance of a medical professional (Walton & Davenport, 2024).

Can I get a Mounjaro private prescription at UK Meds?

Yes, when your consultation is successfully approved at UK Meds you have been approved for a free private prescription for whichever medication you choose that allows you to purchase the medication you need. 

Is Mounjaro available to buy online at UK Meds?

Yes, Mounjaro can be purchased online from UK Meds. You will first need to complete an online consultation that ensures the medication is right for you. If approved you will be provided with a free private prescription that allows you to complete your purchase.

Saxenda

What is Saxenda injection pen used for?

The Saxenda injection pen is used to treat obesity in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater, or in adults with a BMI of 27 or greater who also have at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol, according to the Saxenda website.

Is Saxenda licensed for weight loss in the UK?

Yes, Saxenda is licensed for weight loss in the United Kingdom according to the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). It it authorised to treat weight loss in adults who suffer from obesity, or who are overweight and have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol. 

What is the active ingredient in Saxenda?

The active ingredient in Saxenda is liraglutide, according to the European Medicines Agency. This substance is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that works in the same way as Wegovy and Mounjaro.

How does Saxenda work?

As previously mentioned, Saxenda’s active ingredient liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. These medications work by mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormones to help with appetite regulation and feelings of hunger (Puckey, 2023). 

How do you take the Saxenda injection?

Here is a brief overview based on the official instructions provided by Saxenda on their website: 

1. Prepare your pen with a new needle and wash your hands.

2. Check the flow of a new pen by using the flow check symbol on the dose indicator.

3. Select the dose you need to use according to your healthcare provider.

4. Inject your medication into your upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. 

5. Remove the needle from your skin and dispose of it in a sharps bin.

How often should you take the Saxenda injection?

The dosing schedule for Saxenda typically involves gradually increasing the dose over several weeks. In your first week, you will be given a daily dose of 0.6mg. In week 2 this is upped to 1.2mg, 1.8gm in week 3, 2.4mg in week 4, and 3mg in week 5 and beyond (Westphalen & Caporuscio, 2023).

What is the typical dosage schedule for Saxenda?

Saxenda is a self-administered medication that is meant to be used daily, with the dosage increasing every week, according to drugs.com. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage schedule based on any side effects you experience during treatment.

How long does Saxenda take to work?

Saxenda does not produce immediate results. While some individuals may notice effects within the first 1-3 days of starting treatment, significant weight loss is not typically evident right away. The active ingredient liraglutide requires time to take effect on weight management (Henderson & O’Loan, 2023).

How effective is Saxenda?

In a study involving fifty patients with severe obesity, aged around 46 years old, most of whom were female, Saxenda consistently led to significant weight loss, reduced body mass index (BMI), and lowered HbA1c levels (a measure of blood sugar control) over 26 and 52 weeks of treatment (Wilmington, 2024).

How long should Saxenda be taken?

Saxenda is intended for long-term use, typically as a continuous treatment. If Saxenda is deemed safe and effective for you by your healthcare provider, it may be used over the long term. After using Saxenda for 16 weeks, your doctor will assess the change in your body weight. If you haven't lost at least 4% of your body weight during this time, your doctor may discontinue treatment with Saxenda (Westphalen & Weiss, 2023).

Is Saxenda a prescription-only medication?

Yes, Saxenda is a prescription-only medication as indicated by the MHRA. It cannot be obtained over the counter and requires a valid prescription from a healthcare provider for purchase and use. This ensures that Saxenda is used safely and appropriately under the guidance of a medical professional.

Can I get a Saxenda private prescription at UK Meds?

Yes, you can get a private prescription for Saxenda when you have an online consultation approved at UK Meds. Our consultation is designed to ensure that only people who need the medication can purchase it. 

Is Saxenda available to buy online at UK Meds?

Yes, you can buy Saxenda online from UK Meds if your online consultation has been approved. When your consultation is approved you are provided with a free private prescription.

Weight Loss Medication Comparison Table

*Please note, all prices were correct at the time of writing.

Sources

• Saxenda - About Saxenda

• Novo Nordisk - Saxenda

• Wegovy UK

• Novo Nordisk - Wegovy

• Mounjaro - What is Mounjaro

• Lilly - Mounjaro Media Kit

• European Medicines Agency - Mounjaro

• European Medicines Agency - Saxenda

• European Medicines Agency - Wegovy

• Mounjaro - Summary of Product Characteristics

• Saxenda - Summary of Product Characteristics

• Wegovy - Summary of Product Characteristics