GLP-1 treatment and weight-loss injections

These medications mimic the action of a hormone that the body naturally releases after meals. This hormone is involved in regulating appetite, the feeling of fullness and blood glucose control. Some medications also slow down stomach emptying, helping to prolong the feeling of fullness.

Results can vary from person to person and depend on factors such as overall health, diet, level of physical activity, adherence to treatment and medical follow-up. No weight-loss medication offers guaranteed results on its own.

There are different injectable weight-loss medications, and not all of them contain the same active ingredient, have the same indications, or are suitable for everyone. The choice depends on an individual medical assessment that takes into account body mass index, medical history, associated conditions, usual medication, tolerance and the availability of the medication.

The frequency of administration, the recommended follow-up and the method of use can also vary. For this reason, weight-loss injections should be part of a treatment plan supervised by a doctor and accompanied by sustainable lifestyle changes.

Available options include injectable semaglutide and tirzepatide in Spain. Both active ingredients can be used in certain patients with overweight or obesity when there is a clinical indication, but they differ in their mechanism of action, authorised indications, follow-up schedule and safety profile.

For this reason, there is no single medication that is the best option for everyone. The choice will depend on medical history, associated conditions, response to treatment and the doctor’s judgement. Other alternatives may also be considered during the consultation if the professional believes a different therapeutic approach would be more suitable.

Many current treatments are given as once-weekly weight-loss injections, using pre-filled devices designed to make administering the medication easier. These weight-loss pens let you follow the schedule set by the doctor, although the frequency and dose can vary depending on the active ingredient and clinical progress.

The injectable weight-loss pen is simply the delivery system for the medication. Not everyone will use the same device or follow the same schedule. The dose or frequency of administration should never be changed, nor should one medication be swapped for another, without first consulting the professional responsible for your follow-up

Not everyone who wants to lose weight is a candidate for a weight-loss injection. The decision doesn’t depend solely on body weight or body mass index, but on the overall clinical factors the doctor reviews during the consultation.

The assessment includes personal history, associated conditions, previous weight-management treatments, usual medication, eating habits, level of physical activity and any possible contraindications.

In some cases, the doctor may consider it appropriate to start treatment. In others, they may recommend lifestyle changes, further tests or a different therapeutic strategy.

Weight-loss injections require a medical assessment before starting and appropriate follow-up during use. The most common side effects are digestive and include nausea, an early feeling of fullness, vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation, especially during the first few weeks. Tolerance can vary and should be assessed by the doctor.

Before recommending an injectable weight-loss medication, the professional will review your medical history, chronic conditions, allergies, current medication and other factors that could affect safety. It’s also important to mention if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as these situations may affect the clinical decision.

If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, signs of an allergic reaction or any other serious symptom, seek urgent medical attention.

The total cost usually consists of two parts: the medical consultation and the medication, which is dispensed separately at the pharmacy. The price of weight-loss injections can vary depending on the active ingredient, prescribed dose, presentation and availability at the pharmacy. The medical consultation and the medication are billed separately, and the cost of the medication is not included in the price of the consultation.

Regarding public coverage, weight-loss injections through Spain’s public health system (Seguridad Social) are subject to authorised indications and current regulations. In some cases, partial coverage may also be available through private insurance, depending on the terms of each insurer and policy.

Oladoctor makes it easy to access online medical consultations to assess different options when there is a clinical indication. During the video consultation you can discuss your medical history, the treatments you’re using, your goals related to weight management, and any questions you have about the available medications.

With Oladoctor you can:

• Choose the doctor and book the consultation online at the time that suits you.
• Have the consultation by video call from anywhere in Spain.
• Discuss your medical history, your goals and any treatments you’ve used previously.
• Receive medical recommendations tailored to your situation.
• Obtain an electronic prescription only when the doctor considers there is an indication.
• Know the cost of the consultation before booking, with no subscriptions or hidden fees.