Latest news with #ZAVA
Daily Mirror
20 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
NHS weight loss jabs might 'not be suitable' for these 5 groups
GPs will be prescribing Mounjaro to a select few people as the rollout begins, but others may need to avoid the jabs completely GPs can now prescribe Mounjaro, but only to a select group of patients who meet stringent criteria, such as having a BMI over 40 and being diagnosed with four out of five qualifying conditions. But people with other pre-existing conditions may not be able to access this weight loss drug at all. Dr Crystal Willie from ZAVA clarified that weight loss drugs "may be unsafe depending on medications you are taking or pre-existing medical conditions". This includes three specific conditions: Pancreatic disorders like pancreatitis History of thyroid cancer History of gallbladder disease Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to do either might also be advised to avoid the medication. The same goes for people on certain medications like insulin or immunosuppressants. Dr Willie told the Mirror: "You should speak to your doctor about any conditions or medications before taking any weight loss injection. Mounjaro weight loss injections can lower your blood sugar levels too much if taken in combination with sulfonylurea or insulin (other diabetes treatments). "You shouldn't take Mounjaro alongside other weight loss injections, such as Saxenda or Wegovy. This could increase the risk of serious health risks and side effects." The doctor also revealed that weight loss medication might actually not do what people think, as research from ZAVA found up to 20% of people using the GLP-1 drugs don't see the expected results or hit a weight loss plateau. There are a variety of reasons for this, including: Incorrect dosage Missing doses Not improving your diet and an inactive lifestyle Not keeping hydrated Excessive alcohol consumption Persistent stress Having a poor sleep routine Other health conditions may interfere with the effectiveness of weight loss drugs, like diabetes, hypothyroidism, insulin resistance and PCOS. Medications like antidepressants or steroids may also cause weight gain or hinder fat loss. Dr Wyllie added: "While Mounjaro is an effective medication for weight loss, it's normal to encounter a plateau at some point. To enhance your results, it's important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and aim to reach the appropriate maintenance dose, as higher doses are generally associated with greater benefits. "Beyond medication, factors like maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, managing stress, and getting enough sleep play a crucial role in supporting your weight loss journey. If progress stalls despite these efforts, consulting your healthcare provider is essential to evaluate your plan and make necessary adjustments."
Daily Record
a day ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Weight loss jabs won't help you shift the pounds if you're still doing these things
With Mounjaro being rolled out at GPs down south, experts have listed the reasons why people getting the jabs may still not lose weight As the NHS down south begins rolling out weight-loss injections through GPs, demand is expected to rise sharply. However, with only around 220,000 patients eligible over the next three years, access may not be as easy as many expect. One particular injectable drawing significant notice and media coverage is Mounjaro, or Tirzepatide, to give it its medical name, initially developed for the management of type 2 diabetes. The medication has been licensed in the UK for obesity treatment since November 2024, earning acclaim for its effectiveness in facilitating substantial weight loss. Other injectable treatments include Wegovy and Nevolat. "While Mounjaro is an effective medication for weight loss, it's normal to encounter a plateau at some point," Dr. Crystal Wyllie at ZAVA explained. "With the NHS rollout still limited, many people won't qualify straight away, so understanding your full range of options is crucial.... working closely with your doctor is key to finding the safest and most personalised approach." As Mounjaro becomes more widely available, experts at ZAVA want to remind users what to expect, why it might not always work as expected, and how to avoid common setbacks. Incorrect medication use or dosage Mounjaro's effectiveness often increases as you move up the dosage ladder, ZAVA healthcare providers advise. The medication is typically titrated slowly to reduce side effects, eventually reaching maintenance doses of up to 15mg per week. If you're still on a lower dose or haven't advanced as recommended, your weight loss may be limited. Consistency is crucial. Skipping doses, delaying titration, or not following your provider's schedule can reduce the medication's impact. Many people don't feel the full effect until 8–12 weeks in, so patience and adherence are key. You should give Mounjaro at least three months before judging its effectiveness. If