Weight loss injections have revolutionised obesity treatment in Ireland, offering clinically proven results for those who have struggled with traditional diet and exercise approaches. GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy, Saxenda, and the newer Mounjaro are now available through Irish GPs and private clinics, helping thousands of people achieve significant, sustainable weight loss.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about weight loss injections in Ireland, from how they work and their costs to eligibility criteria and expected results.
What Are GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are a class of injectable medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes management. Researchers discovered that these medications also produce significant weight loss effects, leading to their approval for obesity treatment.
These medications work by mimicking a natural hormone called GLP-1 that your body produces after eating. When you inject a GLP-1 medication, it:
- Reduces appetite by acting on hunger centres in the brain
- Slows gastric emptying, making you feel fuller for longer
- Improves blood sugar control by enhancing insulin secretion
- Reduces cravings for high-calorie foods
The result is that patients naturally eat less without the constant hunger and cravings that often derail traditional diets.
Weight Loss Injections Available in Ireland
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide 2.4mg, manufactured by Novo Nordisk. It received European Medicines Agency (EMA) approval for weight management in 2022 and is now available in Ireland through prescription.
How It Works:
Wegovy is a once-weekly injection that mimics the GLP-1 hormone. The higher dose (compared to its diabetes counterpart Ozempic) is specifically optimised for weight loss rather than blood sugar control.
Dosing Schedule:
Wegovy uses a gradual dose escalation over 16-20 weeks to minimise side effects:
- Month 1: 0.25mg once weekly
- Month 2: 0.5mg once weekly
- Month 3: 1.0mg once weekly
- Month 4: 1.7mg once weekly
- Month 5 onwards: 2.4mg once weekly (maintenance dose)
Cost in Ireland:
Wegovy costs approximately EUR 280-350 per month at the maintenance dose. Initial months may be slightly cheaper due to lower doses. The medication is not covered by the medical card or most private health insurance plans.
Clinical Results:
In the STEP clinical trials, participants taking Wegovy achieved:
- Average weight loss of 15-17% of body weight over 68 weeks
- Nearly one-third of participants lost more than 20% of their body weight
- Significant improvements in cardiovascular risk factors
Saxenda (Liraglutide)
Saxenda is manufactured by Novo Nordisk and was the first GLP-1 medication approved specifically for weight management in Ireland. It contains liraglutide, which requires daily injections.
How It Works:
Like Wegovy, Saxenda activates GLP-1 receptors to reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying. However, because liraglutide has a shorter half-life than semaglutide, it requires daily rather than weekly administration.
Dosing Schedule:
Saxenda also uses gradual dose escalation over 4-5 weeks:
- Week 1: 0.6mg once daily
- Week 2: 1.2mg once daily
- Week 3: 1.8mg once daily
- Week 4: 2.4mg once daily
- Week 5 onwards: 3.0mg once daily (maintenance dose)
Cost in Ireland:
Saxenda costs approximately EUR 250-300 per month at the maintenance dose. Like Wegovy, it is generally not covered by the medical card.
Clinical Results:
In the SCALE clinical trials, participants taking Saxenda achieved:
- Average weight loss of 8-10% of body weight over 56 weeks
- 63% of participants lost at least 5% of their body weight
- Improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
Mounjaro is the newest weight loss injection available in Ireland, manufactured by Eli Lilly. It received EMA approval for type 2 diabetes in 2022, with weight management approval (branded as Zepbound in the US) following in 2023-2024.
How It Works:
Mounjaro is unique because it is a dual-action medication that activates both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. This dual mechanism appears to produce even greater weight loss than GLP-1-only medications.
Dosing Schedule:
Mounjaro is a once-weekly injection with the following escalation:
- Weeks 1-4: 2.5mg once weekly
- Weeks 5-8: 5mg once weekly
- Weeks 9-12: 7.5mg once weekly
- Weeks 13-16: 10mg once weekly
- Week 17 onwards: 12.5mg or 15mg once weekly (based on response)
Cost in Ireland:
Mounjaro costs approximately EUR 300-400 per month depending on the dose. It is currently available primarily through diabetes prescriptions, though private clinics are beginning to prescribe it for weight management.
Clinical Results:
In the SURMOUNT clinical trials, tirzepatide achieved remarkable results:
- Average weight loss of 20-25% of body weight at the highest dose
- Over 50% of participants lost more than 20% of their body weight
- Superior results compared to semaglutide in head-to-head studies
Comparison: Wegovy vs Saxenda vs Mounjaro
How GLP-1 Medications Work: The Science Explained
Understanding how these medications work can help you make an informed decision and set realistic expectations.
