The UK's most complete GLP-1 guide
Every Question Answered. Every Side Effect Explained.
- How GLP-1 medications work
- Mounjaro vs Wegovy compared
- Injection instructions
- Side effects & solutions
- What to eat on treatment
- FAQs answered
Free tracker included with every download this week
Ayurvedic Weight Loss and UK Prescription Alternatives
Ayurvedic medicine offers traditional approaches to weight management through diet, lifestyle, and herbal remedies. However, if you're seeking medically-supported weight loss in the UK, prescription medications are available for eligible adults. This guide explores both traditional ayurvedic perspectives and evidence-based prescription weight management options, including GLP-1 injections and NHS services. We'll help you understand what's available and how to discuss your options with your GP.
10,000+ calculations today · NHS-aligned thresholds · 100% free
Calculate Your BMI Instantly
Enter your height and weight below. Supports both imperial (stone & lbs) and metric (kg). Results include NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity adjustments.
What Is BMI and Why Does It Matter?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most widely used screening tool for assessing whether your weight falls within a healthy range. Used by the NHS, GPs, and weight management services across the UK, BMI provides a quick snapshot of your weight relative to your height. The formula is simple: your weight in kilograms divided by your height in metres squared (kg/m²).
While BMI isn't a perfect measure — it doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution — it remains the standard first step in identifying potential weight-related health risks including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
The NHS also recommends adjusted thresholds for people of South Asian, Chinese, or Black African heritage — a BMI of 23 or above is classified as overweight, and 27.5 as obese. Our calculator includes this adjustment as a one-click toggle.
UK-Licensed Prescription Weight Loss Medications
If you're looking for clinically-proven weight management support in the UK, three prescription medications are currently licensed for weight loss: Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Wegovy (semaglutide), and Saxenda (liraglutide). These are GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist medications that work by reducing appetite and helping you feel fuller after smaller meals. Clinical trials have shown average weight loss of 15–21% of body weight when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Eligibility typically requires a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease. You can calculate your personal BMI using our free BMI calculator above to see where you currently stand. Access to prescription weight loss treatment in the UK is available through NHS specialist weight management services or private prescribing following an online clinical assessment with a UK-licensed prescriber.
Clinically BackedWeight Loss
No appointments. No waiting rooms. Just care — from a UK-regulated online pharmacy.
How It Works
Three simple steps to understand your weight and take action.
Enter your height and weight in our free calculator. Get your BMI, NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity-adjusted thresholds instantly.
If your BMI suggests you're overweight or obese, explore our GLP-1 calculators to project potential weight loss on Mounjaro or Wegovy.
Use our progress tracker to log your weight weekly, visualise your journey with charts, and stay motivated — all stored privately in your browser.
Free Weight Loss Tools & Guides
Everything you need to understand your weight, explore medication options, and track your progress — completely free.
How to Access Weight Loss Support in the UK
NHS route: If you're eligible, ask your GP for a referral to your local tier 3 specialist weight management service. NHS access is free but availability varies significantly by region and waiting times can be substantial. Private route: GPhC-registered online pharmacies offer prescription weight loss medication following a remote clinical assessment, typically available within days. Private costs range from approximately £129–£320 monthly depending on your dose.
Whether you're interested in complementary ayurvedic approaches or prescription medication, sustainable weight loss combines medical support with lifestyle changes. Use our free weight loss calculator to estimate potential results with GLP-1 medication, and our progress tracker to monitor your journey as you work toward your health goals.
- Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 22.5% body weight loss (SURMOUNT-1)
- Weekly injection, dose escalation over 20+ weeks
- Available via private prescription in the UK
- Doses: 2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 15–17% body weight loss (STEP trials)
- Weekly injection, 5-step dose escalation
- NHS & private prescription available
- Doses: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Head-to-Head
A side-by-side comparison of the two most popular GLP-1 weight loss medications available in the UK.
| Feature | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Drug class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist |
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Avg. weight loss | 15–22.5% | 12–17% |
| Key trial | SURMOUNT-1 (2022) | STEP 1 (2021) |
| Max dose | 15 mg weekly | 2.4 mg weekly |
| Escalation period | 20–32 weeks | 16–20 weeks |
| Administration | Weekly injection (pen) | Weekly injection (pen) |
| NHS availability | Private prescription only | NHS & private |
| Approx. private cost | £150–£250/month | £150–£300/month |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
Data sourced from SURMOUNT-1 and STEP 1 clinical trials. Costs are approximate and vary by provider. Always consult a prescriber.
Am I Eligible for Weight Loss Medication?
In the UK, eligibility for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy is based on your BMI and overall health profile.
- BMI of 30 or above (obese)
- Age 18 or over
- No contraindicated conditions
- Committed to lifestyle changes
- BMI of 27 or above
- Plus type 2 diabetes
- Or high blood pressure
- Or obstructive sleep apnoea
Use our BMI calculator to check whether your BMI falls within the eligible range.
How We Built These Tools
Every calculator and guide on myweightcheck is built with accuracy and transparency in mind. Our BMI calculator uses the standard WHO formula with NHS-aligned category thresholds. Our GLP-1 projections are modelled on published clinical trial data from SURMOUNT and STEP studies.
All data stays on your device. We don't require sign-ups, and we don't store your health information on any server. Your progress tracker saves data locally in your browser using localStorage, so only you can see it.
We're based in the UK and our tools are designed specifically for UK users — supporting stone & lbs by default, referencing NHS guidelines, using NICE-approved medication data, and linking to GPhC-registered pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about BMI, weight loss medications, and our free UK tools.
What is the difference between ayurvedic weight loss and prescription medication?
Ayurvedic approaches use traditional herbs, dietary practices, and lifestyle changes rooted in Indian traditional medicine, while prescription weight loss medications are clinically-tested drugs that work on specific appetite and metabolism pathways. Prescription medications offer measurable, evidence-based results, but require a prescription and clinical assessment. Both approaches can complement each other as part of a holistic weight management plan.
Am I eligible for prescription weight loss medication in the UK?
You may be eligible if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with at least one weight-related health condition (such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease). Use our BMI calculator to check your current BMI, then discuss eligibility with your GP or a licensed prescriber for personalised advice.
What is the average weight loss with UK prescription weight loss medications?
Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15–21% of body weight over 68–72 weeks with Mounjaro or Wegovy, though individual results vary significantly. Our GLP-1 weight loss calculator can help you estimate potential results based on your starting weight. Weight loss is most effective when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Can I get prescription weight loss medication on the NHS?
Yes, tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and semaglutide (Wegovy) are available through NHS specialist tier 3 weight management services, but access varies by region and waiting times can be long. Your GP can refer you for assessment, or you can access private prescribing through online pharmacies without an NHS referral.
Are there side effects with prescription weight loss injections?
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach discomfort, especially during dose increases. Most side effects are mild and improve over time. Serious side effects are rare but can include severe stomach pain or pancreatitis. Your prescriber will monitor you throughout treatment and discuss any concerns.
Ready to take control of your weight loss journey?
Start with a free BMI check, explore your GLP-1 options, or begin tracking your progress today. No sign-up. No cost. Just results.