If you’ve ever explored fast weight loss options or weight loss medications, chances are you’ve come across GLP-1s. These injectable treatments, including Mounjaro, are part of a group of drugs originally developed to help people manage type 2 diabetes. They are now being prescribed for their potential to support weight loss in people living with obesity.
One of the most well-known GLP-1s is semaglutide, sold under brand names like Wegovy and Ozempic. It mimics a naturally occurring hormone (GLP-1) that regulates appetite and blood sugar. By slowing digestion and increasing feelings of fullness, these medications help people eat less and lose weight over time.
Why are so many people interested in GLP-1s?
Over the past two years, there has been a significant increase in demand for GLP-1 medications. While Wegovy and Mounjaro are now available on the NHS, strict eligibility criteria and ongoing supply issues mean that access remains limited for many.
Private prescriptions for weight loss medication are available but can cost hundreds of pounds per month, making long-term use unaffordable for most people. Online marketplaces have popped up in response, promising affordable drugs to support rapid weight loss, but these forums are unregulated, and there is no guarantee that the weight loss drugs they’re selling are safe or effective.
So, what are the options for those seeking to access GLP-1s without excessive costs?
What are GLP-1 clinical trials?
One option that’s often overlooked is clinical research. Across the UK, a growing number of GLP-1 clinical trials are recruiting individuals with obesity or related health conditions.
These studies test investigative weight loss medications or new methods of administering them and aim to understand how they work in individuals from diverse backgrounds. Eligible participants take part under the supervision of a professional clinical study team, with regular check-ins and health assessments.
Why consider a clinical trial?
Clinical trials aren’t just for people with serious medical conditions. Many studies are open to individuals living with obesity, high BMI, or pre-diabetes, and they offer participants structure, support, and study-related care.
Participants who take part in GLP-1 studies typically receive:
- Study medication at no cost: All study-related medication is provided as part of the trial, along with any required tests or check-ups.
- Regular health monitoring: Trials are run by specialist medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, nutritionists, and coordinators. It’s their job to monitor participants’ health and progress throughout the trial.
- Reimbursement for time and travel: Some trials offer support to cover transport costs or time off work.
- Help medical researchers: By joining a trial, you’re helping researchers understand investigative medicines and bring them to more people.
Who is eligible for clinical trials?
There are GLP-1 clinical trials focused on both obesity and type 2 diabetes. Each study has its own eligibility criteria, but most GLP-1 weight loss trials are looking for participants who:
- Are aged 18 or over
- Have a BMI of >24.9 (varies by study)
- Are not currently taking similar medications
Depending on the trial, they may also be looking for patients with certain health conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Are clinical trials safe?
All clinical trials in the UK follow strict ethical and regulatory standards. Before any study begins, it must be reviewed and approved by an independent research ethics committee. That means the rights, safety, and well-being of participants are always the top priority.
When participants volunteer to join a study, they are fully informed about what’s involved before the study begins, and they’re free to leave at any time for any reason.
Who runs clinical trials?
If you’re considering taking part in a clinical trial, it’s important to understand who you’re working with.
Velocity Clinical Research is a large integrated clinical trials network, with more than 80 sites worldwide. We’ve worked on leading GLP-1 trials, including those involving semaglutide (Wegovy), and have over 200 specialist doctors (principal investigators) leading our research studies, supported by a team that has experience in over 35,000 trials globally.
How do you participate in clinical trials?
You don’t need a GP referral to take part in a clinical trial. Most studies start with a short prescreening questionnaire that checks whether you might be eligible. It only takes a few minutes and doesn’t commit you to anything.
If you qualify, you’ll be contacted by the research team, who can walk you through the next steps, including what the study involves, how long it lasts, and what study-related support you’ll receive. You can take time to decide if it’s right for you, and you’re free to leave the trial at any point.
Clinical trials: another route to understanding health
When you’re looking for weight loss medication, it’s natural to think first about prescriptions or pharmacy shelves. But for many people, clinical trials offer a different path: one that’s supported, monitored, and focused on delivering better outcomes.
With obesity affecting millions of people across the UK, there’s never been a greater need to research weight loss medications. If you’re eligible, a clinical trial could offer study-related care and the chance to contribute to medical advancements.
Ready to see if there’s a study for you?
Interested in taking part in a GLP-1 clinical trial? Complete a short questionnaire to see if you’re eligible and find a study near you.
