Weight Management Clinic: Patient Information Guide

What is Semaglutide/ Tirzepatide?

Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are medications typically used to treat Type 2 Diabetes, but can also help you lose weight by:

  • Reducing appetite

  • Slowing down how fast your stomach empties

  • Helping you feel fuller for longer

These medications should be used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise program.

Your Weight Management Journey

The Private GP Group has implemented a patient care pathway to provide you with a structured, safe, and effective approach to weight loss using Semaglutide or Tirzepatide.

By following these guidelines and signing the Patient Treatment Agreement, we can work together to achieve the best possible outcomes while minimising risks. Your safety and success are our top priorities.

  • Initial Consultation

    Your weight management journey begins with an in-depth consultation with one of our experienced GPs. During this appointment, we will:

    - Review your pre-appointment questionnaire

    - Discuss your medical history

    - Measure your blood pressure, height, weight, and BMI

    - Conduct essential blood tests, including: Urea & Electrolytes, Liver Function Tests, HbA1c, Pancreatic Amylase

  • Blood Results & Treatment Initiation

    Your blood test results will be available within 24 hours. If all results are within the acceptable range, your GP will initiate treatment with a one-month supply of medication.

    Your prescription will be issued via Signature Rx directly to your phone and email.

  • 1 Month Check-In

    A telephone follow-up will be conducted after one month.

    If you are responding well to treatment with no significant side effects, your GP will issue a two-month prescription.

  • 3 Month Follow-Up

    At three months, you will have a follow-up appointment with a nurse, including:

    - Blood pressure, height, weight, and BMI measurement

    - Repeat blood tests: Urea & Electrolytes, Liver Function Tests, HbA1c, Pancreatic Amylase

    If all is well, a three-month prescription will be issued.

  • 6 Month Follow-Up

    At six months, you will have a GP consultation to discuss your progress, adherence to treatment, and any concerns.

    If appropriate, a three-month prescription will be issued.

  • 9 Month Follow-Up

    At nine months, you will have a follow-up appointment with a nurse, including:

    - Blood pressure, height, weight, and BMI measurement

    - Repeat blood tests: Urea & Electrolytes, Liver Function Tests, HbA1c, Pancreatic Amylase

    If all remains stable, a three-month prescription will be issued.

  • 12 Month Check-In

    At 12 months, you will have a GP consultation to assess your progress and determine the next steps in your weight management plan.

    If appropriate, a three-month prescription will be issued.

  • Long-Term Monitoring

    The weight management pathway should be continued for a maximum of two years.

    After the first year, blood tests will be conducted every six months to ensure ongoing safety and effectiveness of treatment.

    Check-ins will continue every three months to assess progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

    Our team is committed to supporting you on your weight management journey with regular monitoring and expert guidance.

Support for Lifestyle Changes

Combining lifestyle changes with GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, such as Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, enhances weight loss results and promotes overall health. Adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise helps maximise the medication's effectiveness, supports long-term weight management, and improves your well-being by reducing the risk of weight-related health conditions. By integrating these healthy habits, you can achieve sustainable weight loss and maintain your health for the future.

Resources & Referrals

How to take Semaglutide/ Tirzepatide?

FAQs

These FAQs aim to address common questions and concerns. If you have any additional queries, please do not hesitate The Private GP Group.

    • Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are medications that help with weight loss by reducing appetite and slowing stomach emptying, which makes you feel fuller for longer.

    • Oral Semaglutide: Take one tablet daily with up to 4 ounces of water. Do not eat, drink, or take any other medications for at least 30 minutes after taking the tablet.

    • Injectable Semaglutide/Tirzepatide: Follow the injection instructions provided by the manufacturer. Rotate injection sites to avoid skin irritation.

    • Oral Semaglutide: Skip the missed dose and take your next dose the following day at the usual time. Do not take two doses at the same time.

    • Injectable Semaglutide/Tirzepatide: If you miss a dose and it is less than 5 days until your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. If it is more than 5 days until your dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

    • Nausea

    • Vomiting

    • Diarrhoea

    • Constipation

    • Low blood sugar (if you have diabetes)

    • Injection site reactions (for injectables)

    • Eat smaller, more frequent meals to help with nausea.

    • Stay hydrated, especially if experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea.

    • Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation.

    • Blood tests are essential for monitoring your health and ensuring the medication is safe and effective for you. They help:

    • Monitor organ function: Tests like liver function (LFT) and kidney function (U/E) ensure these organs are working properly while you are on the medication.

    • Check glucose levels: HbA1c tests monitor your blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes.

    • Assess pancreatic health: Amylase tests can detect any issues with your pancreas. Regular blood tests allow your GP to detect any potential issues early and adjust your treatment if necessary.

    • Severe abdominal pain (possible sign of pancreatitis)

    • Persistent nausea or vomiting

    • Symptoms of low blood sugar (e.g., dizziness, sweating, confusion)

    • Any new or worsening health conditions

    • Regular follow-up appointments allow your healthcare provider to monitor your progress, adjust your medication if necessary, and manage any side effects. These appointments are crucial for ensuring the treatment's safety and effectiveness.

    • Contact The Private GP Group immediately if you experience severe or persistent side effects. They will provide guidance on how to manage the side effects or if any adjustments to your treatment plan are needed. If you feel is it a medical emergency please call 999.

    • Your progress will be monitored through regular assessments of your weight, BMI, and relevant blood tests (e.g., liver function, kidney function, HbA1c, amylase). These assessments help ensure that the medication is working effectively and safely.

    • Do not stop taking the medication without consulting a GP. They will guide you on how to maintain your weight loss and whether it is safe to discontinue the medication.

    • The maximum recommended duration for taking these medications for weight loss is typically 2 years. The GP will regularly review your progress via the scheduled appointments and decide if continuing the medication is appropriate.

    • Follow a balanced diet as recommended by the GP or dietitian.

    • Engage in regular physical activity.

    • Utilise additional support services, such as psychological counselling, nutritional advice, and exercise programs.

    • Yes, maintaining healthy lifestyle changes is essential for sustaining weight loss and overall health even after stopping the medication.

    • Contact The Private GP Group if you have any questions or concerns about your medication or treatment plan. We are here to support you and provide the information you need.