DEEP DIVE: GLP-1 Injections

A guide to weight loss injections and hearing from women who've actually tried them.

What are weight loss injections?

There are a few main types of weight loss injections: Semaglutide (marketed as Wegovy or Ozempic), Tirzepatide (Mounjaro), and Liraglutide (Saxenda). They all work similarly, by mimicking a hormone from the gut called GLP-1 (Tirzepatide also works on GIP receptors, and is in a different drug class to Semaglutide, but creates a similar effect). Naturally, GLP-1 is produced in the gut and signals to the brain that you are full when you eat. These injections create the same effect, without needing food as a trigger, so you feel full (or fuller) sooner when eating and may not feel as hungry as you would naturally.

The GLP-1 hormone also plays a part in regulating blood sugar, signalling when blood sugars are high. Insulin is released from the pancreas to manage glucose levels in the blood (this is the process that people with diabetes need medical intervention to support). Weight loss injections increase sensitivity to this process, improving blood sugar regulation, which is particularly beneficial for those at risk of or managing diabetes.

These injections can also improve cholesterol levels by reducing appetite and promoting fat loss.

Administration: These drugs are self-administered via pre-filled injection pens. Either in a once-weekly dose, or daily injections, depending on which medication.

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Why are they so popular right now?

Unfortunately, Elon could be given the trend-starting award here. Back in 2022, he tweeted that Wegovy was to thank for his glow-up, when Twitter was still Twitter 👀. Since then, a wave of celebs and creators who have openly talked about their experiences or simply appear to have lost weight has had a lot of social media influence.

However, accessibility and changing attitudes towards weight loss have also contributed to the popularity. Obesity is now better recognised as a chronic medical condition and quality of life improvements for people with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are being noticed as a result of using the injections.

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