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
Himalayan Pink Salt For Weight Loss — What You Need To Know
Himalayan pink salt is sometimes promoted online as a weight loss aid, but there is no scientific evidence that it helps with weight management. If you're looking for effective solutions for losing weight in the UK, prescription medications and lifestyle changes are proven to work. For adults eligible under NHS guidelines or through private prescription, GLP-1 weight loss injections offer evidence-based support when combined with diet and exercise. This guide explains what actually works for weight management and how to access proven treatments.
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-Approved Prescription Weight Loss Medications
If you're interested in weight management in the UK, prescription medications offer evidence-based support for eligible adults. Three GLP-1 and dual-mechanism medications are currently licensed:
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist injected once weekly. In clinical trials, participants lost an average of 15–21% of body weight, though individual results vary.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) — a GLP-1 receptor agonist injected once weekly. Clinical trials showed an average weight loss of around 15% body weight alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) — a GLP-1 injection given once daily, offering a daily injection alternative.
All are prescription-only and require a clinical assessment before being prescribed. Our free GLP-1 weight loss calculator can help you understand potential outcomes at different doses if you're considering these options.
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.
Eligibility And How To Access Weight Loss Treatment In The UK
To access prescription weight loss medication in the UK, you'll typically need to meet specific health criteria. You may be eligible if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27–29.9 with at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.
On the NHS: Referral to a specialist weight management service is required, though availability varies significantly by region and waiting times can be lengthy.
Privately: You can access prescription weight loss treatment through an online clinical assessment with a UK-licensed prescriber without an NHS referral.
Start by discussing your weight management goals with your GP, who can advise on NHS options or confirm whether you meet eligibility criteria. Use our free BMI calculator to check your current BMI as a starting point for that conversation.
- 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.
Does himalayan pink salt actually help with weight loss?
No. There is no scientific evidence that himalayan pink salt aids weight loss. While it contains trace minerals, salt does not reduce appetite or increase fat burning. Weight loss requires a calorie deficit and, for some people, prescribed medication alongside lifestyle changes.
What is the best weight loss medication available in the UK?
The best medication depends on your individual health, eligibility, and prescriber recommendation. Mounjaro and Wegovy are both evidence-based options licensed in the UK. Clinical trials show average weight losses of 15–21%, but results vary. Your GP or prescriber will assess which is most suitable for you.
How do I know if I'm eligible for prescription weight loss treatment in the UK?
You may be eligible if your BMI is 30 or above, or 27–29.9 with a weight-related health condition like diabetes or high blood pressure. Eligibility is assessed individually. Speak to your GP about NHS options, or consult a UK-licensed prescriber if considering private treatment.
What's the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy?
Both are once-weekly injections. Mounjaro is a dual GIP and GLP-1 agonist with average weight loss of 15–21% in trials. Wegovy is a GLP-1 agonist only, with average weight loss around 15%. Both require prescription and clinical assessment. Your prescriber will recommend based on your health profile.
Can I get weight loss injections on the NHS in the UK?
Yes, but access is limited. NICE has approved tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and semaglutide (Wegovy) for NHS specialist weight management services. However, availability varies by region and waiting lists can be very long. Your GP can refer you to tier 3 services, or you can access these medications privately through an online prescription assessment.
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.