For weight management, only semaglutide (Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda) are specifically licensed in the UK
Theres currently no scientific evidence that over-the-counter weight loss patches are effective for significant weight loss
The triple-agonist mechanism (GLP-1 + GIP + glucagon) produces higher GI rates than semaglutide or tirzepatide alone, with the glucagon receptor being the primary driver of the difference
Semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) have demonstrated significant average weight loss14.9% and 20.9% of body weight at approximately one year, respectively
Therefore, not all headaches occurring during semaglutide therapy are necessarily caused by the medication
This catches early absorption changes After each significant weight milestone (every 10-15 pounds lost): Recheck TSH and free T4 Every 3-4 months during active weight loss phase: Full thyroid panel including TSH, free T4, free T3 After weight stabilization: Return to every 6 months for the first year, then annually if stable This is more frequent than most GLP-1 prescribers recommend for non-thyroid patients
