Wegovy and Mounjaro injections: A new era in weight loss treatment

Written in association with: Mrs Kalpana Devalia
Published: | Updated: 08/10/2024
Edited by: Conor Lynch

Wegovy and Mounjaro are two breakthrough medications offering promising results for individuals struggling with obesity and weight-related health issues. Both injections are part of a growing class of medications designed to assist with weight loss by targeting specific hormonal pathways that regulate appetite and metabolism.

 

With obesity rates on the rise, these medications represent a significant shift in the management of weight loss, providing new hope for those who have not seen success with traditional diet and exercise.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy, a higher-dose version of the diabetes medication semaglutide, was approved for weight loss by the FDA in 2021. It works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which signals the brain to reduce hunger and increases feelings of fullness after eating.

 

This leads to a reduced calorie intake, helping individuals lose weight over time. Clinical trials showed that Wegovy could lead to an average weight loss of 15% or more of body weight when combined with a healthy diet and physical activity.

 

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro, or tirzepatide, is a newer injectable medication that targets two hormones, GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), both of which play roles in appetite regulation and energy use. By affecting these pathways, Mounjaro helps control cravings and increases satiety.

 

It was initially developed as a diabetes medication, but like Wegovy, it has shown impressive results in promoting weight loss. In clinical trials, patients using Mounjaro achieved an average weight loss of up to 20% of their body weight.

 

Both medications are administered through weekly injections and are intended for long-term use in adults with obesity or those with weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. However, it’s important to note that these injections are not a magic fix; they work best when combined with lifestyle changes like improved diet and increased physical activity.

 

As with any medication, potential side effects exist, including nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine which treatment option is best suited for an individual’s needs and health status.

By Mrs Kalpana Devalia
Surgery

Mrs Kalpana Devalia is a leading London-based consultant bariatric surgeon, with more than 10 years of experience. She is one of the UK’s most trusted bariatric surgeons, having performed over 1000 laparoscopic procedures over the course of her career, such laparoscopic gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Mrs Devalia practises at the Cleveland Clinic and Portland Place Outpatient Centre, both in central London. She has been a consultant surgeon at the Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust since 2011. Some of her areas of expertise include bariatric (weight loss) surgery,  treatment for gallstones, acid reflux and hernia procedures.

Mrs Devalia has received extensive training across the UK, India and Belgium. She graduated with an MBBS from the University of Mumbai in 1989, before going on to qualify with a FRCS (Edin) at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and a FRCS (Glas) at the Royal College of Surgeons of Glasgow, both in 2000. Mrs Devalia then received her FRCS (Gen Surg) in 2011.

Mrs Devalia is an expert on the new pharmalogical weight loss medications Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). This treatment may be more suitable for patients who are not keen on weight loss surgery. Mrs Devalia provides individualised plans based on a thorough medical evaluation to maximise effectiveness. Her main priority is the overall health and long term success for her patients . Her overarching goal is to help her patients achieve sustainable, healthy results through the safest and most effective means available.

Mrs Devalia has a special clinical interest in surgery for severe obesity, gastrointestinal surgery and advanced laparoscopic surgery

When Mrs Devalia is not treating patients, she carries out research into a wide range of bariatric treatments, and has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals. She is also a faculty member for various different medical training courses and international symposiums at Homerton University Hospital. She offers a free consultation to ensure patients know the best treatment options available.

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