Struggling to shed weight despite healthy eating and regular exercise? You’re not alone—and you’re certainly not out of options. One treatment gaining serious attention is weight loss injections. But before jumping in, many people quite rightly ask: Are weight loss injections safe?
At Market Harborough Pharmacy, we provide access to licensed weight management injections like semaglutide (branded as Wegovy), alongside expert advice and ongoing support. In this guide, we’ll explore how these treatments work, who they’re suitable for, and the safety considerations you should be aware of.
Understanding Weight Loss Injections
Weight loss injections are designed to help reduce appetite, making it easier to consume fewer calories and build healthier habits. The most commonly prescribed medication in the UK is semaglutide, which mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1. This hormone plays an important role in controlling blood sugar and signalling fullness to the brain.
So, how exactly do they support weight loss?
- — Suppress appetite and reduce hunger signals
- — Help you feel full after eating smaller portions
- — Slow the rate your stomach empties
- — Improve blood sugar regulation
Combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, these injections can lead to meaningful, sustainable weight loss over time.
Are These Treatments Safe?
In short: yes, for the right patients and under medical supervision. Semaglutide has been approved for weight management in the UK by regulatory bodies like NICE and is prescribed by NHS weight loss services for patients with a high BMI.
Like any medical treatment, though, it’s not without risks. That’s why proper screening, assessment, and follow-up are essential.
Possible Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and occur during the early stages of treatment. Common ones include:
- — Nausea or an unsettled stomach
- — Constipation or diarrhoea
- — Headaches
- — Indigestion
- — Fatigue
These symptoms often settle after the first few weeks. Your pharmacist will advise you on how to manage any discomfort and help you decide whether the benefits outweigh the risks in your case.
Who Shouldn’t Use Weight Loss Injections?
Although widely used, these injections aren’t suitable for everyone. You should avoid this type of treatment if you:
- — Are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- — Have a personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers
- — Live with specific gastrointestinal issues like gastroparesis
- — Are allergic to any ingredient in the medication
At Market Harborough Pharmacy, we carry out a thorough health review through our weight management clinic. This is to ensure these injections are both safe and appropriate for you before issuing a prescription.
Who Might Benefit from Them?
These injections may be considered if:
- — You have a BMI of 30 or higher, or
- — Your BMI is 27 or higher with a weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnoea
- — You’ve already tried traditional weight loss methods without success
- — You’re committed to long-term changes, not just short-term fixes
The most effective outcomes happen when patients combine injections with healthier eating habits, regular physical activity, and follow-up care.
Why Choose a Pharmacy-Led Weight Loss Service?
At Market Harborough Pharmacy, we don’t just hand out a treatment and send you on your way. Our pharmacy-led model provides:
- — A private consultation with a qualified healthcare professional
- — Comprehensive health checks and eligibility screening
- — Tailored advice on lifestyle changes
- — Safe access to UK-approved treatments
- — Ongoing check-ins to track progress and make adjustments
This service ensures your weight loss journey is guided, safe, and fully supported.
Your Step-by-Step Plan
Here’s what you can expect if you choose to begin your weight loss journey with us:
Step 1: Consultation
You’ll meet with one of our trained pharmacists, who will ask about your health background, goals, and previous weight loss attempts.
Step 2: Treatment Plan
If you’re eligible, we’ll guide you through how to use the injection safely and what to expect in the early stages. We’ll also provide lifestyle tips to improve your results.
Step 3: Follow-Up
We’ll check in regularly to see how you’re doing, answer any questions, and make any necessary changes to your plan. You’re never on your own.
The Market Harborough Pharmacy Approach
We know how difficult it can be to lose weight—and how overwhelming treatment options can feel. That’s why our service is built around clarity, safety, and long-term success.
Here’s what makes us different:
- — Friendly, non-judgemental support
- — Trusted treatments approved by UK regulators
- — Personalised care from trained pharmacy professionals
- — Local service that fits around your schedule
- — Ongoing motivation and progress tracking
Whether this is your first step or your latest effort, we’re here to walk alongside you and help you feel in control.
Book Your Weight Loss Consultation Today
Still asking are weight loss injections safe? Get in touch and let us help you make an informed decision.
With expert pharmacists and a compassionate approach, Market Harborough Pharmacy makes it easy to access trusted advice and treatments in a safe, supportive environment.
This blog was written on behalf of Market Harborough Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
