Updating your doctor on your weight loss drug journey
Robert Price | Last update: 1st June 2025
It’s a big step to start the journey with weight loss drugs like Mounjaro and Wegovy – and we always recommend it’s not one you should take alone. Keeping your GP or healthcare provider informed about your progress is important even if you feel slightly embarrassed, like many of us do. This is for your safety but also to ensure you’re getting the most effective support throughout the journey.
Here’s why, when and how to stay in touch with your doctor.
Why Keeping in Touch Matters
Weight loss drugs are powerful tools that can support appetite reduction, blood sugar control and long-term health improvements. Of course they can have side effects, interactions and impacts on other areas of your health.
This is why your doctor needs to track how your body is responding, adjust dosages where needed, and monitor for any emerging risks. Some of us may also see changes in medication needs (like lower insulin or blood pressure medication) as weight is lost, so regular check-ins are important.
When to Update Your Doctor
You should speak to your doctor during your weight loss drug journey:
- Before starting any weight loss treatment, especially if prescribed privately or through a clinic. Your GP can help coordinate your care and flag any issues with your medical history.
- If you experience side effects, including nausea, fatigue, constipation, mood changes or signs of low blood sugar.
- At regular intervals, such as every 1-3 months, to review your progress and assess next steps.
- If you stop the treatments, as weight regain is common and your doctor can help with long-term strategies.
NHS guidelines recommend that obesity treatment should be part of a wider care plan that includes lifestyle support, mental health screening and regular reviews, not just the prescription of a drug alone
What to Share
When you speak to your doctor, come prepared with:
- Your current weight and any recent changes.
- Your dosing schedule and whether you’ve had any gaps or missed doses.
- Side effects you’ve experienced.
- Any changes to your diet, activity, or mood.
- Goals you’re working toward, or concerns you have.
If you’re using an online pharmacy or a private weight loss service it’s sensible, and it’s strongly advised, to share those updates with your NHS GP as well. A collaborative approach helps avoid fragmented and disjointed care.
Building a Supportive Relationship
Some people feel awkward discussing weight with their doctor, especially if they’ve had negative experiences in the past. But remember: this is your healthcare, and your GP is there to support you. If you feel judged or not listened to, you’re entitled to request a different GP or bring an advocate with you.
Open, honest communication makes a big difference. Your doctor can help you:
- Navigate plateaus or setbacks
- Refer you to specialist services, such as dietitians or mental health support
- Plan for maintenance and long-term weight management
Final Thoughts
Weight loss drugs are transformational but they work best when part of a joined-up plan that includes your GP. Keep them informed, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to speak up about what’s working or not.
Jump into our forums to see what our community is saying, or start a thread and get advice!