The Role of GLP-1 in Your Body
GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone released by your intestines after eating. In healthy individuals, GLP-1:
- Signals satiety to the brain: GLP-1 travels to the hypothalamus, telling your brain you have eaten enough
- Slows stomach emptying: Food stays in your stomach longer, extending feelings of fullness
- Stimulates insulin release: Helps control blood sugar after meals
- Suppresses glucagon: Reduces the release of glucose from your liver
Why GLP-1 Medications Work for Weight Loss
When you inject a GLP-1 medication, you are providing your body with a much higher, more sustained level of GLP-1 activity than what naturally occurs. This amplified signal:
- Creates a powerful sense of fullness, even with smaller portions
- Reduces "food noise" (constant thoughts about food)
- Decreases cravings for high-calorie, highly palatable foods
- Improves metabolic function
The GIP Factor (Mounjaro Only)
Mounjaro's additional GIP activity enhances weight loss through mechanisms that are still being studied. GIP appears to:
- Further reduce appetite through different brain pathways
- Improve fat metabolism
- Enhance the effects of GLP-1
This dual action may explain why Mounjaro produces greater weight loss than GLP-1-only medications.
Who Is Eligible for Weight Loss Injections in Ireland?
Weight loss injections are prescription-only medications in Ireland. To be eligible, you typically need to meet specific criteria.
BMI Requirements
Standard eligibility:
- BMI of 30 or above (classified as obese), OR
- BMI of 27 or above with at least one weight-related health condition
Weight-Related Health Conditions
If your BMI is between 27-30, you may qualify if you have:
- Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol (dyslipidaemia)
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Cardiovascular disease
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Osteoarthritis related to weight
Who Should NOT Take Weight Loss Injections
These medications are not suitable for everyone. Contraindications include:
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
- History of pancreatitis
- Pregnancy or planning pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Severe gastrointestinal disease
- History of eating disorders (relative contraindication)
Your doctor will conduct a thorough medical assessment before prescribing.
How to Get Weight Loss Injections in Ireland
There are several pathways to access weight loss injections in Ireland.
1. Through Your GP
Many Irish GPs now prescribe weight loss injections. The process typically involves:
- Initial consultation: Discuss your weight history, medical conditions, and treatment goals
- Health assessment: Blood pressure, BMI calculation, blood tests (if needed)
- Prescription: If eligible, your GP prescribes the medication
- Follow-up: Regular appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment
Pros: Continuity of care, access to your full medical history, potentially lower consultation costs
Cons: Some GPs may not be familiar with these medications, limited appointment availability
2. Online Doctor Services
[Online consultations](/consultations) through services like GetYourGP offer a convenient way to access weight loss treatment. The process includes:
- Complete a detailed health questionnaire
- Video consultation with an Irish-registered GP
- Prescription sent to your pharmacy (if approved)
- Ongoing monitoring through follow-up consultations
Pros: Convenient, same-day appointments available, no travel required
Cons: Physical examination limitations (though BMI and blood pressure can often be self-measured)
3. Private Weight Loss Clinics
Specialist weight loss clinics in Dublin, Cork, Galway, and other cities offer comprehensive programmes including:
- Detailed metabolic assessments
- Body composition analysis
- Dietitian consultations
- Psychological support
- Ongoing medication management
Pros: Specialised expertise, comprehensive support, multidisciplinary approach
Cons: Higher costs (often EUR 200-400 for initial assessment plus medication costs)
Cost Breakdown: What You Will Actually Pay
Understanding the full cost of weight loss injection treatment helps you budget appropriately.
Medication Costs (Monthly)
Consultation Costs
Total First-Year Cost Estimate
For a typical patient on Wegovy:
- Medication: EUR 3,360-4,200 per year
- Consultations: EUR 200-400 per year (4-6 appointments)
- Total: Approximately EUR 3,500-4,600 per year
Is It Covered by Medical Card or Insurance?
Medical Card:
Weight loss injections are generally not covered by the GMS (medical card) scheme when prescribed for weight loss. They may be covered if prescribed for type 2 diabetes (in which case Ozempic or Trulicity are typically used instead of Wegovy).
Private Health Insurance:
Most Irish health insurers do not cover weight loss medications. However, some policies may cover:
- GP consultations for weight management
- Dietitian consultations
- Hospital-based weight management programmes
Always check your policy documents or contact your insurer directly.
Ways to Reduce Costs
- Prescription pricing: Prices vary between pharmacies. Shop around or use price comparison tools
- Online pharmacies: Some online pharmacies offer competitive pricing
- Patient support programmes: Manufacturers occasionally offer savings programmes
- Generic alternatives: Not yet available for these medications, but may emerge in future years
Side Effects: What to Expect
Like all medications, GLP-1 weight loss injections can cause side effects. Most are mild and improve over time.
