Northern Ireland is set to offer weight loss injections through the health service after approving its first regional obesity management program. Currently, patients lack access to specialist weight management services, but this will change starting in 2026.
The Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, described the move as a “significant step forward” following a public consultation by the Department of Health. The initial phase will focus on a community-based service providing lifestyle support and access to obesity medications when clinically appropriate.
The service will follow National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. Its rollout will be gradual to ensure safety and effectiveness. Future phases may include additional treatments such as bariatric surgery, depending on funding.
Nesbitt said the new service will align Northern Ireland with other parts of the UK. He called it “a very important day for public health” and noted that full implementation will require time and sustained investment.
Two medications, Wegovy and Mounjaro, are expected to be used. These are weekly injections given by pre-filled pens that patients can self-administer. They mimic the hormone GLP-1, which suppresses appetite by making people feel full. Mounjaro also targets another hormone involved in metabolism and energy regulation.
Patients usually start on a low dose that gradually increases to a maintenance level. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and sometimes hair loss. While many manage these effects, some stop treatment because of them. Rare serious side effects may include gallbladder and kidney problems, and depression.
One patient, Marc, shared his experience on the BBC News NI podcast “The State of Us.” Weighing 23.4 stone and managing conditions like high cholesterol and fatty liver, he struggled with weight his whole life. After trying many methods, Marc turned to an online pharmacy for weight loss injections.
He described the medication’s effect as silencing cravings. “The silence is deafening. I don’t have the obsession to eat lots,” he said. Marc has kept in touch with his online pharmacy and his GP, noting occasional headaches as a side effect.
Northern Ireland’s new program aims to provide safe, regulated access to these medications alongside lifestyle support, offering hope to those battling obesity.
Related Topics:
Some States Cover Obesity Drugs Under Medicaid
Connecticut AG Targets Illegal Weight-Loss Drug Sales Statewide
