Unlocking Weight Loss: The Revolutionary Power Of Weight Loss Pens

The weight loss landscape has evolved significantly with the introduction of injectable medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy. Obesity impacts nearly 30% of the uk adult population so innovative solutions are in high demand. Each of these medications offers unique mechanisms and benefits but which one is right for your patient?

This post will explore their differences, real life patient experiences, effectiveness and dispel some common myths.

Weight loss injection pens aren’t magic, they won’t instantly melt away fat and can’t guarantee sustained weight loss, however if used as part of a wider weight loss plan they can help patients lose up to 20% of their body weight.

Weight loss can drastically improve health – just a 5-10% loss in weight can improve:

• Blood pressure
• Blood sugar
• Cholesterol
• Joint Pain
• Sleep apnoea

How They Work

Mounjaro

Mounjaro contains Tirzepatide, it is a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist. It works by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite and glucose levels making it effective for both weight loss and managing Type 2 diabetes

• increases insulin production which allows better glucose utilisation
• lowers glucagon secretion to reduce blood sugar release
• delays stomach emptying and intestinal absorption of nutrients
• activates regions of the brain linked to appetite to increase feelings of fullness

Wegovy

Wegovy contains Semaglutide, it is a GLP-1 receptor agonist.  It focuses primarily on weight management.

• Slows stomach emptying to prolonged feeling of satisfactions after meals
• Increased satiety signals to the brain cutting overall appetite and energy intake.
• Stabilizes blood sugar levels with lower calorific consumptions

While glucagon and insulin activity remain unaffected, the amplified GLP-1 stimulation allows Wegovy to deliver robust weight management with minimal side effects.

Efficacy

Mounjaro – In clinical trials, participants lost an average 15-20% of their body weight over 72 weeks. Many experience significant reduction in hunger and cravings

Wegovy – Studies indicate an average weight loss of 15-17% after 68 weeks.  Participants reported sustained appetite control

Side Effects

• Common side effects – nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation
• Rare/Serious side effects – pancreatitis and potential thyrod tumours (noted in animal studies)

Common Myths Debunked

• Myths: Weight loss pens are a ‘quick fix’ and guarantee weight loss
• Fact: These medications are to be used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan, including diet and exercise which are crucial for success
• Myth: All weight loss pens are the same.
• Fact:  Each medication has a different active drug with different mechanism and clinical profile. If your patient needs to switch from one to another they will need to start the new device at the lowest dose
• Myth:  These medications are unsafe
• Fact:  While they have side effects, they are generally safe when prescribed by a healthcare professional and used correctly.
• Myth: They only work for severely obese individuals
• Fact: Both medications can be prescribed for those overweight (BMI >27) with associated comorbidities such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, high cholesterol or a history of heart attack or strokes.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between Mounjaro and Wegovy, both have their merits and can be affective tools in your patients weight loss journey.  Mounjaro may offer slightly greater weight loss, while Wegovy has been widely studied and is more established in the market.  Ultimately, the right choice depends on individual needs, preferences and medical advice.

Before starting any weight loss medication you must consult with your patient on goals and expectations and create a weight management plan.  Remember, these pens are a tool to help them achieve their goal!

Patient experiences

• “Wegovy helpled me lose 40lbs.  It’s the first things that has really worked for me “
• “I lost 20lb in 3 months.  I feel less hungry and have more energy”
• “My attitude to food has completely changed since I started Mounjaro – there is no more secret eating in the car – game changer!”