What Are Weight Loss Injections?

Weight loss injections are actually drugs developed for the treatment of diabetes, with their clinical use approved worldwide. However, the effect of these drugs is not the same in everyone. Even between two people receiving the same dose of treatment, the rate of weight loss and the side effects experienced may differ. Initially used to control blood sugar in diabetic patients, these drugs have gained significant attention in recent years for their weight loss effects and have become a topic of discussion in obesity treatment. This is why they have caused such a stir in both the medical world and society in recent times.

How Do Weight Loss Injections Work?

Weight loss injections are actually an important group of medical treatments used in diabetes treatment. Their mechanism of action is multifaceted. First, they stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas to control blood sugar levels. In addition, they slow down stomach emptying to prolong the feeling of fullness, suppress appetite, and affect the appetite center in the brain to help the person consume less food.
These effects lead to weight loss. However, the results are not the same for everyone. Even between two people receiving the same dose of treatment, there can be significant differences in the rate of weight loss and side effects. Therefore, weight loss injections should not be seen as a “miracle solution” on their own; they can be beneficial when considered alongside lifestyle changes and healthy eating habits.
Recently, weight loss injections have been frequently discussed on social media and in magazines. The number of people turning to these drugs, especially due to the influence of celebrities, is rapidly increasing. However, it should not be forgotten that this situation carries serious risks.
When using weight loss injections:

They slow down gastric emptying.
They suppress the appetite center in the brain.
They increase insulin secretion in the pancreas and decrease glucagon.
They reduce the feeling of hunger and prolong the feeling of fullness.

Yes, they can lead to weight loss in a short period of time. However, behind these seemingly miraculous results lie doctor supervision, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, and regular physical activity. In other words, the injection alone is not a magic solution.

Can Weight Loss Injections Be Purchased Without a Prescription?

Obtaining them without a prescription and outside of a doctor's supervision can lead to counterfeit products being released onto the market and an increase in people experiencing health problems due to side effects. Therefore, I would like to emphasize that weight loss injections should only be used under a doctor's supervision, with the correct indication, and with a prescription. Otherwise, turning to these drugs because of what celebrities share can put both health and life at risk. It should not be forgotten that these drugs are actually approved treatments developed for diabetic patients.

Are Weight Loss Injections Suitable For Everyone?

Weight loss injections are not suitable for everyone and must be used under medical supervision. Even among diabetic patients, not everyone may benefit from this treatment. The dosage and duration of use are determined based on the patient's age, weight, current health status, other diseases, and medications they are taking.
The use of these drugs can be risky, especially in adolescents, pregnant women, and those with kidney or liver problems. In addition, the drugs should not be used for cosmetic purposes and obtained without a prescription; counterfeit or incorrectly formulated drugs can cause serious health problems.
Weight loss injections are not a miracle solution on their own. For permanent weight loss, they must always be supported by healthy eating, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes. The doctor will initiate treatment and monitor the process after evaluating these factors.

What are the Harms of Weight Loss Injections?

During the use of weight loss drugs, severe constipation, nausea, and serious drug-related allergic reactions may occur. Patients diagnosed with medullary thyroid cancer should not use this drug. There is no approval for use during pregnancy. The possible side effects that may develop with long-term use of the drugs or off-label use are uncertain.

What Happens When You Stop Taking Weight Loss Injections?

When you stop taking the drug and return to your old eating habits, it is possible to regain the weight you lost. This is because these drugs not only help you lose weight but also help change your eating habits. GLP-1 works by slowing stomach emptying, suppressing the appetite center in the brain, increasing insulin release in the pancreas, and reducing feelings of hunger. When weight loss injections are discontinued, the results achieved will not be permanent unless a lasting behavioral change has been achieved.

Can All Diabetic Patients Use Weight Loss Injections?

They are not suitable for use by all diabetic patients. Their use is not recommended, especially in the treatment of patients diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Similarly, they are not used during pregnancy and breastfeeding or in individuals under the age of 18.

Where does weight loss occur in the body?

Weight loss injections reduce the body's overall fat mass. However, everyone's fat storage structure is different. Therefore, we can say that weight loss is usually most noticeable in areas where fat is concentrated (such as the abdomen, waist, and hips). But this regional change varies depending on the person's genetic makeup.
When a person loses weight quickly, not only does the fat in the body decrease, but the fat tissue in the face also decreases.
This can lead to:

Prominent cheekbones,
Sunken cheeks,
Hollows under the eyes,
Sagging skin,
An older and more tired appearance.

The Dangers of Rapid Weight Loss

Although quick results are appealing, sudden weight loss can lead to muscle loss, gallstone formation, a slowdown in metabolism, and nutritional deficiencies. In addition, these injections have many side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and pancreatitis.

In conclusion, weight loss injections can be beneficial when used consciously and under a doctor's supervision. However, as with any method, sustainable lifestyle changes are essential. Quick fixes can lead to new problems (caused by side effects) in the long run.

This content was prepared by Yeditepe University Hospitals Medical Editorial Board.

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