Common Side Effects (Affect More Than 10% of Users)
Gastrointestinal effects are the most common:
- Nausea: Usually worst in the first few weeks, improves with time
- Vomiting: Can occur, especially if eating large portions
- Diarrhoea: Often mild and temporary
- Constipation: May occur in some patients
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
Tips to minimise GI side effects:
- Eat smaller portions
- Avoid fatty or greasy foods
- Eat slowly and stop when satisfied
- Stay hydrated
- Follow the gradual dose escalation schedule
Less Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Injection site reactions (redness, itching, swelling)
- Increased heart rate (usually mild)
Rare but Serious Side Effects
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain (may indicate pancreatitis)
- Signs of allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, severe rash, swelling)
- Gallbladder problems (pain in upper right abdomen, jaundice)
- Kidney problems (decreased urination, swelling in legs)
- Depression or suicidal thoughts (rare, but reported)
Long-Term Safety
GLP-1 medications have been used for diabetes management since 2005 (liraglutide) and 2017 (semaglutide), providing substantial long-term safety data. Ongoing studies continue to monitor for:
- Thyroid cancer risk (animal studies showed increased risk; human data is reassuring but monitoring continues)
- Cardiovascular outcomes (generally positive effects observed)
- Bone density changes
- Mental health effects
What Results Can You Expect?
Setting realistic expectations is crucial for long-term success.
Timeline of Results
Weeks 1-4:
- Side effects may be present as your body adjusts
- Some initial weight loss (often 2-4kg)
- Reduced appetite becomes noticeable
Months 1-3:
- Consistent weight loss of 1-2kg per week
- Side effects usually diminishing
- Energy levels may improve
- Blood pressure may begin to decrease
Months 3-6:
- Significant visible changes
- Typical weight loss of 8-12% of starting weight
- Improved blood sugar levels
- Better sleep quality
Months 6-12:
- Approaching maximum weight loss
- Average total weight loss: 15-20% (or more with Mounjaro)
- Substantial improvements in metabolic health markers
Beyond 12 Months:
- Weight maintenance phase
- Continued medication usually needed to maintain results
- Some patients may reduce dose
Real-World Expectations
Clinical trial results represent averages, and individual results vary. Factors affecting your results include:
- Starting weight: Those with more weight to lose often see greater absolute losses
- Diet quality: While appetite is reduced, food choices still matter
- Physical activity: Exercise enhances results and preserves muscle mass
- Medication adherence: Consistent weekly/daily injections are essential
- Individual biology: Some people respond more strongly than others
What Happens If You Stop?
Research shows that weight regain typically occurs when treatment is discontinued. This is because:
- The underlying biological drivers of obesity remain
- Appetite returns to previous levels
- Metabolic adaptations from weight loss persist
For this reason, many patients continue treatment long-term, though some may maintain results with lifestyle changes alone.
Weight Loss Injections vs Other Options
Compared to Diet and Exercise Alone
Traditional lifestyle approaches produce average weight loss of 3-5% of body weight. GLP-1 medications significantly exceed this, while also making dietary changes easier to sustain.
Compared to Orlistat (Alli/Xenical)
Orlistat works by blocking fat absorption, producing average weight loss of 3-4%. It is considerably less effective than GLP-1 medications and causes unpleasant fatty stool side effects.
Compared to Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery (gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy) produces weight loss of 25-35%, exceeding even Mounjaro. However, surgery involves:
- Surgical risks
- Permanent anatomical changes
- Vitamin deficiency risks
- Hospital stay and recovery time
GLP-1 medications offer a non-surgical alternative with similar (though slightly lower) results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need to take weight loss injections?
Most patients need ongoing treatment to maintain weight loss. Some may successfully transition to lifestyle-only maintenance, but this requires careful monitoring. Your doctor will help determine the best long-term approach for you.
Can I take these medications if I do not have much weight to lose?
These medications are approved for people with BMI of 30 or above, or BMI of 27 or above with weight-related conditions. Using them purely for cosmetic weight loss in people with healthy BMI is not recommended and may not be prescribed.
Will I regain weight if I stop the injections?
Studies show most people regain weight within 1-2 years of stopping treatment. This does not mean the treatment "failed" - it reflects the chronic nature of obesity, similar to how blood pressure returns when stopping antihypertensive medication.
Can I drink alcohol while taking weight loss injections?
Moderate alcohol consumption is generally acceptable, but be aware that:
- Alcohol tolerance may be reduced
- Alcohol adds empty calories that can slow progress
- Alcohol combined with reduced food intake may cause hypoglycaemia
Do I still need to diet and exercise?
