FAQs
General
How much does my medication cost?
The price of your programme starts at £195/month. Depending on your response to the medication and your preference, your clinician may adjust your dose, which can change the price.
What do GLP-1 and GIP stand for?
GLP-1: Glucagon-like Peptide 1
GIP: Glucose Dependent Insulinotropic Peptide
What are GLP-1 and GIP?
They are naturally occurring gut hormones that help us feel full and suppress our appetite.
What are GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist medications?
These medications mimic the effects of GLP-1 and GIP in the body to increase feelings of fullness and reduce hunger. They are used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity.
How do GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP medications work?
They reduce blood sugar, slow stomach emptying, and decrease appetite, which leads to lower calorie intake and weight loss over time.
What can GLP-1 and GIP medications be used for?
They support weight management for people with obesity and help improve blood sugar and weight in type 2 diabetes. They must be used alongside a healthy diet and increased physical activity.
Who can be prescribed a GLP-1 or combined GLP-1/GIP medication for weight loss?
Generally, individuals with a BMI of 30+ or BMI 27+ with at least one weight-related health condition may be eligible. Suitability is assessed by our in-house medical team on the Roczen Plus programme.
What are the common brand names?
- GLP-1: Wegovy, Ozempic, Saxenda, Victoza, Byetta, Trulicity
- GLP-1/GIP: Mounjaro, Zepbound
Which are licensed for obesity treatment?
- GLP-1: Liraglutide (Saxenda), Semaglutide (Wegovy)
- GLP-1/GIP: Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
These medications are self-injected at higher doses than for diabetes management.
How effective are GLP-1s and GLP-1/GIPs for weight loss?
Many individuals achieve over 15% body weight loss with GLP-1s and 20–25% with GLP-1/GIP (tirzepatide) within a year. Individual results vary.
How long before I see results?
Weight loss can start within the first few weeks to months. Discuss with your doctor if you feel progress is slow.
Are there dietary restrictions?
No specific restrictions, but a healthy diet is recommended as part of a lifestyle management programme.
Can people with kidney or liver disease use these medications?
Yes, generally for mild to moderate conditions. A clinician will assess suitability.
Side Effects
Are there side effects?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and headaches. They are usually mild and improve over time.
How are these medications administered?
They are injected under the skin using pre-filled pens or syringes. Roczen provides training to ensure you’re comfortable self-administering.
What should I do with used needles?
Use the provided sharps bin for safe disposal. Local pharmacies may accept the bin, or we can arrange home collection.
Are there contraindications?
GLP-1s or GLP-1/GIPs should not be used in individuals with:
- History/current pancreatitis
- Personal/family history of MEN2 or MTC
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Can these medications cause low blood sugar?
Alone, they rarely cause hypoglycemia. Risk increases if combined with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas.
Are they safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No, due to limited safety data.
Are there signs I should watch for that require medical attention?
Seek urgent medical attention for:
- Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)
- Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting (possible pancreatitis)
Taking the Medication
When should I take it?
Injectable GLP-1s and GLP-1/GIPs are usually taken once weekly, on the same day and at roughly the same time, regardless of meals.
What if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next dose. Then skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule.
Will my dose need adjustment?
Yes, usually started low and gradually increased. Your maintenance dose is based on your individual response.
Are there precautions when travelling?
Store the medication properly, ideally in a cooler. Ensure sufficient supply and check international regulations if travelling abroad.
Licensing & Off-Label Use
What does “off-licence” mean?
It refers to using a medication for a condition not specified in the manufacturer’s product licence.
How does a medication become licensed?
Pharmaceutical companies submit safety and efficacy evidence to regulatory agencies (MHRA/EMA). The licence specifies doses, side effects, and approved conditions.
Why is this relevant to GLP-1/GLP-1/GIP medications?
Initially licensed for type 2 diabetes, later studies showed they are safe and effective for weight management.
Is off-licence use safe?
Yes, with comprehensive clinical assessment to ensure suitability and safety.
Ready to start your journey?
Take the first step towards achieving your weight loss goals with expert medical guidance.