GLP-1 medications are prescription treatments that mimic the action of a natural hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1. They help regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite.

They were originally developed for people with type 2 diabetes, but some are also licensed for weight management in the UK.

Common GLP-1 medications include:

• Semaglutide (brand names: Ozempic®, Wegovy®)

• Liraglutide (brand name: Saxenda®)

• Dulaglutide (brand name: Trulicity®)

• Tirzepatide (brand name: Mounjaro® – dual GLP-1/GIP agonist)

Availability depends on whether you are using the NHS or a private provider.

GLP-1s slow down how quickly food leaves your stomach, reduce hunger signals, and help you feel full sooner. Over time, this can lead to lower calorie intake and weight loss.

Yes GLP-1s are prescription-only medicines in the UK. Your GP or a qualified prescriber (such as a private clinic or pharmacy service) will assess whether they are suitable for you.

You may be eligible if you meet NICE criteria, such as:

• Having type 2 diabetes not well-controlled with other treatments

• Having obesity with certain weight-related health risks

However:

• NHS prescribing is subject to strict guidelines

• Availability can vary between NHS trusts

• Weight loss prescriptions like Wegovy® are currently prioritised for people meeting very specific criteria and via specialist weight management services

• You must have a consultation (online or in person) with a qualified prescriber

• A full medical history and sometimes recent blood tests may be required

• You can be prescribed GLP-1s for weight management even if you don’t meet NHS criteria, provided the prescriber considers it safe and appropriate

• You’ll need to pay for the medication in full and costs vary widely between providers

• Repeat prescriptions usually require regular reviews (often every 4–12 weeks)

Most GLP-1s come in a prefilled injection pen designed for easy self-administration.

• The pens use a very fine needle inserted just under the skin (usually into the thigh, stomach, or upper arm)

• Injections are usually once a week (for drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide) or daily (for liraglutide)

• Pens are designed for single-patient use. Never share them with anyone else

• Always follow your prescriber’s instructions on pen handling, needle changes, and safe disposal

Titrating means gradually increasing the dose over time.

• This approach helps your body adjust to the medicine

• It reduces the likelihood and severity of side effects (such as nausea)

• Your prescriber will provide a titration schedule, for example, starting on the lowest dose for 4 weeks, then stepping up gradually

• Never change your dose without medical advice

In the UK, eligibility criteria for GLP-1 medication depend on whether you’re getting it via the NHS or privately:

On the NHS (for weight management) – NICE guidance currently recommends:

• A BMI of 35 or above with at least one weight-related health condition (e.g. high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, type 2 diabetes)

• In some cases, a BMI of 30–34.9 with significant weight-related health risks, if referred by a specialist weight management service

• For people of South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean heritage, lower BMI thresholds may apply (usually reduced by 2.5 kg/m²)

Private prescriptions – Criteria can be less restrictive:

• Many providers will consider prescribing from a BMI of 27 if there are weight-related health concerns

• Some will only require a BMI of 30 or above without additional conditions

• The prescriber must still assess safety and suitability based on your medical history

💡 Important: BMI is only one part of the assessment — your prescriber will also consider your health risks, medication history, and readiness for lifestyle changes.

There’s currently no set time limit in UK guidelines for how long someone can stay on GLP-1 medication, as long as it remains safe, effective, and appropriate for their health.

• On the NHS:

  • For weight management, some GLP-1s (e.g. Wegovy®) are approved for use for up to 2 years under NICE guidance, usually alongside a structured weight loss programme.

  • For type 2 diabetes, GLP-1s may be used long-term if they help control blood sugar and are tolerated.

  • NHS prescribing beyond 2 years for weight loss alone is not currently standard.

• Privately:

  • There’s more flexibility, and some people remain on GLP-1 medication for the long term to maintain weight loss, provided they continue to have regular reviews with a prescriber.

  • Your prescriber will check whether the benefits outweigh any risks at each review.

💡 Many people regain weight after stopping GLP-1 medication if they don’t have sustainable diet, activity, and behaviour habits in place, so ongoing support is important.

Yes GLP-1s are prescription-only, so you should:

• Carry them in your hand luggage when flying

• Keep them in their original packaging with your name on the label

• Carry a copy of your prescription if travelling abroad

• Follow storage guidelines (some require refrigeration before first use)

  For more information checkout our Traveling with GLPs Blog post

Many people tolerate GLP-1s well, but possible side effects include:

• Nausea

• Constipation or diarrhoea

• Bloating

• Injection site reactions

These often settle as your body adjusts. If side effects are severe or persistent, speak to your prescriber.

GLP-1s are not suitable for everyone. They may not be recommended if you:

• Have certain thyroid conditions

• Have a history of pancreatitis

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Are allergic to any of the ingredients

Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider.

Yes , GLP-1 medication works best alongside a balanced diet and regular movement. This helps preserve muscle, improve overall health, and support long-term results.

Eating well on GLP-1s is all about getting the most nutrition from smaller portions. Aim for protein at every meal, plenty of vegetables, healthy fats, and slow-release carbs.
Avoid foods that cause discomfort, like greasy or highly processed meals, especially when you’re adjusting to the medication.

📖 Read our full guide with tips, meal ideas, and portion advice here:
What to Eat on GLP-1s – GLPReset Hub Blog

Yes gentle to moderate exercise is encouraged, and it can help preserve muscle, boost mood, and support long-term results. Start slowly, listen to your body, and choose activities you enjoy.
If you’re new to exercise or have health conditions, speak to your healthcare provider before starting something new.

📖 Read our full post with GLP-1-friendly exercise ideas here:
Exercising on GLP-1s – GLPReset Hub Blog

If you stop, your appetite is likely to return to its previous levels. Without healthy habits in place, weight regain is common. Ongoing lifestyle support can help maintain results.

While your healthcare provider is the best place for medical advice, it can be reassuring to connect with others who understand the GLP-1 journey.

The GLPReset Hub is a UK-based online community for people using GLP-1 medication or maintaining weight loss after use. Members can:

• Join group chats and weekly online meet-ups

• Share tips, recipes, and experiences

• Hear from guest experts in health, nutrition, and wellbeing

• Access member-only discounts on products and services

  Join HERE