Yes. While these medications significantly reduce appetite, maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity enhances results and overall health. Exercise is particularly important for preserving muscle mass during weight loss.
Are weight loss injections safe long-term?
Current evidence supports long-term use, with semaglutide and liraglutide having over a decade of safety data from diabetes use. However, as with any chronic medication, ongoing monitoring is important.
Can men take these medications?
Absolutely. While obesity affects both genders, men are sometimes less likely to seek treatment. GLP-1 medications are equally effective for men, with similar eligibility criteria applying.
What if the medication does not work for me?
Approximately 10-15% of patients are "non-responders" who do not achieve meaningful weight loss. If one medication is not effective, your doctor may recommend:
- Ensuring adherence and proper injection technique
- Trying a different GLP-1 medication
- Exploring other treatment options
Can I use these medications alongside other weight loss treatments?
Combining GLP-1 medications with other approaches should only be done under medical supervision. Some combinations (like with other diabetes medications) require careful monitoring to prevent hypoglycaemia.
How do I store the medication?
All GLP-1 medications require refrigeration (2-8 degrees Celsius) before first use. After starting a pen:
- Wegovy: Can be stored at room temperature (up to 28 days) or refrigerated
- Saxenda: Can be stored at room temperature (up to 30 days) or refrigerated
- Mounjaro: Can be stored at room temperature (up to 21 days) or refrigerated
Never freeze these medications.
Is there a weight loss injection that works fastest?
All GLP-1 medications work within the first few weeks, but Mounjaro tends to produce the most rapid and substantial weight loss due to its dual GIP/GLP-1 mechanism. However, the "best" medication depends on your individual circumstances, medical history, and preferences.
Can I get weight loss injections if I am diabetic?
Yes, and in fact these medications can be particularly beneficial. Wegovy's sister medication Ozempic, Saxenda's sister Victoza, and Mounjaro are all approved for diabetes. Your doctor will advise on the best choice and may need to adjust other diabetes medications.
Are there any foods I should avoid?
While no foods are strictly prohibited, you may find that:
- Fatty or greasy foods worsen nausea
- Large portions cause discomfort
- High-sugar foods are less appealing naturally
Most patients find their food preferences shift toward lighter, healthier options.
How do I inject the medication?
All three medications come in pre-filled pen devices that are easy to use:
- Choose injection site: Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
- Clean the area: Use an alcohol swab
- Dial your dose: (for Saxenda) or attach a new needle (for Wegovy/Mounjaro)
- Insert the needle: At a 90-degree angle
- Inject the medication: Press the button and hold for 10 seconds
- Dispose safely: Use a sharps bin
Your pharmacist or GP can provide training on proper injection technique.
Getting Started: Your Next Steps
If you are considering weight loss injections, here is how to move forward:
1. Check Your Eligibility
Calculate your BMI and consider whether you have any weight-related health conditions. Use our [weight loss services page](/services/weight-loss) to learn more about eligibility criteria.
2. Gather Your Health Information
Before your consultation, prepare:
- Current weight and height
- List of current medications
- Medical history (especially diabetes, thyroid conditions, pancreatitis, kidney disease)
- Previous weight loss attempts
- Family history of thyroid cancer or MEN2
3. Book a Consultation
Schedule an appointment with:
- Your regular GP
- An [online GP consultation](/consultations) with GetYourGP
- A specialist weight loss clinic
4. Discuss Your Options
During your consultation, discuss:
- Which medication is most suitable for you
- Expected timeline and results
- Side effect management
- Follow-up and monitoring schedule
- Costs and payment options
5. Begin Treatment
If prescribed, you will typically:
- Collect your medication from a pharmacy
- Receive training on self-injection technique
- Start at the lowest dose and gradually increase
- Schedule follow-up appointments
Conclusion
Weight loss injections represent a significant advancement in obesity treatment, offering Irish patients a medically supervised path to sustainable weight loss. Whether you choose Wegovy, Saxenda, or Mounjaro, these medications can help you achieve weight loss that was previously difficult or impossible through diet and exercise alone.
Remember that these medications work best as part of a comprehensive approach including healthy eating, regular physical activity, and ongoing medical support. They are not "miracle drugs" but rather powerful tools that make meaningful weight loss achievable for those who qualify.
If you are ready to explore whether weight loss injections are right for you, [book a consultation](/consultations) with one of our Irish-registered GPs today. We can assess your eligibility, discuss your options, and help you start your weight loss journey with proper medical supervision.
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*This article was reviewed by Dr. Fasi Ullah, a General Practitioner registered with the Irish Medical Council. The information provided is for educational purposes and should not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.*
*Last updated: January 2026*