Obesity is caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors, and therefore diet and exercise alone are not always sufficient for weight loss. The cause and management of obesity is still greatly misunderstood, causing people living with obesity to feel as though they are to blame, and they continue to face stigma, bias and discrimination, all of which can have a significant impact on their mental health.

• Obesity is a complex disease that can be caused by multiple factors. Up to 70% of weight health can be linked to genetics and it can also be influenced by physiological, psychological, environmental and socio-economic factors

Our weight changes when energy intake is not equal to energy expenditure. This is referred to as our ‘energy balance’, and is influenced by many factors, some of which are outside of our control.

Biology: Up to 70% of the causes of obesity can be linked to genetics, family history and ethnicity. In some cases, genetics can increase the risk of a person developing obesity by 20–30%. Some medical conditions can cause people to gain weight – for example, conditions affecting the endocrine system can cause hormone imbalances that affect a person’s energy balance.

Psychological wellbeing: some people eat more when they are tired, angry or stressed, or as a result of some common medications, e.g. antidepressants

As a result, it’s not surprising that two people who exercise and eat equal amounts, will likely have different body shapes, and won’t lose weight at the same momentum. Identical twins could have entirely different eating habits and levels of exercise, but ultimately similar body weights due to their near-matching genetic make-up.

What are common health consequences of obesity?

It is crucial to take measures to tackle obesity because it can lead to several serious and potentially life-threatening conditions like:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Coronary heart disease
• Some types of cancer, such as breast cancer and bowel cancer
• Musculoskeletal disorders, especially osteoarthritis
• Stroke

Besides your physical health, obesity can also affect your overall quality of life. This can lead to mental health problems, such as depression and low self-esteem.

What is a Medicated Weight Loss Service?

We can help you on your journey to better weight management. With ongoing advice and support alongside a prescription medication treatment we can help you achieve a sustained and healthy weight loss.

It is a daily injection, which used alongside a calorie-controlled diet and increased exercise, has been shown to help patients lose weight*.

How the Medicated Weight Loss Service works

Is the Medicated Weight Loss Service suitable for me?

You are eligible for the Medicated Weight Loss Service if:

* You are aged 18 to 75

* You have a BMI of over 30

* Or a BMI of over 27 but have been diagnosed with a condition that is made worse by weight gain such as a heart condition

The monthly cost for the service is £260, this includes the cost of all your injections for that month. After 12 weeks of treatment you will have a progress review consultation with your Pharmacist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which of our Pharmacies offer the Medicated Weight Loss Service?

This service is available in our Pharmacies in Liddesdale Square (59 Liddesdale Square, Milton, Glasgow, G22 7BT) and Riddrie (248 Smithycroft Road, Glasgow, G33 2QZ).

Do I need to book an appointment?

Yes please, this ensures that we have a Pharmacist present who can offer this service and we have time dedicated for your appointment. Please book your appointment using the "Book Now" button shown above.

Is there anything I need to do in preparation for my appointment?

No, your Pharmacist will explain everything that you need to know, including how to use the weight loss injections. They will also be able to answer any questions that you might have.

What happens after my first appointment?

You will receive access to in-app coaching and weekly telephone calls from the Pharmacy who will give you all the support you may require during these first few weeks of your treatment.

How long will the service take?

Your first appointment for the Medicated Weight Loss Service will last approximately 20 minutes.

What do I get as part of the Weight Loss Service?

As part of your first consultation you will receive:

• One months' worth of medication
• A welcome pack including healthy lifestyle support tips and tools to keep you motivated
• Access to exclusive coaching throughout your weight loss journey with access to the Liva Healthcare app
• Accessories needed to administer the service such as needles and sharps pin

You will also get a Weight Loss Service pack which includes:

• Advice on setting and sticking to your weight loss goals
• Healthy eating and exercise top tips
• Long term weight management support
• Other resources to help you reach your goals

Who can't use the Medicated Weight Loss Service?

There are certain people that can't use our Weight Loss Service due to the medication used in Saxenda®

You are not eligible for the Medicated Weight Loss Service if:

• You are under 18 years of age
• You are over 75 years of age
• You are hypersensitive to liraglutide or any of the other ingredients of the medicine
• You are pregnant, think that you might be pregnant or planning to have a baby within the next 6 months
• You are breastfeeding
• You are currently on treatment with GLP1-RA e.g. Victoza
• You have an initial BMI of 27-30 and don't have a weight-related health condition
• You have an initial BMI of less than 27

If you have any of the following medical conditions, you're not eligible for this service:

• Hepatic impairment (liver)
• Renal impairment (kidney)
• Congestive heart failure
• Obesity secondary to endocrinological
• An eating disorder
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Diabetic gastroparesis
• A history of pancreatitis
• Thyroid disease

How do weight loss injections work?

The weight loss injection used in this service helps to increase the feeling of fullness, decreases hunger and therefore reducing food intake.  Patients taking Saxenda® reported feeling more satisfied after eating and eating less than before they were prescribed the medication.

What is the prescription medicine used in the injection?

The injection Saxenda® is available from our Pharmacists who can make a decision to supply as part of our Medicated Weight Loss Service if appropriate.

Are there any side effects associated with the weight loss injection?

Like will all medicines, Saxenda® may cause side effects, although not all patients will experience them. During your appointment your Pharmacist will be able to answer any questions you may have and explain the possible side effects for you. The most common side effects of Saxenda® are nausea, diarrhoea, constipation and vomiting. These side effects usually go away after a few days or weeks.

Are there any drug interactions with weight loss injections?

Talk to your Doctor, Pharmacist or Nurse before using Saxenda® if you take medication for diabetes or to thin your blood.