you're experiencing side effects, it's absolutely fine to remain at a lower dose for longer. Step up more slowly if you're not tolerating side effects well, there's no need to push through discomfort. You can always increase the dose later once your body has adjusted. Comfort and tolerability are just as important as consistency for long-term success. Poor diet and lack of exercise Weight loss jabs don't override the fundamental rule of weight loss - you must burn more calories than you consume. Even with a smaller appetite, eating more than your body needs will still cause progress to stall. Healthy diet tips: Be strict with calorie tracking until portion control becomes second nature Aim for a calorie daily deficit to lose weight steadily Prioritise whole foods over high-sugar, high-fat processed options Follow a diet tailored to your needs, and explore healthy recipe ideas to stay on track Stay hydrated and limit alcohol Stress and sleep issues Chronic stress and poor sleep are major weight loss blockers. Stress increases cortisol, a hormone linked to fat retention, especially around the abdomen. Sleep deprivation increases ghrelin (hunger hormone) and decreases leptin (fullness hormone), making you more likely to overeat and less likely to move. You're also more impulsive and less motivated when sleep-deprived, making it harder to stick to your diet and exercise routine. Prioritise stress management techniques (like mindfulness or journaling), and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Health conditions and medications Medical issues such as PCOS, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or insulin resistance can all interfere with weight loss. Similarly, certain medications (like antidepressants or steroids) may cause weight gain or inhibit fat loss. If weight loss stalls despite doing everything right, consult your GP to rule out or address any underlying conditions. If you have a known medical condition, keep on top of your routine reviews and inform your GP or specialist about any weight loss treatments you're using. Follow-up helps ensure your treatment plan remains safe and effective. Unrealistic expectations Weight loss is a long-term process. Initial drops (often water weight) can be misleading. Progress will slow, and that's okay. Avoid comparing yourself to others or obsessively checking the scale. Focus on consistency, not speed. Your journey is unique, and sustainable weight loss takes time. Lack of support Motivation by itself often isn't enough. Without support from those who understand your goals, the journey can feel lonely and overwhelming. Lean on friends and family who encourage you. Join online communities or local support groups, including NHS-recommended programs. Consider working with a dietitian or coach for personalised guidance and accountability Before beginning any weight loss treatment, please consult your GP or healthcare professional. These treatments may not be suitable for everyone. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. 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Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Mounjaro serious side effects warning as NHS GPs prescribe weight-loss jab
Mounjaro patients should watch out for the following serious side effects, as GPs are now able to prescribe the weight-loss drug on the NHS. While most side effects are mild and temporary, doctors are warning some serious reactions can occur, though they are rare, particularly pancreatitis, a potentially severe inflammation of the pancreas. It's vital to be aware of symptoms that require urgent medical attention: Severe or ongoing stomach pain that may spread to your back and are not improving (possibly indicating pancreatitis) Persistent nausea or vomiting Yellowing of skin or eyes (could signal liver or gallbladder issues) Signs of infection, fever, or unusual weakness Difficulty breathing, wheezing or swelling in face or throat (signs of an allergic reaction) If you experience these, stop your medication immediately and seek emergency medical help by going to Accident and Emergency (A&E) or call 999 immediately. Dr Babak Ashrafi from ZAVA explains: "Weight loss injections like Mounjaro and Wegovy are one of the most exciting developments we've seen in obesity treatment in recent years. "These medications don't just help reduce weight, they tackle one of the root causes by regulating appetite, which can be life-changing for people who've struggled with traditional weight loss methods. Clinical evidence shows that they can lead to significant, sustained weight loss and improvements in overall health, including blood pressure and cholesterol. "But they're not a magic fix. Long-term success comes from combining these treatments with healthy eating, regular physical activity, and the right support. That's why it's so important to use these injections under the guidance of a healthcare professional, who can monitor your progress and make sure they're safe and suitable for your individual needs." The Mounjaro weight-loss