What you need to know
Ozempic injections in Edinburgh
Ozempic and Wegovy are both brand names of a drug (medication) that is called Semaglutide. Semaglutide is one of several types of drugs commonly known as “GLP-1s”, which work by turning on switches called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors in the body’s cells, which makes your body make more insulin and less glucagon and slows down the movement of food through your stomach. These changes mean your stomach is fuller for longer, so you want to eat less.
While Ozempic and Wegovy are the same type of medication, only Wegovy is licensed for weight loss. Ozempic can only be prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. If you need to buy weight loss injections in Edinburgh, Wegovy is an approved medication for weight loss in the UK. At Edinburgh Weight Loss Clinic, we provide education on Ozempic and offer Wegovy treatments.
See if you’re eligible for a Ozempic alternative.
Ozempic vs Wegovy
When considering treatment options for health conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity, it’s important to understand the differences and similarities between medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Both drugs use the same active ingredient, semaglutide, but are prescribed for different reasons and at different dosages. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you determine which might be more suitable for your health needs.
Ozempic purpose and usage
Ozempic is a once-weekly injection used to manage type 2 diabetes. It helps to improve blood sugar levels and enhance the body’s insulin response. Although Ozempic is not prescribed specifically for weight loss, losing weight can be a beneficial side effect.
Wegovy purpose and usage
Wegovy is specifically licensed for weight loss in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or who are overweight (BMI ≥27) and have at least one weight-related condition, such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes. It is a weight loss injection focused solely on helping users achieve significant and sustained weight loss.
Mechanism of action
Ozempic and Wegovy operate by mimicking the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) hormone involved in appetite regulation. This action helps decrease hunger and increase feelings of fullness after meals, which can reduce overall calorie intake. Patients can lose up to 15% of body weight with Wegovy.
Dosage and administration
Ozempic and Wegovy are typically prescribed at lower doses, increasing every 4 weeks up to a maximum dosage depending on the patient’s reaction to the medication, side effects, and doctor’s discretion. This titration is designed to improve the tolerability and effectiveness of the medication for patients.
Side effects
Wegovy and Ozempic can cause similar side effects, including feeling sick, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and constipation. However, due to its higher dosages, Wegovy may have a higher incidence of stomach side effects. Wegovy and Ozempic side effects are generally temporary and reduce over time. We manage the increase in your dose to reduce the risk of side effects. If you have serious or intolerable side effects, you must stop taking the medication and see your doctor immediately.
Wegovy vs Ozempic summary
Choosing between Ozempic and Wegovy should be based on your specific health objectives-whether that’s primarily managing type 2 diabetes or achieving weight loss. It is crucial to discuss with your healthcare provider which medication better aligns with your health goals and medical history.
Achieve up to 26% weight loss with injections
We offer effective alternatives to Ozempic weight loss injections.
Supporting your mental health
Obesity, being overweight mental health problems, such as depression and eating disorders, can negatively affect each other, making it harder to manage your weight. It’s important to recognise the link between your mental health and your weight so you can seek help if you need it.
Talking therapies
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be effective for tackling the psychological challenges associated with eating disorders and obesity. It focuses on changing the way you think and behave, helping to break the cycle of negative thoughts and actions that can impact eating habits and body image.
To find a CBT therapist via the NHS, you can refer yourself or speak to your GP, who can refer you to talking therapies in Edinburgh.
Why it’s important
Keeping active
Exercise doesn’t just burn calories. By triggering the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers, exercise has been shown to help combat depression and anxiety.
There’s plenty of ways to stay active in Edinburgh, from local gyms and fitness classes to parks and recreational facilities.
Support in Edinburgh
In Edinburgh, NHS Lothian provides comprehensive mental health support for Wegovy patients. They can help with eating disorders and weight-related mental health issues.
Discuss your mental health with your GP in Edinburgh who can refer you to a specialist. You may also be able to refer yourself directly without a referral, but you will need to be registered with a GP to get talking therapies on the NHS. You can find a GP in Edinburgh on the NHS website.
Medically reviewed
This page was last medically reviewed by Dr Adam Abbs on 4 June 2024.
Edinburgh Weight Loss Clinic is committed to providing you with the most objective, trustworthy and accurate health information.
Our content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and guidelines.
Dr Adam Abbs
MBBS FRCGP PGCCE FHEA
Dr Adam Abbs is an NHS-trained GP with a keen focus on digital health, AI in healthcare, and personalised medicine, including weight loss. He is a leader in creating new ways to provide safe and easy-to-access healthcare through remote care. Dr Abbs is also a skilled medical writer and wrote the RCGP-accredited Remote Consultation Handbook in 2020.
GMC Number: 7078829