Weight loss injections like GLP-1 and GIP are taking the world by storm, and honestly, I get why everyone’s talking about them. You’ve probably seen the headlines. Your mate lost 20 pounds in three months. 

Your doctor’s waiting room is packed with people asking about these “miracle” shots.

But here’s the thing – before you jump on the bandwagon, you need the real story. I’m going to walk you through everything about GLP-1 and GIP for weight loss. No sugar-coating. No medical jargon that makes your eyes glaze over.

What Is GLP-1 and GIP?

Let me start with the basics. GLP-1 and GIP isn’t some trendy new diet pill cooked up in someone’s garage. 

Originally, scientists developed this drug for people with type 2 diabetes. The goal was simple: help control blood sugar levels. But something interesting happened during the trials.

People were losing weight. Serious weight. More than anyone expected. Now doctors are prescribing it off-label for weight loss (I’ll explain what that means later).

Think of it like this: they discovered a tool for one job, but it turned out to be brilliant at another job too.

How Does GLP-1 and GIP Work for Weight Loss?

This is where it gets interesting. GLP-1 and GIP is what we call a dual-action receptor agonist. It targets two hormones in your body: GLP-1 and GIP.

Here’s what happens when you inject it: 

• Slows down digestion – food stays in your stomach longer, so you feel full for ages.
• Reduces appetite – those constant food thoughts? They quiet down significantly.
• Improves insulin sensitivity – your body gets better at handling sugar and storing less fat.

The result? You naturally eat less without feeling like you’re starving yourself. It’s not magic – it’s your body’s own systems working more efficiently.

GLP-1 and GIP vs. GLP-1 Only

Everyone asks me this question. “Are they all the same thing?” Not quite.

GLP-1 only injections contain semaglutide and only target GLP-1 receptors. GLP-1 and GIP injections contain tirzepatide and hit both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Think of it like this: 

GLP-1 only = single-barrel shotgun

GLP-1 and GIP = double-barrel shotgun.

Both work, but GLP-1 and GIP has an extra mechanism. The results speak for themselves: GLP-1 and GIP trials showed up to 22.5% body weight loss, whilst GLP-1 only trials showed up to 14.9% body weight loss. That’s a significant difference.

How Much Weight Can You Lose with GLP-1 and GIP?

Let’s talk real numbers. In clinical trials, people lost an average of 15-22% of their body weight over 72 weeks. That’s 30-44 pounds for someone weighing 200 pounds.

But here’s what I see in practice: 

• Month 1-2: 5-10 pounds (mostly water weight and appetite changes). 
• Month 3-6: 1-2 pounds per week consistently. 
• Month 6-12: Continued steady loss, though it slows down.

Reality check: These aren’t overnight results. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Some people lose faster, some slower. It depends on your starting weight, diet, exercise, and how your body responds.

Is GLP-1 and GIP Approved for Weight Loss?

Here’s where it gets a bit complicated. 

For diabetes: Yes, fully approved by the HPRA. Weight Loss Injections Ireland don’t provide prescriptions in this scenario as if you’re diabetic you need to be monitored closely by your primary GP. 

For weight loss: Not specifically approved yet.

But doctors can prescribe it off-label for weight loss. “Off-label” just means using an approved drug for a condition it wasn’t originally approved for. It’s completely legal and happens all the time in medicine.

To get prescribed for weight loss, you typically need: BMI of 30+ (obese), or BMI of 27+ with weight-related health problems, plus previous attempts at diet and exercise. Your doctor will assess whether you’re a good candidate.

How to Use GLP-1 and GIP for Weight Loss

This isn’t complicated, but you need to do it right. 

Dosage schedule: Start at 2.5mg once weekly for 4 weeks, increase to 5mg weekly for 4 weeks, then can go up to 7.5mg, 10mg, then 15mg based on results and tolerance.

How to inject: Pre-filled pen (dead simple), inject into your thigh, belly, or upper arm, rotate injection sites each week, same day each week, any time of day. Pro tip: Start your injections on a day when you can rest the next day. The first few doses can make you feel rough.

Side Effects of GLP-1 and GIP

I’m not going to lie to you – there are side effects. 

Common ones (most people get these): Nausea (especially the first few weeks), constipation, fatigue, decreased appetite (obviously), occasional vomiting.

Serious ones (rare but important): Pancreatitis (severe stomach pain), thyroid tumours (very rare), severe allergic reactions, kidney problems. 

Who shouldn’t take it: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with a history of thyroid cancer, those with severe kidney disease, anyone with a history of pancreatitis.

The side effects usually improve after the first month. But if they don’t, talk to your doctor immediately.

Pros and Cons of GLP-1 and GIP for Weight Loss

Let me give it to you straight. 

The Good:

• Highly effective – better results than most weight loss drugs
• appetite control – you genuinely don’t think about food as much
• metabolic benefits – better blood sugar control even without diabetes
• convenient – once weekly injection.

The Not So Good: 

• Expensive – €300+per month for the starting dose, increasing to €400+
• side effects – especially the first few weeks, long-term dependency – stop taking it
• weight comes back, limited access

Bottom line: It works, but it’s not a magic bullet. You still need to make lifestyle changes for lasting results.

Cost and Access

Let’s talk about money, because this matters. 

Retail price in Ireland : Around €250-€450 per month depending on the dose.

Retail price in Northern Ireland Around £140-£199 per month depending on the dose.

Ways to reduce costs:  Use Weight Loss Injections Ireland @ www.weightlossinjections.ie to access medication from Northern Ireland with our advanced digital prescriptions.

Getting prescribed: https://weightlossinjections.ie/booking/

Long-Term Considerations

Here’s what nobody talks about enough. What happens when you stop? The weight comes back. Not all of it immediately, but most people regain 60-70% within a year.

Why? Because the drug doesn’t fix the underlying reasons you gained weight. It just makes it easier to eat less while you’re taking it.

For lasting results, you need: Better eating habits, regular exercise, proper sleep, stress management. Think of GLP-1 and GIP as a tool, not a solution. It gives you a window to build better habits. Use that window wisely.

Weight loss injections like GLP-1 and GIP can be a game-changer for people struggling with obesity. But here’s my final advice: this isn’t a decision to take lightly. Talk to your doctor. Understand the commitment. Have a plan for the long term.

And remember – the best weight loss strategy is one you can stick with for life. Whether that includes GLP-1 and GIP or not is something only you and your healthcare team can decide.

Visit WeightLossInjections.ie for comprehensive information, professional consultations, and personalised treatment plans. Don’t navigate this journey alone – get the support you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I drink alcohol while taking GLP-1 and GIP? 

Yes, but be careful. The drug slows digestion, so alcohol might affect you differently. Many people find they have less tolerance.

2. How long does it take to see results? 

Most people notice appetite changes within the first week. Significant weight loss usually starts around week 4-6.

3. Can I take GLP-1 and GIP if I don’t have diabetes? 

Yes, doctors prescribe it off-label for weight loss but if you have diabetes you should visit your primary GP as you need to be monitored closely.. You don’t need diabetes to be eligible.

4. What if I miss a dose? 

Take it as soon as you remember if it’s within 4 days. If more than 4 days, skip it and take your next scheduled dose.

5. Will I need to take this forever? 

Possibly. At Weight Loss injections Ireland we’re always reviewing and updating our policy. Currently, once a healthy BMI is reached we discontinue prescribing the medication as it’s not licensed for weight loss maintenance. Discuss long-term plans with your doctor from the start.