Suffolk nutritionist urges caution against new weight loss injection
It's set to be sold at a high street store
Last updated 21st Feb 2023
A Suffolk nutritionist says anyone wanting to lose weight shouldn't rely on a new jab - which is set to be sold at Boots.
The high street chemist announced last week it would be offering Wegovy - an injection that reduces appetite.
A similar drug has gained popularity with some celebrities in the US.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has said their independent appraisal committee says it can be offered as an option for weight management, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity in adults, only if:
• they have at least one weight-related comorbidity and:
• a BMI at least 35.0 kg/m2, or
• exceptionally, a BMI of 30.0 kg/m2 to 34.9 kg/m2 if they are referred to tier 3 services based on the criteria in NICE’s clinical guideline on obesity: identification, assessment and management.
According to NICE, it will cost £73.25 per pack (4 pre-filled pens).
What does a nutritionist think?
Nutritional therapist Virginia Hendry works at The Natural Health Centre in Woodbridge.
She told us studies she's seen of the drug suggest it may cause gastro-intestinal issues:
"In the studies I've seen, 95% of people suffered gastro intestinal disorder dysfunction while taking this drug.
‘Any health practitioner should think people having gastro intestinal disorder, even if it's mild, is not a good thing."
Advice to those taking the drug
‘I am sure the GPs will mention this, because this is how the trials were conducted, when people were on it, they were given counselling about diet and lifestyle changes which are crucial to it working.
‘That really needs to be drilled home - that for this to work well it must go hand in hand with lifestyle changes.
‘You also need to change what you put in your mouth and be better nourished...
‘Sleep is also massively important."