Hormone Replacement Therapy

The newest FDA-approved treatment for weight management and type 2 diabetes.

Includes tirzepatide, a medication that acts on two important hormones: GLP-1 and GIP.

This dual-action approach helps suppress appetite while also supporting better blood sugar regulation.

Intended to deliver improved results when used alongside lifestyle modifications.

Approved for weight management in adults who are overweight or obese.

Contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication.

Works by mimicking a natural hormone that influences the brain’s appetite regulation centers.

Supports reduced hunger and calorie consumption to encourage long-term weight loss.

Although oral and injectable weight loss medications can contain the same active ingredient (like semaglutide), their chemical formulations are specifically tailored to their method of delivery. Injectable medications are administered directly into the bloodstream, while oral medications must withstand the digestive process, resulting in different designs to maintain their effectiveness.

Key distinctions include:

• Injectables bypass the digestive tract, allowing for more efficient absorption; oral medications often require absorption enhancers.
• Oral tablets are formulated with protective coatings and carriers to withstand stomach acid.
• Injectables are often chemically more stable, especially for peptide-based drugs.
• Injectables generally allow for higher drug levels in the blood.
• Oral tablets contain more excipients (binders, coatings, etc.) than injectables.

Oral weight loss medications can be effective, but they don’t always function identically to injectable treatments. Even when containing the same active ingredient, oral medications are absorbed differently, which can slightly impact how much of the drug is available to work in the body.

That said, for many individuals, oral options offer a convenient and clinically effective alternative.

Key points:

• Oral medications may deliver lower drug levels into the bloodstream compared to injectables.
• Higher oral doses are often used to make up for reduced absorption.
• Clinical trials show that oral semaglutide (like Rybelsus) can produce weight loss comparable to injections in some individuals.
• For those who prefer to avoid injections, oral treatments provide an effective option when taken as directed and consistently.

Menopause occurs naturally as a woman’s body transitions out of its reproductive years, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. It is caused by a decline in hormone production, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, which are essential for regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting various bodily functions. Factors such as surgical removal of ovaries, certain medical treatments, or premature ovarian insufficiency can also induce menopause.

Menopause is usually diagnosed based on symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. For women under 45, blood tests may be conducted to measure hormone levels and confirm the diagnosis. A healthcare provider will also consider a woman’s medical history and overall health when evaluating symptoms.

HRT is one of the most effective treatments for managing menopausal symptoms. It works by replacing the hormones that the body no longer produces, helping to alleviate symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. There are various forms of HRT available, including tablets, patches, gels, and vaginal creams. The choice of treatment depends on individual needs, medical history, and preferences. While HRT is effective, it is not suitable for everyone, and the risks and benefits should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Although menopause cannot be prevented, its symptoms can be managed effectively with a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medical treatment. A healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and adequate hydration can support bone and overall health. Managing stress and prioritizing sleep can also help alleviate some symptoms.

Avoiding triggers like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods may reduce hot flushes for some women. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider ensure that any treatments, including HRT, remain effective and appropriate.

Read more about Menopause on the NHS website, following the link below:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/