The weight loss injection: A way to lose weight or just a trend?

The weight loss injection semaglutide, known under the brand names Wegovy and Ozempic, is now available by prescription. Dr. Carsten Lekutat recommends checking with a doctor about the requirements before taking it. One of the guidelines for prescribing is a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. If you have a BMI of 27 or more, the injection can also be prescribed if you have comorbidities such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

Weight loss of up to 15 percent can be achieved with the injection within a year. The cost of the medication is around 3,000 euros. Compared to other measures such as gastric balloons or surgical procedures, weight loss injections are often cheaper and less risky. However, statutory health insurance companies currently do not regularly cover the costs because semaglutide is classified as a lifestyle medication. However, decisions can be made on a case-by-case basis, especially in cases of severe obesity with comorbidities. Private insurers are more flexible, although the cost coverage depends on the respective tariff.

Effect and requirements

Weight loss injections such as Wegovy, Mounjaro and Ozempic, which are becoming increasingly popular in Germany, contain GLP-1 agonists. This mimic of the hormone GLP-1 regulates appetite and blood sugar. Semaglutide was originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. The effects of these shots include increased satiety, slower gastric emptying, and potential metabolism boost.

These weight loss injections are aimed at adults with a BMI over 30 or a BMI of 27 to 29 if there are comorbidities. To obtain a prescription, medical indications, an appropriate BMI, previous weight loss attempts, a health check, regular follow-up examinations and comprehensive information are required. The cost of the syringes varies depending on the medication, dosage and manufacturer; Additional costs may apply for doctor visits and consultations. The high prices result from the extensive research, development and approval processes.

Although health insurance companies usually cover the costs of diabetes medications such as Ozempic, it should be noted that weight loss injections are usually only prescribed with a private prescription. Obesity has been recognized as a disease since 2020, but statutory health insurance companies often refuse to cover the costs of weight-loss injections. To apply for coverage, medical examinations, evidence of previous weight loss attempts and documentation of medical necessity are required. While statutory health insurance companies finance behavioral therapies, nutritional advice and, in certain cases, surgical interventions, for the latter medical indications, previous attempts at therapy and psychological suitability must be proven. It is also important to receive regular follow-up care after bariatric surgery. Weight loss injections can help you lose weight, but they do not replace a healthy lifestyle.