Why Am I Being Shamed For Taking GLP-1 Medication?

GLP-1 stigma is real. From celebrities insisting their weight loss is due to virtuous smoothies to the “I’m on it but don’t tell anyone!” Whatsapps and DMs we received from friends, family and community when we announced the new weight management programme at HANX, these pioneering medications are shrouded in secrecy… and we reckon it’s time to banish the stigma.

Maintaining a healthy-for-you weight puts you all in a good position to avoid complications and live the lives you want, from being able to run around after the kids, take on a half marathon, manage PCOS symptoms or plan for pregnancy. So, if GLP-1 medication such as  Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) can help, why is openly stating that you’re using it so taboo? Let’s unpick some of the reasons why there is so much shame around these groundbreaking GLP-1 medications…

“Taking GLP-1 medication is lazy.”

Ill-informed opinions like this just bolster the idea that taking semaglutide meds is compensating for weakness or lack of discipline. Those espousing this plain wrong ‘hot take’ often believe that taking medication to support weight loss is a result of failing to manage one's health through lifestyle changes alone. However, for some people, cardio and counting calories alone aren’t enough to reach or maintain a healthy weight, with constant food noise being a key issue for some. Women in particular can find it harder to reach and maintain a healthy weight, especially in menopause or when navigating conditions such as PCOS.

Those of us who have been there will attest how demotivating it is to be doing all the ‘right’ things and not seeing any tangible progress! Taking GLP-1 medication, which has been prescribed for you, isn’t cheating. Reminder: it doesn’t take away from any achievements you make on your weight management journey, either.

It’s also really important to recognise that managing your weight with GLP-1 medication crucially still requires will power. Wegovy and Mounarjo aren’t a silver bullet, a quick fix, magic solution or any other mystical metaphor you might conjure up. These medications are designed to be taken consistently, for the long term, alongside a calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity, and will be less effective if you skip these elements.

Misconceptions about GLP-1 medication

You might have seen headlines in the press, or heard rumbles on social media, that users of GLP-1 medication are ‘stealing’ it from diabetics. Currently, Wegovy (a brand name for semaglutide) isn’t licensed for diabetes treatment in the UK, only for managing excess weight and obesity.

Whilst there is high demand for this medication, the healthcare system aims to meet the needs of all patients, whether you have diabetes or obesity (or both). With ongoing efforts from manufacturers to increase supply and new GLP-1 drugs in the pipeline, both groups should be able to access the medications they need. Learn more here.

Another argument patients may hear is that “you’ll have to come off it eventually!”. This medication is designed to support those who want to reach and maintain a healthy weight for the long-term - and actively not recommended for the short term. Unless a GP or healthcare provider deems the treatment unsuitable to continue taking, some people may indeed take this medication for a long time or even life. It's worth considering that for those who are pursuing a healthier lifestyle, regular exercise and calorie-controlled diet are long term behavioural changes, too.

Many people are living with chronic conditions - and obesity is one of these. In the UK, 1 in 4 adults are estimated to be living with obesity, which reportedly costs the NHS around 6.5 billion pounds each year. Obesity can lead to many serious conditions including kidney disease, gallstones cancer, joint problems, heart issues, mental health issues and more. Frankly, it’s time to ditch moral judgements about other people’s personal healthcare choices and focus on proactive healthcare to avoid these dangerous conditions.

It’s for the elite

Furthermore, there is a misconception that GLP-1 medication is only for the elite, given that celebrities like Oprah, Kelly Clarkson and Amy Schumer have publicly spoken about their use of this medication.

However, it is available on the NHS in certain cases here in the UK. Let’s hone in on cost for a second for those who are in a position to access it from digital pharmacies. Whilst there are certainly cheaper options out there for people who are looking for support with their weight loss journey, there are few that are as effective. For instance, when combined with lifestyle changes, 96% of people can expect to lose at least 5% of their body weight when using Mounjaro. Yes, GLP-1 medication is expensive but it is safe, effective, backed by science and when used alongside diet and exercise, can support long-term results.

To those public figures who have spoken openly about their use of Wegovy, Mounjaro or other GLP-1 medications: good for you. When the world of celebrity is shrouded in smoke and mirrors (or Photoshop and filters), it’s both refreshing and important to have a clear picture of what reaching and maintaining a healthy weight entails. No ‘miraculous’ juice cleanse rubbish - if you’re working out, eating a balanced diet and supporting your progress with Wegovy or Mounjaro, let’s hear it loud and proud. 

These medications are an extreme solution

Finally, you might have seen recent reports in the UK of severe reactions from those who purchased unlicensed, unregulated GLP-1 medication, without a prescription, from social media, or in beauty salons. This medication isn’t suitable for everyone, which is why healthcare providers, and digital pharmacies, have stringent regulations to determine which patients this is suitable for, including healthcare consultations to check for conditions which would exclude you from use. Additionally, whilst some do experience side effects when taking GLP-1 medication, these tend to be mild and self-manageable at home. 

It’s really important we speak openly about GLP-1 and the dangers of unlicensed routes, so that those who wish to explore it as part of their health journey go to a healthcare provider or regulated weight management programme. The fully licensed programme at HANX includes an initial health consultation which is reviewed by a prescribing pharmacist, who evaluates your eligibility to start the programme, and if suitable, continue on an ongoing basis, with monthly check-ins.

The more we destigmatise open conversation about GLP-1 medication, the more we can ensure those who are eligible and would really benefit from it, are able to access safely, regulated medication to support on their journey.

Want more?

• How does pricing on the the weight management programme at HANX work? Learn more and start your consultation today.
• Let’s get real about potential side effects of weight management medication. Read on.
• Wegovy versus Mounjaro: everything you need to know about weight management medication.