In today’s fast-paced world, many people are looking for quicker and more effective ways to shed those extra kilos. And with the rise of new injectable weight loss drugs like Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Liraglutide, there’s growing buzz around whether experts have finally found a shortcut to lasting weight loss.
These injectables, originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, are now being used to treat obesity in some cases. But experts say that while these medications may offer fast results, they are not a magic fix and must be used with care and under proper medical guidance.
“Weight loss is much more than just shedding a few kilos,” says Dr. Anju Ghei, MBBS, PGCRT, Head – Preventive Health, VLCC. “It involves balancing your hormones, improving gut health, managing stress, and making long-term changes to your diet and lifestyle,” she further said.
What are these weight loss injections?
Drugs like Semaglutide (popularly known by its brand name Ozempic), Tirzepatide, and Liraglutide fall under a class of medications called GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists. These are incretin-based drugs, which mimic hormones naturally released in the gut when we eat.
They work by:
- Triggering insulin release to lower blood sugar,
- Slowing digestion,
- Reducing appetite,
- And promoting a sense of fullness.
“These injectables can help people lose 10–20 per cent of their body weight and are especially effective in people with obesity-linked conditions like insulin resistance, diabetes, or PCOS,” says Dr. Ghei.
However, their benefits come with potential side effects including nausea, constipation, and in rare cases, inflammation of the pancreas. Plus, they’re expensive and not always covered by insurance.
Are weight loss injections for everyone?
Dr. Ghei stresses that these medications should not be used casually or without clinical need. “Weight-loss injections are not one-size-fits-all,” she explains. “They are suitable for people with specific medical conditions, and only when lifestyle changes alone haven’t worked,” she further adds.
Before starting any injectable, a complete health assessment is essential. Doctors look at factors like blood sugar levels, metabolic rate, liver function, and hormonal balance. Without this, the risks can outweigh the benefits.
Why lifestyle still matters
Many people assume that once they start injectables, they no longer need to worry about exercise or diet. But that’s not the truth.
“Injectables can help kick-start weight loss, but the results are often temporary if you don’t fix the root causes,” says Dr. Ghei. “The real key lies in building long-term, healthy habits.”This is where integrated wellness comes in.
What is integrated wellness?
Integrated wellness is a holistic, non-drug approach to weight management that combines:
- Nutritional guidance and calorie control,
- Regular physical activity,
- Stress management (including mindfulness and better sleep),
- Behavioural therapy or coaching.
“Think of it as a full-body reset—physically, mentally, and emotionally,” says Dr. Ghei. “You don’t just lose weight. You gain energy, sleep better, think more clearly, and feel emotionally balanced.”
Unlike injectables, this method has no side effects, is sustainable for life, and can be personalized to suit an individual’s goals, preferences, and pace.
However, Dr. Ghei admits that this route requires discipline and consistency.
“It’s not a quick fix,” she adds. “But for many people, it’s the best path to long-term results and self-confidence.”
The best approach? Combine both, but wisely
So, what’s the ideal path? According to Dr. Ghei, it’s not about picking one or the other. In some cases, a combination approach may be best.
“Some patients may benefit from short-term use of injectables, alongside an integrated wellness program,” she explains. “But this must be done under medical supervision with clear tracking of progress, not just in weight, but in sleep, digestion, energy, and mood.”
The goal, she says, is to build a personalized strategy that works for you not just today, but in the long run.
What to keep in mind if you’re considering injectables
If you’re thinking about starting injectable weight-loss drugs, here’s Dr. Ghei’s advice:
- Consult a medical expert before starting.
- Ask whether lifestyle changes alone may work for you.
- Don’t expect permanent results without lifestyle support.
- Be aware of the side effects and long-term costs.
- Use them as part of a bigger plan, not a standalone fix.
“Weight loss is a journey, not a destination,” says Dr. Ghei. “And the real win isn’t just in dropping kilos, it’s in gaining back control, confidence, and vitality.”
Injectables can be powerful tools, especially for people with serious health conditions. But they’re not for everyone, and they’re definitely not a substitute for lifestyle change. Whether you choose a medical path, a natural one, or a mix of both, informed decisions and professional guidance are key.