Weight Loss Injections: Do They Really Work and Take Away Hunger?
In recent years, so-called “weight loss injections” have gained enormous popularity, especially among overweight or obese people seeking effective alternatives to traditional diets or bariatric surgery. Although not vaccines in the strict sense (they do not prevent infectious diseases), these injections work by regulating appetite and blood sugar levels, which can lead to significant weight loss.
Among the best known are Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy, all approved by health authorities for the treatment of obesity or type 2 diabetes, but increasingly used for cosmetic or weight loss purposes. Below, we explore how they work, their benefits, side effects and key differences.
How Do These Weight Loss Injections Work?
These injections are drugs that mimic the effect of intestinal hormones called incretins (such as GLP-1 and GIP). These hormones:
- Reduce appetite
- Delay stomach emptying (causing a feeling of fullness for a longer time)
- Regulates blood sugar levels
- They can improve insulin sensitivity.
The result: less hunger, lower caloric intake and sustained weight loss.
The Most Popular Injections for Weight Loss
1. Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Primary use: Type 2 diabetes
- Weight loss: Between 5% and 10% of body weight over several months.
- Dosage: Weekly injection
- Common side effects: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea
Ozempic has gone viral on social networks such as TikTok and Instagram for its appetite suppressing abilities. Although it is not officially approved for weight loss in people without diabetes, many doctors prescribe it “off-label” for that purpose.
2. Wegovy (semaglutide)
- Primary use: Treatment of obesity
- Weight loss: up to 15% of body weight in clinical studies
- Dosage: Weekly injection, with higher doses than Ozempic.
- Approved by: FDA (USA) and EMA (Europe).
Wegovy contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic, but is specifically formulated and approved for weight loss in adults with high BMI.
3. Mounjaro (tirzepatida)
- Primary use: Type 2 diabetes
- Mechanism: Acts on two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP).
- Weight loss: Up to 20% in studies
- Advantage: Superior results to those of semaglutide.
Mounjaro is one of the most promising injections, with studies showing higher levels of weight loss than Ozempic and Wegovy. Its dual hormonal action makes it a very potent option for those struggling with severe obesity.
4. Zepbound (tirzepatida)
- Primary Use: Weight loss (Mounjaro version approved for obesity)
- FDA approved in 2023
- Expected weight loss: Up to 22% in some patients.
Zepbound is the “twin brother” of Mounjaro, but approved specifically for weight loss, not just diabetes.
Are These Injections Safe?
In general, clinical studies show that these drugs are safe when used under medical supervision. However, they are not without risk, especially in people with a history of pancreatic problems, severe gastrointestinal disease or a family history of certain types of thyroid cancer.
Common side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
In rare cases, they may cause pancreatitis, gallstones or severe allergic reactions.
Are they a Magic Solution for Slimming?
Although these medications have proven to be effective, they are not a miracle cure. They work best when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and physical activity. In addition, they must be prescribed by a healthcare professional, and their prolonged use requires regular medical follow-up.
Conclusion
So-called “weight loss injections” such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound represent a significant advance in the treatment of overweight and obesity, especially in patients who have difficulty losing weight by conventional means. Although they are not for everyone and should be used with caution, they can be a very useful tool within a comprehensive plan to improve health and wellness.
