A doctor has come out to quell some fake ‘facts’ about popular weight loss jabs.
There are a ton of misconceptions about a lot of things in life, and generally, we tend to accept them as true if we are told they are factually correct, which might not be the best approach, especially when it comes to health.
As weight-loss medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro have grown in popularity, Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, says there have been a few misconceptions floating around about 'what they can and can't do'.
He said: "While these treatments can be effective for some people, they are not a quick fix and must be used safely under medical guidance.
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"With this in mind, it’s important to address some of the most common misconceptions about weight loss jabs.”
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Weight-loss jabs are a quick-fix solution
According to the doctor, this is something people might believe to be true, but it’s totally false.
“One of the most common misconceptions around these weight loss treatments is that they’re often viewed as a ‘quick fix’ that can provide instant results without lifestyle amendments,” he explained.
However, he added that ‘in truth, weight loss medications are designed to support weight loss alongside a balanced diet, physical activity and long-term behavioural changes’.
He said: “As a result, they should be seen as a tool to aid sustainable weight management, rather than a standalone solution or miracle cure.”
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Anyone can use them
Just as they cannot be used to solve excess weight in an instant, it’s also not a solution that just anyone can use.
The expert said: “Many people assume that anyone can utilise these weight loss treatments, but this is also false and can pose a health risk.”
He explained the drugs are 'designed for people who pass a consultation and receive a prescription. Currently, adults with obesity (a BMI over 30) or overweight adults (a BMI over 27) with weight-related health concerns qualify for treatments such as Mounjaro, Wegovy or Ozempic.’
Scarily, he warns that if you take them and don’t need to, you could ‘risk unwanted side effects, nutrient deficiencies, and potentially serious complications, which is why medical supervision is always essential’.
They work the same for everyone
It’s not a one-size-fits-all drug, says Dr Grant, as he explains that like any other medication, ‘weight loss injections do not work identically for everyone’.
He explained: “Results can vary significantly depending on factors such as starting weight, underlying health conditions, lifestyle habits, and the consistency with which the treatment plan is followed. Some people may notice changes more quickly, while others may require more time to see progress.”
Instead of hoping the drugs will be the one thing to get rid of weight, they’re instead designed simply to ‘support weight loss, not guarantee it, so managing expectations remains vital.’
You don’t need diet and exercise if you take the drugs
Oh, so this is a big no-no.
According to Dr Grant, weight loss drugs are not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, as he explains that they are supposed to be used to ‘support weight loss efforts’.
He explains: “It’s best to combine them with proper lifestyle adjustments such as an exercise routine and a well-balanced diet. While injections can help reduce appetite and improve feelings of fullness, they do not replace the need for healthy habits.
"Therefore, as a GP, I recommend considering weight loss medication as part of a broader approach that includes good nutrition, regular physical activity, and ongoing lifestyle support.”
People only use them for vanity weight loss
While some might believe that losing weight is purely about looking a certain way, it goes much deeper than that.
According to Dr Grant: “A lot of people view weight loss treatments as purely cosmetic, but in reality, they provide a wide range of health benefits outside of improving physique.”
He explained: “These treatments have been proven to benefit people living with obesity-related health concerns, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
"This highlights the medication’s ability to enhance quality of life while massively reducing the risk of long-term health conditions."
Boots Online Doctor says that Ozempic isn't officially approved for weight loss, only for treating type-2 diabetes.
The weight stays off automatically
It’s also easy to think that medication will last long after a person stops using it, but maintenance is needed.
Dr Grant said: “Finally, when stopping medication, a common misconception is that the weight loss will remain permanently without continued effort. In reality, many people may experience weight regain if proper lifestyle habits are not maintained once treatment ends.
"This highlights the need to build healthy, sustainable lifestyle changes around diet, exercise and long-term behaviour, allowing progress to be maintained once appetite is no longer being suppressed.”
He went on to say: “Overall, there are plenty of misconceptions that can create unrealistic expectations around these popular weight loss treatments.
"By understanding the truth behind each claim, people can manage weight more effectively and make safer, more informed decisions about their health.”
Britt Jones