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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Weight Loss Hypnosis: Understanding Real Weight Management Options in the UK
While weight loss hypnosis is sometimes promoted as a weight management solution, evidence-based prescription medications are now available in the UK for eligible adults. If you're exploring weight management options, it's worth understanding what prescription treatments the NHS and private healthcare can offer. These medications are backed by clinical trials and may provide more reliable support alongside lifestyle changes than unproven methods. Let's look at the actual weight management tools available to you through your GP or a licensed prescriber.
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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 Management Options
The UK has three prescription-only weight loss medications licensed specifically for weight management in adults:
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, once-weekly injection. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 15–21% of body weight at maximum dose.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) — a GLP-1 receptor agonist, once-weekly injection. Average weight loss of approximately 15% in clinical trials.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) — a GLP-1 receptor agonist, once-daily injection.
You are eligible if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease. Check your BMI instantly using our free BMI calculator to see if you may qualify. For South Asian, Chinese, Black African, or Black Caribbean adults, lower BMI thresholds apply. A prescriber will assess your individual suitability following a clinical consultation.
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.
NHS vs Private Access: Finding the Right Route for You
NHS access: Referral to a tier 3 specialist weight management service is required. Availability varies significantly by region, and waiting lists can be substantial. Your GP can advise whether your local integrated care board offers this service.
Private access: You can access prescription weight loss medication through GPhC-registered online prescribers without an NHS referral. A clinical assessment is still required to ensure the medication is safe for you. The GLP-1 weight loss calculator on this page can help you estimate potential outcomes at different doses. Whichever route you choose, prescription weight management works best alongside reduced-calorie diet, increased physical activity, and behavioural support.
- 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.
Is weight loss hypnosis proven to work?
Hypnosis for weight loss has limited scientific evidence. While some people report modest benefits, clinical trials show it is less effective than prescription medications or structured behavioural programmes. The NHS recommends evidence-based approaches like medication, dietary changes, and supervised exercise. Speak to your GP about proven options if you're serious about weight management.
What are the eligibility requirements for prescription weight loss medication in the UK?
You may be eligible for Mounjaro, Wegovy, or Saxenda if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions. Lower thresholds apply for certain ethnic groups. A prescriber will assess your medical history, current medications, and individual circumstances. Use our free BMI calculator to check your BMI first.
How long does prescription weight loss medication take to work?
Weight loss typically begins within the first 2–4 weeks, with most results occurring between weeks 4–12. Maximum benefit is usually seen at 16–20 weeks. Results vary individually. Medication works best when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Progress tracking helps you see results over time.
Can I get weight loss injections through the NHS?
Yes, NHS specialist weight management services (tier 3) can prescribe Mounjaro and Wegovy, though availability and waiting times vary by region. Your GP can refer you to your local service. Private prescribing offers faster access through online healthcare providers, with costs typically ranging from £129–£320 monthly depending on dose.
What should I ask my GP about weight management medication?
Ask whether you may be eligible for prescription weight loss treatment, what options are available in your area, and whether referral to a specialist service is possible. Bring your BMI (calculate it free using our tool above) and any relevant health conditions. Your GP can discuss which approach—NHS or private—suits your circumstances best.
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.