Weight loss medication, such as weight loss tablets and injections, can be prescribed by a doctor when they determine that you are eligible for weight management treatment, alongside lifestyle changes and professional guidance. However, it’s not suitable for everyone, and a consultation with a doctor is necessary before taking them.
This page provides general information about weight loss medication to support informed discussions with your doctor. It is not intended as an advertisement. Only a licensed doctor or pharmacist can determine whether or not you are eligible for a certain type of drug.
How does weight loss medication work?
There are different types of weight loss drugs, and each type of medication has its own mechanism of action. So, there’s no universal answer for how medications for weight loss work.
For instance, medications that fall under the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists category work by mimicking the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormones in the body. This class of medications can affect parts of the brain that are related to reward, appetite and food selection.1 However, other classes of medications, such as lipase inhibitors, work in different ways.
That’s why it’s important to consult with your doctor about these medications. Only they can determine whether you are eligible for a certain type of medication and explain to you the mechanisms of action that are relevant to your treatment.
How do you take weight loss medication?
There are different ways to administer weight loss medication depending on the type and the needs of the one who is taking it.
For instance, GLP-1s are generally administered through subcutaneous injections.2 This means that they are administered just under the skin into fatty tissue. Common injection sites for subcutaneous administration are the upper arm, the outside part of the upper thigh and the lower belly, rotating them with each dose.3
There are also medications for weight management that come in tablet form. These are to be taken orally. Whether or not it must be taken with certain food depends on the specific type of medication.
Keep in mind, though, that this is just general information to contextualise your discussions with your doctor. When it comes to specific guidelines for medication administration, only your doctor can recommend specific instructions that are suitable for your condition and needs.
On top of that, only a doctor can prescribe you a specific dosage. Do not make any adjustments to your dosage regimen or stop treatment unless your doctor has approved these changes.
Adherence to the prescribed regimen is essential for the proper intake of any medication. Patients must strictly follow their doctor’s instructions regarding dosage, administration techniques and timing. On top of that, regular check-ins with doctors are important for tracking progress. This is true not just for weight loss drugs but also for any other medications.
Who can take weight loss medication?
There is no universal answer to this, seeing as there are many types of weight loss medications. So, the indications and contraindications can vary depending on the specific type of drug.
Plus, eligibility status can vary from person to person. Depending on the specific type of medication, factors that may affect your eligibility can include age, body mass index (BMI), medical history and any current health conditions.
Your doctor will take these and other pertinent health factors into account when conducting an assessment, which is why you’re required to consult one. Keep in mind, though, that consultation doesn’t guarantee a prescription. So, if your doctor rules that you’re not eligible, you cannot proceed with the medication.
Weight loss medication and other medications
Weight loss medications, including weight loss needles and tablets, can interact with other drugs. This is especially true if you’re taking a weight loss medication that slows down gastric emptying, which can affect the absorption of other medications taken. 4
That’s why, during your doctor’s assessment of whether you are eligible for a drug, it’s absolutely crucial that you communicate with them about any other medications you’re taking. They will be able to identify any combinations that may impact either treatment. If there are any, your doctor can decide to adjust your dosage or prescribe an alternative to your medication.
Medicines you should not use with weight loss medication
Some drugs may cause certain interactions that affect your treatment when used together with your weight loss medication. For instance, you may be prescribed a GLP-1 that isn’t allowed for concomitant use with insulins and other GLP-1 receptor agonists.5 The absorption of some hormonal contraceptives may also be affected when used with some GLP-1s.6
This is why it’s important to consult with your doctor and share with them a complete list of medications you’re taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and supplements. Their expert medical advice can help you avoid drug interactions that may affect your treatment.
How to order home delivery of medication with Chemist2U
Ordering from Chemist2U is easy. Simply upload your prescription into My Scripts and browse our extensive range of over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products. Once your order is placed, a partner pharmacist reviews and fills your prescription.
We then ensure your medication is delivered straight to your door, offering same day delivery, Express Post and Click & Collect options, subject to your location.
Join thousands of Australians who have made their medication easy with Chemist2U. Get started with us today.
Important note: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not advertise or promote the use of any prescription medication, including weight loss medications. Prescription medications can only be accessed after a clinical consultation with an authorised medical practitioner. All prescriptions are issued at the discretion of the consulting doctor in accordance with Australian medical guidelines.