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
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Type 2 Diabetes Shots — What You Need to Know
Type 2 diabetes shots, also called GLP-1 injections, are prescription-only medications that help manage blood sugar levels and support weight loss. In the UK, these injections mimic a natural hormone your body produces after eating. They may help reduce appetite, improve blood sugar control, and lower the risk of serious diabetes complications. If you have type 2 diabetes or are at risk, your GP can assess whether this treatment might be suitable for you alongside lifestyle changes and other diabetes management strategies.
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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.
How GLP-1 Injections Work for Diabetes
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone your gut naturally produces when you eat. GLP-1 receptor agonist injections mimic this hormone's actions to help manage type 2 diabetes in several ways.
- Blood sugar control: They stimulate your pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar rises, helping keep levels stable.
- Appetite reduction: They signal to your brain that you're full, which may reduce cravings and calorie intake.
- Slower digestion: They slow how quickly food moves through your stomach, helping prevent sharp blood sugar spikes.
- Cardiovascular protection: Some GLP-1 medications have been shown in trials to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with type 2 diabetes.
These injections are given once weekly (for some medications) or daily, depending on the specific medication your GP prescribes. Results typically appear after several weeks of consistent use.
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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.
GLP-1 Medications Available in the UK
Several GLP-1 medications are licensed in the UK for type 2 diabetes management. Ozempic (semaglutide) is one of the most commonly prescribed, approved by MHRA for blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It's given as a once-weekly injection.
Important: Ozempic is not licensed for weight loss in the UK—it's a diabetes treatment. A related medication called Wegovy (also semaglutide but at a higher dose) is licensed specifically for weight management and may be prescribed if weight is a clinical concern alongside diabetes.
Your GP can assess which medication fits your NHS guidance needs, health history, and goals. Access through the NHS depends on your local integrated care board, though private prescribing options are also available following an online clinical assessment.
- 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.
Can type 2 diabetes shots help you lose weight?
Yes, GLP-1 injections may support weight loss as a side effect. Clinical evidence shows people using these medications often lose weight alongside improved blood sugar control. However, weight loss is not assured and varies by individual. They work best alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Your GP can discuss whether weight loss is a realistic goal for you.
Are type 2 diabetes injections available on the NHS?
Yes, GLP-1 medications for type 2 diabetes are available on the NHS. Your GP can prescribe them if you meet clinical criteria. However, availability and waiting times vary by region and local health services. Private prescribing through UK-licensed prescribers is also an option if NHS access is limited in your area.
What's the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?
Both contain semaglutide but serve different purposes. Ozempic (up to 2mg) is licensed for type 2 diabetes management. Wegovy (up to 2.4mg) is licensed specifically for weight management. Using Ozempic for weight loss only is off-label. Your GP will prescribe the medication appropriate for your clinical needs.
How quickly do type 2 diabetes shots start working?
Most people notice improved blood sugar control within 2–4 weeks, though full effects develop over 8–12 weeks as doses are gradually increased. Weight loss, if it occurs, typically becomes noticeable after 4–6 weeks. Individual timelines vary. Regular monitoring by your GP helps track progress and adjust treatment if needed.
What side effects might type 2 diabetes injections cause?
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, and reduced appetite. Most subside within weeks as your body adjusts. Serious side effects are rare but can include pancreatitis (severe stomach pain) or gallbladder issues. Always report persistent symptoms to your GP. Your prescriber will discuss individual risks during your clinical 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.