Anti-obesity injections

They work alongside nutrition, activity and behaviour support rather than replacing them. Suitability depends on the specific medicine, weight-related health concerns, other medicines, digestive history, and pregnancy or feeding plans. A product intended for another person should never be shared.

Common prescription options imitate gut hormones involved in fullness and appetite. They can slow movement of food from the stomach, which helps explain side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, reflux and abdominal discomfort. The dose is commonly increased in stages to improve tolerability.

These medicines are different from cosmetic injections marketed to dissolve fat in one body area. Buy only through a regulated pharmacy using a valid prescription, because unapproved or counterfeit products may contain the wrong ingredient or strength.

Before starting, give the prescriber a complete list of medicines and supplements and discuss diabetes treatment, previous pancreatitis, gallbladder trouble, severe digestive symptoms, kidney problems, allergies, pregnancy plans and breastfeeding. Ask for a demonstration of the injection device and written instructions on storage and missed doses.

Use a fresh needle where applicable, rotate injection sites, and place used needles in an approved sharps container. Smaller meals and stopping when comfortably full may lessen nausea. If vomiting or diarrhoea develops, keep taking small sips and contact the prescriber before changing the dose.

Seek prompt medical advice for repeated vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, very little urine, persistent severe abdominal pain, or pain under the right ribs with fever or yellowing of the eyes. These symptoms need assessment for dehydration, pancreas inflammation or gallbladder disease.

Call emergency services for swelling of the lips or tongue, breathing difficulty, collapse, or a widespread rapidly developing rash. People using diabetes medicines also need a clear plan for sweating, shaking, confusion or other signs of low blood sugar.

Ask how the medicine fits your health goals, how dose increases will be decided, which side effects warrant pausing a dose, and how your other medicines may need adjustment. Clarify the review schedule and what the longer-term plan would be if the injection is ineffective, poorly tolerated or stopped.