jab is officially being introduced on the NHS, but only for a limited group of patients with a BMI over 35 and a related health condition. Despite growing excitement, the treatment isn't as easily accessible as some may think. Still, interest is soaring. In the UK, Google searches for Mounjaro have jumped by more than 5,000%, with people asking questions like 'Criteria for Mounjaro on NHS' and 'Does Mounjaro work for everyone?' as they explore their options. More Mounjaro news... Who is eligible for Mounjaro on the NHS? Urgent holiday warning for Mounjaro users issued Mounjaro warning as summer temperatures rise Starting weight loss injections triggers your body to adapt to the new medication, explains Dr Ashrafi. Because these treatments mimic the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone, they influence your appetite and digestion, which can initially cause side effects such as: Nausea or vomiting Mild digestive discomfort Fatigue or headaches These symptoms usually appear in the first few days as your system adjusts. To ease discomfort, it's recommended to eat smaller, low-fat meals and avoid greasy or rich foods. Staying hydrated and resting are also important during this period. While you might experience signs of discomfort, it's important to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor and listen to your body. For many, side effects can continue during the second week, as the body continues to respond to the medication. Nausea, headaches, or digestive upset often begin to decrease as treatment continues. If side effects do not improve, healthcare providers may adjust the dosage or suggest a slower increase to help your body acclimate more comfortably. Staying well-hydrated and resting when needed are simple ways to ease symptoms. By the third week, most patients report fewer side effects as their bodies adjust. At this stage, some patients begin noticing early positive changes, such as reduced appetite, feeling fuller sooner during meals or slowing gastric emptying. Remember, these injections work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which regulates hunger and digestion. It is crucial to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise to support your weight loss journey and overall health. At the 4 week mark many people start seeing early changes in weight and energy levels. Clinical trials show that with continuous use combined with lifestyle modifications, Wegovy users lost up to 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks, while Mounjaro users experienced at least 22.5% reduction over 72 weeks. Weight loss injections have also been shown to improve markers like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar control, important benefits for long-term health.
Scottish Sun
13-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The truth about why weight loss jabs are failing to work for thousands of Brits
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WEIGHT loss jabs have been a godsend for people in the UK living with obesity. But despite 1.5 million people using the weight loss medication in a single month, many users say they haven't seen the expected results from GLP-1 treatments. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 While weight loss plateaus are common, there are reasons weight loss jabs may not be working, with fixable solutions Credit: Getty Weight loss plateaus are common, but in many cases, the reasons are identifiable and fixable. To help those facing this challenge, experts at ZAVA have broken down the most common reasons the weight loss injection Mounjaro may not be working as expected - and what you can do to get back on track. 1. Incorrect medicine Mounjaro's effectiveness often increases as you move up the dosage ladder. The medication is introduced to the body slowly (titration) to reduce side effects, eventually reaching maintenance doses of up to 15mg per week. If you're still on a lower dose or haven't advanced as recommended, your weight loss may be limited. Consistency is crucial. Skipping doses, delaying titration, or not following your provider's schedule can reduce the medication's impact. Many people don't feel the full effect until eight to 12 weeks in, so patience and adherence are key. You should give Mounjaro at least three months before judging its effectiveness. If you're experiencing side effects, it's absolutely fine to remain at a lower dose for longer. The experts advise stepping up more slowly if you're not tolerating side effects well - there's no need to push through discomfort. Women taking fat jabs need 'effective contraception' - as health chiefs warn of serious harm to unborn babies You can always increase the dose later once your body has adjusted. Comfort and tolerability are just as important as consistency for long-term success. Poor diet and lack of exercise While Mounjaro helps reduce appetite, it doesn't override the fundamental rule of weight loss: you must burn more calories than you consume. Even with a smaller appetite, eating