Key principles for better conversations are included in the 'Language Matters' guidance document via the Healthy Weight Resources page here.

In summary:

Use person-first language

Say: “person living with obesity”

Avoid: “obese person”

Ask permission before raising the topic For example: “Would it be okay if we talked about your weight today?”

Avoid blame or assumptions Recognise that obesity is complex and influenced by biological, psychological, and environmental factors — not simply lifestyle choices.

Be empathetic and encouraging Use phrases like: “It sounds like this has been tough for you” or “You’ve made real progress — keep going.”

Focus on positive outcomes Emphasise benefits such as improved energy, mobility, or wellbeing, rather than just weight loss.

Ask: “What changes would help you feel better in yourself?”

Avoid stigmatising or judgmental language Don’t use terms like “fat”, “lazy”, or “just eat less”.

Use respectful, neutral language and avoid assumptions.

Collaborate on realistic, personalised goals Ask: “What would success look like for you?”

Encourage shared decision-making and acknowledge individual progress.

Create an inclusive clinical environment Ensure appropriate seating, weighing areas, and equipment are available.

Aim to make the setting comfortable, private, and welcoming.

The expected weight loss typically consists of approximately 75% fat and 25% muscle. There have been noted mental health effects, particularly with Ozempic, and weight regain is common after stopping treatment. This is generally considered a long-term or lifelong medication.

At present, NICE guidelines do not specify a maximum duration for therapy, so in theory, the medication could be taken long-term. However, this may be reviewed following the upcoming 3-year evaluation. If the treatment was initially accessed privately and the patient no longer meets NHS eligibility criteria at the time of presentation, then they would not be eligible to continue it on the NHS.

Yes, current evidence indicates that around 90% of patients regain weight once treatment is stopped, which supports the view that this medication is not a short-term solution but part of long-term disease management.

Obesity is increasingly being treated as a chronic, relapsing condition — much like type 2 diabetes or hypertension — where ongoing pharmacological support may be required to maintain benefits.

As more patients begin treatment and remain on it long-term, the overall cost burden will likely grow. That said, this isn’t necessarily a sign of failure; rather, it reflects the reality that sustained weight loss often requires sustained intervention.

This drug is not a “cure-all” for obesity — it’s a tool, and one that works best alongside dietary, behavioural, and lifestyle support. Over time, as patents expire and generic versions become available, the cost per patient may decrease. But the broader question is whether the healthcare system is prepared to treat obesity as a long-term condition, rather than expecting a short course of medication to deliver permanent results.

No, blood glucose monitors are not required. Patients will be advised to monitor for symptoms of hypoglycaemia, but routine self-monitoring of blood glucose isn’t necessary when GLP-1 receptor agonists or Tirzepatide are used as monotherapy.

Hairloss can be a side-effect. It could also indicate their diet is low in protein and so it is important they attend the wraparound service that provides education on this.

Wear off is possible, thus wraparound care vital to support diet, lifestyle, portions, timing and food choices.

No, that wouldn’t be considered appropriate.

In most cases, faulty pens are due to incorrect dialing of the medication — we’ve come across this a couple of times.