Weight loss medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro seem to be all over the news, with countless stories of dramatic results and just as many about unwanted side effects. It’s no surprise that many people are now asking, “Are weight loss injections safe?”
While these medications can be highly effective, using them safely is what truly matters. At the Marion Gluck Clinic, we believe in safe, personalised weight management. That means combining effective treatments such as weight loss injections with expert medical guidance and lifestyle support, so you can lose weight whilst staying healthy – and keep the weight off, too.
We spoke with our weight management expert, Dr Shashi Prasad, to learn more about how these treatments work, the risks of using weight loss injections, and why a doctor-led approach makes all the difference.
How Weight Loss Injections Work
Weight loss injections, known as GLP-1 medications, work by helping control appetite, manage cravings, and regulate blood sugar, making it easier to eat less and feel full for longer. These medications work by mimicking natural gut hormones that:
- Slow digestion, keeping you fuller for longer
- Reduce cravings for sugary or high-calorie foods
- Help regulate blood sugar, preventing energy crashes that lead to overeating
Put simply, these medications can make weight loss more manageable and sustainable, especially for those who struggle despite of good nutrition and exercise.
Understanding the Side Effects
“The most frequent side effects of GLP-1 medications are gut related, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, and acid reflux. Some patients also experience fatigue, headaches or hair loss. While these can sound concerning, many improve with dose adjustment and supportive care,” says weight management expert, Dr Shashi Prasad.
While GLP-1 and GIP-based therapies can be highly effective, using them without proper medical supervision carries real risks.
With weight loss medications becoming easier to buy online, many people are using them without proper guidance, leading to serious side effects, even hospital admissions that are often reported in the news.
Side effects of weight loss injections include:
- Digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation.
- Nutrient deficiencies, as very low food intake can lower vitamin or mineral levels.
- Excessive muscle loss causing sarcopenia, or excess fat loss from face leading to “Ozempic face”.
- Drop in blood sugar, particularly in those with diabetes or metabolic conditions.
- Localised injection site skin reaction
- Possible Drug interactions with existing prescriptions.
- Serious complications affecting the pancreas, liver, or kidneys if not monitored
So, Are Weight Loss Injections Safe?
In short, weight loss injections are very safe when prescribed correctly and closely monitored by a doctor. The key factor is how they are used and the level of medical supervision throughout treatment.
“It’s natural to feel cautious about medical weight loss treatments. The good news is, when prescribed and monitored by experienced doctors, these therapies can be both safe and effective. Monitoring ensures side effects are caught early, and treatments are adjusted to support each patient’s health journey,” explains Dr Shashi.
A tailored, medically supervised plan ensures that your dosage, nutrition, and overall health all work together to promote sustainable weight loss rather than rapid, unsupervised changes that could be harmful.
“Safety begins with a thorough assessment of each patient’s medical history, current medications, and overall health. Doctors tailor treatment to individual needs while monitoring weight, muscle mass, blood sugar levels, and side effects. This reduces risks and ensures patients get maximum benefit in the safest way possible,” she adds.
Why Hormones Matter
Weight management isn’t just about diet or exercise. Hormones play a major role in how easily you can maintain a healthy weight.
“During menopause for women, declining estrogen levels often lead to fat gain, muscle loss, and a slower metabolism. Body fat is often redistributed, with an increase in visceral fat around the middle. Men experience similar challenges with declining testosterone levels during andropause. These hormonal changes can make weight management more difficult, even for people following very healthy nutrition and exercise plans,” explains Dr Shashi.
Doctor-Led Weight Loss
At the Marion Gluck Clinic, your safety always comes first. Every patient begins with a thorough medical assessment, which covers your personal history, current medications, family background, and any existing health conditions.
This allows us to design a treatment plan that is both effective and safe, giving you peace of mind if you’ve ever wondered, “Are weight loss injections safe?”
This level of care ensures you can lose weight safely while maintaining your overall health. Doctor-led supervision also allows us to adjust your treatment as your body changes, keeping results steady and sustainable.
“Unlike self-managed or purely commercial programs, doctor-led weight management is rooted in evidence-based practice and patient safety. Doctors ensure treatments are appropriate, monitor for complications, and help patients achieve sustainable, long-term results rather than short-term fixes,” says Dr Shashi Prasad.
Why Choose Professional Weight Management?
When you become a patient at our weight loss clinic team, you get:
- Safe, sustainable weight loss. Studies show patients can lose up to 15% of body weight in a year with supervised treatment.
- Improved appetite control. Feel fuller for longer and reduce emotional or binge eating.
- Better blood sugar control. GLP-1 and GIP therapies help balance insulin and glucose levels. So that you can feel more in control of your cravings.
- Long-term support. We help you develop healthy habits and maintain your results for life.
At the Marion Gluck Clinic, it’s not just about the number on the scale, it’s about helping you feel healthier and more confident in your body.
Ongoing Monitoring and Support
“In our programme, ongoing monitoring includes regular blood tests to assess liver, pancreas, kidney, and blood sugar. This helps avoid common complications such as pancreatitis or gallbladder issues. We also review any side effects and advise on how to minimise them. Tracking changes in body composition is paramount, aiming for fat loss while preserving muscle mass. This is crucial in preventing excessive muscle depletion,” says Dr Shashi.
Research shows that many people on GLP-1 medications regain around two-thirds of their lost weight within the first year of stopping treatment. At the Marion Gluck Clinic we focus on strategies and lifestyle changes to help maintain muscle and sustain weight loss in the long term, rather than simply prescribing weight loss injections.
Watch our video as Dr Shashi explains who can benefit from our personalised weight loss service.
What to Expect At Marion Gluck
Our doctor-led weight management programme is designed around you.
Here’s what to expect:
- Book Your Inquiry Call – Choose a time that suits you, and our Patient Care Team will be in touch.
- Initial Appointment – Complete a short questionnaire and speak with us via video consultation.
- Consultation with Dr. Shashi – We review your health, goals, and suitability for medication. A simple blood test ensures your treatment is safe, and your medication is delivered directly to your door.
- Follow-Up Check-Ins – At three and six months, we review your progress, adjust your plan, and provide ongoing guidance to help you stay on track.
Our holistic weight management programme combines medical treatment with lifestyle advice, empowering you to lose weight safely and keep it off for good.
Start Your Weight Loss Journey Now
Weight loss medications are a powerful tool to help you lose weight, but only if used safely. At the Marion Gluck Clinic, our doctor-led approach ensures you reach your weight loss goals and stay healthy while doing so.
Ready to take control of your health? Book your enquiry call today and start your journey toward a healthier, more confident you.
