Do Weight Loss Tablets Really Work? What the Science Says

If you’ve ever searched for weight loss tablets UK, you’ll know just how many options are available — from over-the-counter supplements to prescription-only medications. With so many promises and claims, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or sceptical. Do they actually work? And more importantly, are they safe and effective?

At Junction Pharmacy, we support patients on every step of their weight loss journey — including those using medication as part of a medically supervised plan. In this post, we’ll break down how different types of weight loss tablets work, what the science says about their effectiveness, and why weight loss injections like Mounjaro are becoming a more reliable and recommended choice for many.

Types of Weight Loss Tablets and How They Work

Most weight loss tablets fall into three main categories, each targeting different aspects of appetite or metabolism:

1. Appetite Suppressants

These tablets work by affecting the brain’s hunger signals, helping you feel fuller for longer. They may influence neurotransmitters such as serotonin or norepinephrine to reduce food intake.

Examples:

–> Phentermine – not widely available in the UK without private prescription

–> Supplements containing glucomannan – a natural fibre that swells in the stomach

Evidence:

Some prescription appetite suppressants have shown modest success in clinical trials, especially when combined with lifestyle changes. However, over-the-counter options tend to be less effective due to weaker active ingredients or lack of regulation.

2. Fat Blockers

Fat blockers prevent the absorption of some dietary fat in the digestive system, allowing it to pass through the body without being stored.

Example:

–> Orlistat (Alli or Xenical) – the only licensed fat-blocking medication available in the UK

Evidence:

Studies have shown that Orlistat can lead to modest weight loss (around 5% of body weight over 3 to 6 months) when combined with a low-fat diet. However, it often causes unpleasant side effects such as oily stools, flatulence, and stomach discomfort, which can lead to poor adherence.

3. Metabolism Boosters

These aim to increase your metabolic rate, encouraging your body to burn more calories at rest.

Examples:

• –> Green tea extract

• –> Caffeine-based supplements

• –> L-carnitine or capsaicin

Evidence:

There is limited and inconsistent evidence for the effectiveness of metabolism boosters. Most studies show only a minor increase in calorie burn, which may not lead to meaningful weight loss on its own. These supplements are also not regulated as medicines in the UK, raising concerns about quality and safety.

The Verdict: Do Weight Loss Tablets Work?

Some weight loss tablets available in the UK — particularly prescription options — do offer short-term support for weight loss, especially when combined with healthy eating and physical activity. However, they are not a cure-all, and results can vary significantly between individuals.

Many over-the-counter options, while heavily marketed, lack strong scientific backing and are not subject to the same rigorous testing as prescription medications. This can make them less effective and less reliable.

Why Weight Loss Injections Like Mounjaro Are a Game-Changer

Unlike most oral weight loss tablets, new injectable treatments such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have demonstrated far more impressive results in clinical trials.

How it works:

Mounjaro mimics natural hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) involved in regulating blood sugar and appetite. It slows gastric emptying, reduces hunger, and improves insulin sensitivity — leading to substantial weight loss in many patients.

The evidence:

In studies, patients using Mounjaro have lost up to 20% of their body weight when paired with lifestyle modifications — significantly more than the average weight loss achieved with tablets like Orlistat or phentermine.

Why we favour it at Junction Pharmacy:

• –> Higher efficacy than traditional weight loss tablets

• –> Weekly injection with simple administration

• –> Helps with long-term weight management, not just short-term fixes

• –> Fewer gastrointestinal side effects when compared to fat blockers

We provide weight loss consultations for patients interested in Mounjaro, Wegovy, and similar medications, offering full guidance on dosage, side effects, and how to combine them with nutrition and physical activity.

How We Support Your Weight Loss Journey

At Junction Pharmacy, we don’t offer one-size-fits-all advice. Whether you’re considering weight loss tablets, injections like Mounjaro, lifestyle changes or a combination approach, we take time to assess your individual needs, lifestyle, and goals.

Our services include:

• –> Private consultations

• –> Weight and body composition tracking

• –> Dietary advice and portion control tips

• –> Support with cravings and emotional eating

• –> Medication management and injection training

Achieve Real, Lasting Results

Weight loss tablets can offer limited support — but they are rarely the most effective option on their own. For those looking for real, lasting results, weight loss injections like Mounjaro are setting a new standard in medically supported weight management.

If you’d like to explore your options with a professional, visit Junction Pharmacy today or reach out to our team. We’ll help you find the safest and most effective treatment plan for your weight loss goals.

This blog was written on behalf of Junction Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.