Losing weight can feel like a long journey, but weight loss medication can help make the process a lot smoother. Especially if you’re someone who has struggled to lose weight by yourself or with diet alone.

With medications like Saxenda, Wegovy, and Mounjaro now available, many of our patients are finding it easier to manage weight loss in a way that’s steady, sustainable, and suited to their lifestyle. If you’re considering these medications, here’s what to expect—from gradual weight changes to small shifts in daily routines.

You can expect gradual weight loss

One of the first things to understand about weight loss medications like Saxenda, Wegovy, and Mounjaro is that they’re designed to promote gradual weight loss. You won’t see a dramatic drop overnight, and that’s intentional! Slow and steady weight loss is good weight loss because it’s generally healthier and more sustainable in the long run. By giving your body time to adjust, gradual weight loss reduces the likelihood of feeling deprived and lowers the risk of putting all the weight back on when you stop taking the medication.

Over the first few weeks, some people may lose a noticeable amount of weight, but for others, the initial phase might involve smaller, incremental changes. As with regular weight loss, everyone is different and it’s important to be patient with yourself and your results.

Each medication has its own timeline: Mounjaro, for example, has been shown to result in consistent weekly weight loss, while Wegovy’s effects tend to be more gradual but build up over time. You may notice differences in your body composition, energy levels, and even mood as your weight begins to shift, and check-ins with your weight and overall measurements will help keep you on track.

You’ll set a routine with your medication

Taking the weight loss medication consistently is key for getting the best results. Building this habit might take some adjustment, but with time, it will become just another part of your day.

Wegovy and Saxenda, for instance, are both injectable medications taken once a week, which makes them relatively low-maintenance compared to daily options. Mounjaro follows a similar weekly injection schedule, which is convenient for people with busy lives.

To make it easier to stick with your routine, try setting up reminders on your phone or pairing medication time with a regular activity you already do, like a weekend breakfast. By making it a part of your weekly schedule, taking the medication becomes second nature and helps you not miss doses.

You should experiment with different foods

Weight loss medication doesn’t replace the need for healthy eating, but it can make adopting new habits easier. Since these medications help to curb appetite, you may find yourself naturally drawn to smaller portions or even a lighter meal. Use this as an opportunity to explore a more balanced diet by incorporating healthier food choices.

Another way to ease yourself into better eating habits is through small diet swaps. For instance, if you usually enjoy a bowl of ice cream after dinner, you could try switching to Greek yoghurt topped with fresh berries. Craving something savoury? Swap crisps for a handful of nuts or veggie sticks with hummus. Over time, these small adjustments can make a significant impact, both in terms of calories and the nutritional value of what you eat.

Many people also find it helpful to plan meals around filling, fibre-rich foods, like vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. By filling up on these foods, you’re more likely to feel satisfied without overeating. For inspiration and to get started we recommend looking through recipe books and websites that include the calorie and nutrition information to build a meal plan around your goals. The BBC Good Food website is a great place to start thanks to it’s range of low calories options, and you can even find recipes based on their dietary considerations like gluten free or vegan.

You’ll become aware of your body’s signals

A side effect of medications like Mounjaro, Saxenda, and Wegovy is that they can make you more in tune with hunger and fullness cues. People often report feeling satisfied with less food or not craving snacks as frequently. As a result, you might find that you start to naturally prefer lighter meals! This change can be a bit of an adjustment, especially if you’re used to large portion sizes.

Take time to listen to these new signals from your body. Try to eat when you’re genuinely hungry, and stop when you feel satisfied rather than completely full. This simple shift can have a profound impact on how you view food and, ultimately, on your relationship with eating. It can also help start to break habits of bing eating, eating when bored or emotional eating. Many people find that this is one of the most rewarding parts of being on weight loss medication—it’s not just about weight loss, but about learning new, healthy eating habits that last.

Potential side effects to look out for

As with any medication, there can be some side effects. For weight loss medications like Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda, these effects are often mild and tend to ease as your body gets used to the medication. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, and constipation. These usually occur in the early stages as your body adjusts, and many people find they fade over time.

If you do experience side effects, simple strategies can often help manage them. For example, eating smaller meals or choosing low-fat foods can reduce nausea. Staying hydrated also helps, especially if you’re experiencing digestive issues. If side effects persist or become severe, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. When you’re first starting the medication its important to keep a log of any symptoms you experience and share them with your provider at your check in.

To see results, stay consistent

Weight loss is a marathon not a spring. Even with medication it’s a gradual process, and it’s normal to have ups and downs along the way. Remember that consistency is key with any weight loss plan. By following the dosing instructions, making small, manageable changes to your diet, and staying active, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success, even when you no longer need the medication.

Weight loss medication can be an incredible tool, but it works best when it’s part of a well-rounded approach that includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and a focus on overall wellness. Remember, every little change adds up, and each small change you make to your diet and lifestyle brings you closer to your goal.

Whether you’re just getting started with weight loss medication or you’re a few weeks in, remember that weight loss is best taken step by step. With these medications by your side, and a little effort, you’re well on your way to reaching a healthier, happier you.

Ready to find out more about weight loss medication? Book your free assessment with Pharmaease now.