Beyond the injection

Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire conducted an online survey between May and June 2026 to understand local people's awareness, experiences and views of prescription weight loss medications. The survey received 61 responses from people with a range of experiences, including current users, former users and those considering treatment. 

The survey found very high awareness of weight loss medications. Nearly four-fifths of respondents described themselves as very familiar with these treatments, although many still wanted clearer information about side effects, long-term impacts, eligibility criteria and how to maintain weight loss after treatment ends. 

Respondents most commonly learned about weight loss medications through social media, news coverage, friends and family rather than directly from healthcare professionals. This raised concerns about whether people are receiving accurate and balanced information about these treatments. 

Many respondents reported that obesity had a major impact on their lives, affecting their physical health, emotional wellbeing, confidence, mobility and relationships. People described living with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, chronic pain and reduced mobility, while others highlighted the impact on their mental health and self-esteem. 

Although respondents were generally supportive of weight loss medications, they strongly rejected the idea that they are a “quick fix”. Most viewed medication as a useful tool that should be combined with healthier eating, physical activity, behavioural support and long-term lifestyle changes. 

Experiences of medication were largely positive. Of those who had used weight loss medication, most reported satisfaction with treatment and described benefits including significant weight loss, improved confidence, increased energy levels and better management of obesity-related conditions such as pre-diabetes. 

However, side effects were common, with respondents reporting issues such as nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, headaches, fatigue and hair loss. Cost, potential long-term health effects and medication safety were also recurring concerns. 

The survey identified considerable confusion about accessing treatment through the NHS. Although most respondents knew that some weight loss medications could be prescribed on the NHS, many were unclear about eligibility criteria, referral pathways and prescribing responsibilities. Several participants felt they met the criteria for treatment but had still been unable to access medication. 

As a result, many people reported turning to private providers. While some achieved positive outcomes through private treatment, they also highlighted the financial burden and expressed concerns that access to effective treatment should not depend on an individual's ability to pay. 

The report also found that weight-related stigma remains a significant barrier. Nearly half of respondents said they had felt judged or stigmatised when seeking support. Some described being blamed for health problems because of their weight, while others said previous negative experiences had discouraged them from seeking healthcare. 

One of the strongest messages from the survey was that people want support alongside medication. Respondents most frequently requested nutritional advice, exercise programmes, behavioural or psychological support, regular clinical monitoring, and continued support after treatment ends. They emphasised that long-term success depends on a personalised package of care rather than medication alone.

Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire concluded that obesity should be recognised as a complex, long-term health condition requiring compassionate, person-centred care. The report recommends improving public information about eligibility and referral pathways, creating more consistent NHS prescribing arrangements, providing integrated lifestyle and psychological support alongside medication, reducing weight-related stigma, improving communication about long-term treatment expectations, and ensuring equitable access to support regardless of whether medication is prescribed through the NHS or privately. 

Overall, the report found strong public support for clinically appropriate access to weight loss medication, but respondents consistently emphasised that medication should form part of a wider, integrated approach to weight management that includes information, support and ongoing clinical care.