What side effects do people suffer on weight loss drugs?
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Are side effects from weight loss drugs inevitable and what can people expect?
When people have found that diet and lifestyle changes alone have not achieved the results they hoped for, they may wish to discuss prescription treatment with a qualified clinician. These are only given to qualifying adults following clinical assessment and identity verification checks.
One of the most common questions is about side effects, and what people can expect.
We asked the team at New Health, a GPhC-registered pharmacy, to talk through what people can expect.
Not everyone is suitable, are they?
No, this is for adults only, and only for people who are deemed clinically appropriate. Prescription weight management medicines may be considered for adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above where there is a weight-related health condition, subject to clinical assessment. Your responses to our online questionnaire are assessed by our UK-based clinicians, alongside proof of weight, age and ID, and photos, before a decision is made.
Am I likely to experience side effects?
All medications can cause side effects and no two people are the same.
Commonly reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, bloating, acid reflux, headaches and fatigue. Slower digestion may also contribute to constipation. Not everyone experiences side effects, and their type and severity can vary from person to person.
Will these last for long?
For many people, side effects improve as their body adjusts to treatment, while others may continue to experience them. Anyone concerned about side effects should seek advice from their prescribing clinician.
At New Health, a GPhC-registered pharmacy, you can chat with Juno 24/7, WhatsApp based AI system with clinical input. Juno fields the initial message and escalates to a clinician where needed, or at the customer’s request, and it will be made clear when a human clinician becomes involved.
If you experience severe, persistent or concerning side effects, contact your prescribing clinician or another healthcare professional promptly.
What if I change my mind?
If you decide you no longer want weight loss medication support from New Health, for whatever reason, that’s absolutely fine. There is no subscription and you can choose not to repurchase at any time.;
About private prescriptions
Approved prescription weight loss medicines cannot be bought over the counter in the UK. They may be prescribed by qualified clinicians following an appropriate medical assessment, including through some registered online providers.
These are subject to vetting procedures, security checks and your application being overseen by an in-house medical team. These safeguards are designed to help ensure patient safety and compliance with UK regulations.
Where can I find out more?
Find out more about New Health's clinician-led weight management service here.
Weight loss medicines are only available following assessment by a qualified prescriber and may not be suitable for everyone. Always discuss any concerns about your health or treatment options with your GP or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
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