more than your body needs will still cause progress to stall. To maintain an effective calorie deficit for weight loss, men are generally advised to consume around 1,900 calories per day (down from the typical 2,500), while women should aim for about 1,400 calories per day (down from around 2,000). Healthy diet tips: Be strict with calorie tracking until portion control becomes second nature Aim for a 600-calorie daily deficit to lose weight steadily Prioritise whole foods over high-sugar, high-fat processed options Follow a diet plan tailored to your needs, and explore healthy recipe ideas to stay on track The experts say to also remember that initial weight loss may come from water, especially if you've reduced salt or started exercising. As your body adjusts, weight loss may temporarily plateau or appear to reverse. Finally, stay hydrated and limit alcohol. Alcohol can interfere with your metabolism and reduce the effectiveness of Mounjaro. 3. Stress and sleep issues 3 Not getting enough sleep could act as a major weight loss blocker Credit: Getty Chronic stress and poor sleep are major weight loss blockers. Stress increases cortisol, a hormone linked to fat retention, especially around the abdomen. Sleep deprivation increases ghrelin (hunger hormone) and decreases leptin (fullness hormone), making you more likely to overeat and less likely to move. You're also more impulsive and less motivated when sleep-deprived, making it harder to stick to your diet and exercise routine. As a solution, the experts say to prioritise stress management techniques (like mindfulness or journaling), and aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. 4. Health conditions and medications Medical issues such as PCOS, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or insulin resistance can all interfere with weight loss. Similarly, certain medications (like antidepressants or steroids) may cause weight gain or inhibit fat loss. If weight loss stalls despite doing everything right, consult your GP to rule out or address any underlying conditions. If you have a known medical condition, it's important to stay up to date with your routine reviews and inform your GP or specialist about any weight loss treatments you're using. The experts advise regular follow-up helps ensure your treatment plan remains safe and effective. 5. Unrealistic expectations 3 It's important to remember weight is a long-term process Credit: Getty It's natural to hope for rapid results, especially with a promising medication like Mounjaro. But weight loss is a long-term process. Initial drops (often water weight) can be misleading. Progress will slow, and that's okay. Avoid comparing yourself to others or obsessively checking the scale, say the experts. Focus on consistency, not speed. Your journey is unique, and sustainable weight loss takes time. 6. Lack of support Motivation by itself often isn't enough. Without support from those who understand your goals, the journey can feel lonely and overwhelming. The experts recommend: Lean on friends and family who encourage you Join online communities or local support groups, including NHS-recommended programs Consider working with a dietitian or coach for personalised guidance and accountability How to boost weight loss on Mounjaro, according to a doctor Dr Crystal Wyllie, a qualified and UK registered doctor who is part of the clinical team at Asda Online Doctor by ZAVA, says while Mounjaro is an effective medication for weight loss, it's normal to encounter a plateau at some point. She advises: "To enhance your results, it's important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and aim to reach the appropriate maintenance dose, as higher doses are generally associated with greater benefits. "However, if you're experiencing side effects, it's perfectly acceptable to step up more slowly. "Your GP may recommend staying on a lower dose for longer until your body adjusts, comfort and tolerability should always guide the pace of titration." Beyond medication, factors like maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, managing stress, and getting enough sleep play a vital role in supporting your weight loss journey, says Dr Wyllie. She adds: "If progress stalls despite these efforts, consulting your healthcare provider is essential to evaluate your plan and make necessary adjustments." For individuals who find Mounjaro less effective or unsuitable, there are several other weight loss medications to consider. Dr Wyllie recommends: "Injectable options like Wegovy and Nevolat work similarly by curbing appetite, while oral medications such as Orlistat, Xenical, and the over-the-counter Alli provide different mechanisms to support weight loss. "Each treatment has unique advantages and considerations, so working closely with your doctor ensures you receive the safest and most personalised approach to achieve your goals.' Before beginning any weight loss treatment, please consult your GP or healthcare professional. These treatments may not be suitable for everyone.
