JuniperHealth

Obesity

Obesity treatment and support

Treatment for obesity has changed a lot in recent years. Here is what the NHS offers, who can get it, and how to stay safe.

Written by Neil Hyde Last checked 2 minute read

On this page
  1. Weight management programmes
  2. Medicines
  3. Weight loss surgery
  4. Support for your mental health

Weight management programmes

These help you make lasting changes to what you eat and how active you are, with support along the way.

  • Local weight management services: your GP can refer you. Some councils also offer free programmes you can join yourself.
  • NHS Digital Weight Management Programme (England): a free 12 week online programme for adults living with obesity who also have diabetes or high blood pressure. Your GP or pharmacist can refer you.
  • Specialist weight management services: for people with severe obesity or complex needs. Teams may include doctors, dietitians and psychologists.

Medicines

Medicines can help alongside changes to eating and activity. They are not a quick fix, and weight often returns if they are stopped.

  • Orlistat stops some of the fat in food being absorbed.
  • Semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are weekly injections that make you feel full sooner. NICE has approved them for some adults, based on things like BMI and related health conditions. They are prescribed through specialist services and, increasingly, GP practices. Access is being rolled out in stages.

Common side effects include feeling sick, diarrhoea and constipation. These medicines are not suitable during pregnancy or when trying for a baby.

Weight loss surgery

Surgery, such as a gastric band or gastric bypass, may be offered if:

  • your BMI is 40 or more, or 35 or more with a condition that could improve with weight loss, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure
  • you have tried other ways of losing weight
  • you are fit for surgery and willing to follow up with long-term care

The BMI levels are lower for some ethnic groups and for people recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Surgery is a big step, and you will need lifelong check-ups and vitamin supplements.

Support for your mental health

Many people living with obesity also experience low mood, anxiety or disordered eating, and have faced stigma. Support for your mental health is part of good care. Ask your GP, or in England refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies.

Next, read about living well with obesity.

Common questions

Can I get weight loss injections on the NHS?

Some people can. Medicines such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are available on the NHS for people who meet set criteria, usually based on BMI and other health conditions. Access is being widened in stages, so ask your GP what is available in your area.

Is it safe to buy weight loss injections online?

Only buy from a registered UK pharmacy, and only after a proper consultation. Never buy from social media, beauty salons or websites that do not ask about your health. Fake and unsafe versions are common.

Sources we used

We check this page at least once a year, and sooner when the rules change. Read how we check our facts, or tell us if something looks wrong.