Guidance

GLP-1 medicines for weight loss and diabetes: what you need to know

Guidance on the safe and effective use of GLP-1 medicines for weight loss and diabetes.

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Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s or GLP-1RAs) are medicines that help people feel fuller by mimicking a natural hormone released after eating. Some newer medicines, like Mounjaro, also act on a second hormone involved in appetite and blood sugar control. You may see them referred to in the media as 鈥渨eight loss injections鈥� or 鈥渟kinny jabs鈥� but not all of these medicines are authorised for weight loss.

Updates to this page

Published 5 June 2025
Last updated 12 June 2025 show all updates
  1. Added guidelines on avoiding pregnancy, contraceptive use, side effects, surgery, and proper syringe disposal. Clarified GLP-1 medicines are not for quick weight loss and unassessed by MHRA for non-medical use.

  2. First published.

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