The Sun
13-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The truth about why weight loss jabs are failing to work for thousands of Brits
WEIGHT loss jabs have been a godsend for people in the UK living with obesity. But despite 1.5 million people using the weight loss medication in a single month, many users say they haven't seen the expected results from GLP-1 treatments. 3 Weight loss plateaus are common, but in many cases, the reasons are identifiable and fixable. To help those facing this challenge, experts at ZAVA have broken down the most common reasons the weight loss injection Mounjaro may not be working as expected - and what you can do to get back on track. 1. Incorrect medicine Mounjaro's effectiveness often increases as you move up the dosage ladder. The medication is introduced to the body slowly (titration) to reduce side effects, eventually reaching maintenance doses of up to 15mg per week. If you're still on a lower dose or haven't advanced as recommended, your weight loss may be limited. Consistency is crucial. Skipping doses, delaying titration, or not following your provider's schedule can reduce the medication's impact. Many people don't feel the full effect until eight to 12 weeks in, so patience and adherence are key. You should give Mounjaro at least three months before judging its effectiveness. If you're experiencing side effects, it's absolutely fine to remain at a lower dose for longer. The experts advise stepping up more slowly if you're not tolerating side effects well - there's no need to push through discomfort. Women taking fat jabs need 'effective contraception' - as health chiefs warn of serious harm to unborn babies You can always increase the dose later once your body has adjusted. Comfort and tolerability are just as important as consistency for long-term success. Poor diet and lack of exercise While Mounjaro helps reduce appetite, it doesn't override the fundamental rule of weight loss: you must burn more calories than you consume. Even with a smaller appetite, eating more than your body needs will still cause progress to stall. To maintain an effective calorie deficit for weight loss, men are generally advised to consume around 1,900 calories per day (down from the typical 2,500), while women should aim for about 1,400 calories per day (down from around 2,000). Healthy diet tips: Be strict with calorie tracking until portion control becomes second nature Aim for a 600-calorie daily deficit to lose weight steadily Prioritise whole foods over high-sugar, high-fat processed options Follow a diet plan tailored to your needs, and explore healthy recipe ideas to stay on track The experts say to also remember that initial weight loss may come from water, especially if you've reduced salt or started exercising. As your body adjusts, weight loss may temporarily plateau or appear to reverse. Finally, stay hydrated and limit alcohol. Alcohol can interfere with your metabolism and reduce the effectiveness of Mounjaro. 3. Stress and sleep issues 3 Chronic stress and poor sleep are major weight loss blockers. Stress increases cortisol, a hormone linked to fat retention, especially around the abdomen. Sleep deprivation increases ghrelin (hunger hormone) and decreases leptin (fullness hormone), making you more likely to overeat and less likely to move. You're also more impulsive and less motivated when sleep-deprived, making it harder to stick to your diet and exercise routine. As a solution, the experts say to prioritise stress management techniques (like mindfulness or journaling), and aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. 4. Health conditions and medications Medical issues such as PCOS, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or insulin resistance can all interfere with weight loss. Similarly, certain medications (like antidepressants or steroids) may cause weight gain or inhibit fat loss. If weight loss stalls despite doing everything right, consult your GP to rule out or address any underlying conditions. If you have a known medical condition, it's important to stay up to date with your routine reviews and inform your GP or specialist about any weight loss treatments you're using. The experts advise regular follow-up helps ensure your treatment plan remains safe and effective. 5. Unrealistic expectations 3 It's natural to hope for rapid results, especially with a promising medication like Mounjaro. But weight loss is a long-term process. Initial drops (often water weight) can be misleading. Progress will slow, and that's okay. Avoid comparing yourself to others or obsessively checking the scale, say the experts. Focus on consistency, not speed. Your journey is unique, and sustainable weight loss takes time. 6. Lack of support Motivation by itself often isn't enough. Without support from those who understand your goals, the journey can feel lonely and overwhelming. The experts recommend: Lean on friends and family who encourage you Join online communities or local support groups, including NHS-recommended programs Consider working with a dietitian or coach for personalised guidance and accountability How to boost weight loss on Mounjaro, according to a doctor Dr Crystal Wyllie, a qualified and UK registered doctor who is part of the clinical team at Asda Online Doctor by ZAVA, says while Mounjaro is an effective medication for weight loss, it's normal to encounter a plateau at some point. She advises: "To enhance your results, it's important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and aim to reach the appropriate maintenance dose, as higher doses are generally associated with greater benefits. "However, if you're experiencing side effects, it's perfectly acceptable to step up more slowly. "Your GP may recommend staying on a lower dose for longer until your body adjusts, comfort and tolerability should always guide the pace of titration." Beyond medication, factors like maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, managing stress, and getting enough sleep play a vital role in supporting your weight loss journey, says Dr Wyllie. She adds: "If progress stalls despite these efforts, consulting your healthcare provider is essential to evaluate your plan and make necessary adjustments." For individuals who find Mounjaro less effective or unsuitable, there are several other weight loss medications to consider. Dr Wyllie recommends: "Injectable options like Wegovy and Nevolat work similarly by curbing appetite, while oral medications such as Orlistat, Xenical, and the over-the-counter Alli provide different mechanisms to support weight loss. "Each treatment has unique advantages and considerations, so working closely with your doctor ensures you receive the safest and most personalised approach to achieve your goals.' Before beginning any weight loss treatment, please consult your GP or healthcare professional. These treatments may not be suitable for everyone.
