Oral Weight Loss

Obesity is usually caused by eating more calories than the body burns through daily activity and exercise, but the reasons are often more complex than diet alone. Genetics, hormone levels, lifestyle, stress, sleep patterns, and medical conditions can all play a role. Modern environments, with easy access to high-calorie foods and less daily physical activity, also make it more likely.

Obesity itself does not always cause obvious symptoms, but it can affect everyday life by reducing energy, limiting mobility, and increasing joint pain or breathlessness. Over time, it raises the risk of serious health problems including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, fatty liver disease, and some cancers. It can also impact mental wellbeing, leading to low confidence or depression.

You should seek medical advice urgently if you have obesity with chest pain, sudden breathlessness, or symptoms such as severe abdominal pain or vomiting blood, as these may suggest other medical emergencies.

The first steps in managing obesity usually involve lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, improving sleep, and reducing alcohol intake. Behavioural support, weight management programmes, and psychological therapies can also make a difference.

Medicines are sometimes used when lifestyle changes alone are not enough. Orlistat works by reducing the amount of fat absorbed from food. Wegovy and Mounjaro are newer injectable treatments that affect appetite and the way the body regulates blood sugar and weight. These medicines are used alongside diet and lifestyle changes to support weight loss and improve long-term health.

Our service offers treatment with orlistat, Wegovy, and Mounjaro for adults with obesity who meet prescribing criteria. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine. If you develop severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, signs of an allergic reaction, or if you feel very unwell after starting treatment, you should seek urgent medical help through NHS 111, your GP, or A&E.