Is now the right time to start my weight loss drug journey?
Robert Price | Last update: 31st December 2025
Deciding to start weight loss drugs can feel like a big moment. For some of us we’ve been thinking about it for ages, months or even years. For me it was the combination of a knee operation for a problem caused mainly by (ironically) trying to be fitter through exercise, but my knee saying ‘no, thanks’ after years of being over weight and failed diets. As a middle aged man it was time to take action.
For the people I’ve met through SlimrChat, their reasons have included health, the desire to feel more confident, to support an existing weight loss journey, or just that knowing how they were living wasn’t working anymore. Here’s some thoughts to prompt your thinking
There’s no single “perfect” time. But there are sensible things to think through before you begin. Not to put you off, but to help you start in the strongest, calmest and most realistic way possible.
To be clear, this isn’t about convincing you to start. It’s about helping you decide whether now is the right moment for you. And, of course, you must consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before you start. We also recommend having a read of the NHS weight loss information too.
First things first: there’s no rush
If you meet the prescription criteria you should be able to get weight loss drugs but this doesn’t mean you have to start immediately. You don’t.
Starting your weight loss treatment journey works best when:
- you feel mentally ready
- you have space to pay attention to your body
- you can make adjustments to your eating and habits
- you’re not in a stressful time
Take time to think where you’re at and go from there. Don’t put yourself under time pressure.
Common-sense checklist
Here’s a simple list of things to help to decide whether this is the right time to start. You don’t need to tick every box. But the more of these you can honestly say “yes” to, the smoother your start is likely to be.
1. I’m doing this for me
Not because of pressure from a partner, post Christmas guilt or a looming holiday. You’re allowed to want better health, more energy, less food noise, whatever your reason is.
2. I understand this isn’t a magic fix
Weight loss drugs can be powerful tools, but they don’t do all the work for you. You’ll still need to eat well, have less alcohol, be hydrated, move, rest and more. You’ll just be doing it with support rather than a constant struggle.
3. I’m ready for some trial and error
The first few weeks can involve side effects, appetite changes, or learning new limits with food. It’s rarely perfect straight away, and that’s normal.
4. I have the headspace to listen to my body
Early on, tuning into hunger, fullness, nausea, fatigue, or dehydration really matters. If you’re flat out, exhausted, or firefighting every day, this can be harder.
5. I can afford the treatment
It’s not just the cost of the treatments if you’re paying privately, which is a major commitment with the jabs costing £150 – £350 depending on doses.
You may also start spending more on healthier food and supplements.
Financial stress can quickly turn something positive into a source of anxiety.
6. Changing how (and what) I eat
The jabs help you control your relationship with food and how full you feel after meals. But, of course, you’ll need to commit to how and what you eat.
It’s worth underlining that heavy, greasy, very rich foods often don’t sit well with these new treatments.
7. I’m okay with slower progress than social media promises
Real-life weight loss is rarely dramatic every week. Plateaus happen. Losses vary. If you’re chasing instant results, disappointment can creep in. Being prepared for this will help you on your journey.
Should I wait?
It might actually be wiser wait to start your journey if:
- you’re about to go through a major life upheaval
- you’re already dealing with unmanaged stress or burnout
- you’re recovering from illness or surgery (always consult with your doctor)
- you’re hoping the drug will “fix” emotional eating without support
Waiting isn’t failure. Sometimes it’s the best strategy for long term success.
Now is the right time
On the flip side we’ve found people often say starting felt right when:
- they were tired of fighting food thoughts constantly
- health markers were creeping the wrong way
- they wanted to prevent future problems, not just react to them
- they felt calm and clear, not desperate
That sense of quiet readiness matters.
Final thoughts
You don’t have to be 100% confident. Very few people are.
You just need to feel informed, supported, and realistic. Here’s some wisdom from the SlimrChat community.
Weight loss drugs aren’t about giving up or feeling like they’re the only option because you’ve ‘failed’ before. For many people, they’re about finally stopping the endless battle and doing things differently.
Whether you start now, later, or not at all, the most important thing is that the decision is yours.
If you do decide to begin, start gently. Ask questions. Listen to your body. And remember this is a journey, not a race.