At the moment, this medication is not widely available on the NHS. However, it has been approved for use in the UK and may be offered through some private clinics and online pharmacies. This means you could still access it on a private prescription, particularly if it’s being used to support weight management or certain health conditions.

Studies have shown that people using this type of treatment for weight loss can achieve a significant reduction in body weight. On average, participants have lost between 15% to 20% of their body weight over a period of just over a year. The results depend on the dose prescribed and whether the treatment is combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Some individuals have reported losing as much as 25 kg (55 lbs) when following the highest recommended treatment plan. However, results vary from person to person and can depend on factors such as starting weight, lifestyle habits, and underlying health conditions.

No, you do not need to have diabetes to access this treatment. While it was originally developed to help manage blood sugar levels, it is now also being used by people without diabetes for weight management. Many private clinics and online providers in the UK offer it on a private prescription basis, especially for individuals who are overweight or living with obesity.

Research has shown that people without diabetes can still experience significant weight loss when using this treatment, particularly when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.

This treatment works by helping your body regulate appetite and digestion. It can reduce feelings of hunger, increase fullness, and slow down how quickly food leaves the stomach. These combined effects make it easier to eat less and manage portion sizes, which can support long-term weight loss.

In people living with diabetes, it may also help improve blood sugar control. For those without diabetes, it is often prescribed privately for weight management, as it has been shown to lead to sustained fat loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.

Like all medications, this treatment can cause side effects. Most are mild to moderate and often improve as your body adjusts during the first few weeks.

The most common side effects include:

• Nausea

• Diarrhoea

• Constipation

• Vomiting

• Decreased appetite

• Indigestion

• Tiredness or fatigue

Less common but more serious side effects may include:

• Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)

• Gallbladder problems

• Kidney issues linked to dehydration

• Low blood sugar (especially if taken alongside other diabetes medicines)

• Allergic reactions

Although rare, there may also be a risk of certain thyroid-related conditions. Because of this, the treatment may not be suitable for people with a personal or family history of specific thyroid disorders.