{"id":278047,"date":"2026-02-11T03:57:09","date_gmt":"2026-02-11T03:57:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/278047\/"},"modified":"2026-02-11T03:57:09","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T03:57:09","slug":"not-magic-shots-uae-doctors-explain-who-can-take-weight-loss-injections","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/278047\/","title":{"rendered":"\u2018Not magic shots\u2019: UAE doctors explain who can take weight-loss injections"},"content":{"rendered":"

Weight-loss injections like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro<\/a> are becoming popular in the UAE and many residents see them as quick solutions to shed kilos. But UAE doctors said that these medications are not cosmetic shortcuts and they are not meant for everyone.<\/p>\n

\u201cThese drugs were originally developed for diabetes. They belong to a class of medicines based on hormones that our body naturally produces to regulate blood sugar and metabolism,\u201d said Dr Ali Aldibbiat, consultant in diabetes and endocrinology and MD and CEO of Newcastle Vitality Clinic.<\/p>\n

He said that while these medications were first used to treat type 2 diabetes, researchers later discovered that they also support weight reduction. \u201cWe should not look at them as a shortcut for weight loss. They are safe and effective when used properly, but they are helpers in a weight-loss journey and not magic solutions,\u201d said Dr Ali.<\/p>\n

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.<\/a><\/p>\n

\"\"Who can take them?<\/p>\n

According to Dr Aldibbiat, eligibility depends on medical criteria. For weight management, these medicines are usually prescribed to people with a Body Mass Index<\/a> (BMI) of 27 or higher if they also have weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, fatty liver or joint problems. Those with a BMI of 30 or above may qualify even if they do not have other health issues.<\/p>\n

If prescribed for diabetes, doctors also consider blood sugar control and whether the patient has heart or kidney risks. \u201cThere is strong evidence that some of these medications protect the heart, kidneys and liver,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

Rising demand, including cosmetic use<\/p>\n

Doctors said that demand has increased significantly over the past year. \u201cThere has been a clear increase in demand for GLP-1 injections globally and in the UAE,\u201d said Dr Brijesh Bharadwaj, a specialist in internal medicine at NMC Royal Hospital, DIP. \u201cWe are seeing younger, non-diabetic individuals requesting them mainly for cosmetic weight loss.\u201d<\/p>\n

He added that social media has played a major role in boosting awareness. \u201cThese medications are sometimes promoted as magical drugs with quick results, but often without explaining the possible risks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"Not a substitute for healthy lifestyle<\/p>\n

Doctors also said that injections alone are not enough. \u201cThere is a misconception that these are magical weight-loss drugs,\u201d said Dr Bharadwaj.<\/p>\n

\u201cMany patients underestimate the importance of diet and physical activity. Once they stop the injections, weight can return quickly and sometimes even faster.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dr Aldibbiat mentioned that stopping the medication suddenly is not dangerous in most cases, but weight regain is common. \u201cIf the treatment is for diabetes, blood sugar levels may also rise quickly,\u201d he said. \u201cTreatment should only be stopped under medical advice.\u201d<\/p>\n

Possible side effects<\/p>\n

Doctors describe these medications as generally safe and well tolerated. The most common side effects include nausea, occasional vomiting, constipation or diarrhoea, and bloating. These symptoms are usually temporary.<\/p>\n

However, rapid weight loss can also lead to muscle loss if nutrition is not properly managed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen appetite reduces significantly, patients must ensure adequate protein and vitamin intake,\u201d said Dr Bharadwaj. \u201cOtherwise, there is a risk of nutritional deficiencies.\u201d<\/p>\n

Who should avoid them?<\/p>\n

These medications are not suitable for everyone. People with a history of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) should avoid them. They are also not recommended for those with a personal or family history of a rare thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma. Pregnant women, those trying to conceive, and breastfeeding mothers should not use them.<\/p>\n

\u201cFormal medical assessment is very important before starting these treatments,\u201d said Dr Aldibbiat. \u201cPatient selection and safety evaluation are essential.\u201d<\/p>\n

Pharmacists urge caution<\/p>\n

Pharmacists said that awareness of these brands is high. \u201cOne common misconception is that these medications are quick-fix weight-loss solutions,\u201d said Ravi Sharma, chief pharmacy officer at Burjeel Holdings. \u201cIn reality, they are long-term metabolic therapies that work best alongside lifestyle modification and medical monitoring.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

He added that these medicines are prescription-only and must be taken under physician supervision.<\/p>\n

As demand grows across the UAE, experts have said the message is simple: these injections can be highly effective when used correctly, but they are medical treatments, not magic shots.<\/p>\n

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