Weight loss can be a challenging journey, and for some, medications like Wegovy® and Mounjaro™ offer medically supported options to achieve their goals. However, a common question arises: Are weight loss medications safe?
This blog post aims to answer that question by explaining how these medications work, who they are suitable for, and why they must be prescribed under strict medical guidelines.
At Peppermint Clinic, safety and holistic care are at the forefront of our approach, ensuring that these treatments are part of a sustainable plan for long-term health and well-being.

What Are Weight Loss Medications?
Wegovy® and Mounjaro™ belong to a class of medications known as incretin mimetics. These injectable treatments mimic the effects of natural hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. Here’s a closer look at each:
Wegovy®: A GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the action of glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone involved in regulating appetite and food intake.
Mounjaro™: A dual agonist targeting both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors, which may enhance its effects on weight loss and metabolic health.
Administered as weekly injections, these medications help to reduce hunger, improve satiety, and support sustainable weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes.
How Do They Work?
These medications work by leveraging the body’s natural hormones to support weight loss and improve metabolic health. Here’s the science behind it:
Appetite Regulation: GLP-1 and GIP hormones signal the brain to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness, helping individuals consume fewer calories.
Slower Gastric Emptying: They slow down how quickly food leaves the stomach, prolonging satiety after meals.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity: By enhancing insulin secretion in response to meals, they help regulate blood sugar levels more effectively.
Metabolic Benefits: Over time, these effects contribute to sustained weight loss, reduced inflammation, and improved markers of metabolic health, such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
The result? Patients often experience significant, gradual weight loss alongside improved overall health.
Who Are Weight Loss Medications Suitable For?
Weight loss medications like Wegovy® and Mounjaro™ are not for everyone. They are specifically designed for individuals who meet certain clinical criteria, ensuring they are used safely and effectively.
You may qualify for these treatments if:
You have a BMI of 30 or above (obesity).
You have a BMI of 27 or above (overweight) and are managing a weight-related health condition such as:
Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Sleep apnea
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Cardiovascular disease, among others.
These criteria ensure that the medications are prescribed safely and effectively to individuals in accordance with current research and medical guidelines. Individuals who do not meet these criteria will not be eligible for this treatment.
Who Should Avoid Weight Loss Medications?
While these medications are effective for many, they are not suitable for everyone. You should avoid weight loss medications if:
You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
You have liver, kidney, or heart failure, or an eating disorder.
You have experienced pancreatitis or are taking certain medications such as insulin or other weight loss drugs.
You are over 75 years old or have other contraindications as assessed during a medical consultation.
A thorough medical consultation ensures that these treatments are prescribed safely and responsibly.

Why Lifestyle Changes Matter
It’s important to understand that weight loss medications are not a magic solution. They are most effective when combined with meaningful lifestyle changes. At Peppermint Clinic, we emphasise:
Nutrition: Making healthier food choices to support your weight loss goals.
Activity: Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine.
Sleep: Ensuring good sleep hygiene to improve overall health and metabolism.
These small but impactful changes enhance the effectiveness of the medications and promote sustainable results.
Why Regular Monitoring Is Key
At Peppermint Clinic, we prioritise your safety and progress through regular, in-person consultations. Each month, we review your weight loss journey holistically, focusing on:
Monitoring your weight, BMI and overall health.
Addressing challenges related to sleep, nutrition, and activity levels.
Adjusting your treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal results.
This hands-on approach ensures you’re not only losing weight safely but also developing habits to maintain your progress long-term.
What Are the Potential Side Effects?
Like any medication, Wegovy® and Mounjaro™ may have side effects. Common ones include:
Nausea, reflux or gastrointestinal discomfort (often temporary).
Constipation or diarrhoea.
Fatigue or mild dizziness.
Injection site reactions.
Severe side effects, such as persistent vomiting or signs of pancreatitis, are rare but require immediate medical attention.
Close clinical monitoring helps manage any side effects effectively and ensures your safety throughout the treatment.
Ensuring Your Medication Is Safe and Sourced Correctly
The rise in popularity of weight loss medications has unfortunately led to the emergence of counterfeit products in the UK market. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has reported several seizures of fake weight loss medications, some of which were found to contain insulin and resulted in serious health consequences, including hospitalisations for urgent medical care.
To protect your health, it is crucial to obtain weight loss medication exclusively through a qualified healthcare professional and ensure it is sourced from a registered pharmacy.
At Peppermint Clinic each monthly pen is prescribed to you by a healthcare professional and we source all our medications from registered pharmacies, namely AAH Pharmaceuticals Ltd and Primed Pharmacy.
Conclusion
Weight loss medications like Wegovy® and Mounjaro™ can be safe and effective tools for achieving significant weight loss—when prescribed and monitored responsibly.
At Peppermint Clinic, our patient-centred approach ensures that these treatments are part of a comprehensive plan, focusing on your long-term health and well-being.
If you’re considering weight loss medication, book an in-person consultation with us today. Let’s work together to create a plan that supports your journey toward a healthier, happier you.