Human Health Talk: What is GLP-1?
2026.4.23
Latest medical insights, brought to you by Human Health!
In every episode of Human Health Talk, we break down the latest healthcare information relevant to Hong Kong—from government policies to breakthroughs in medical technology—all closely tied to your health, so you can stay up to date with the newest developments.
In this episode, we introduce one of the hottest medical topics in recent years: weight-loss injections. What is GLP-1? If you’ve ever wondered what weight-loss injections are, how much they cost, what their side effects are, or whether you should consider using them, why not spend just 6 minutes listening to our clear explanation?
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Human Health Talk: Hong Kong Government Funded Medical Program Latest medical insights, brought to you by Human Health! In every episode of Human Health Talk, we break down the latest healthcare information relevant to Hong Kong—from government policies to breakthroughs in medical technology—all closely tied to your health, so you can stay up to date with the newest developments. Healthcare policies are updated and change every year, and with technology advancing rapidly, medical and health techniques are evolving day by day. So, for the very first episode of the program, we're introducing the regular, ongoing medical subsidies that benefit the general public in Hong Kong. Let's take a look together at which subsidies you can make use of right now. 2026.3.13 
What weight do you need to use weight loss injections? How do you know if weight loss injections are used correctly? Maintaining a healthy body weight is one of the key indicators of a healthy lifestyle. The simplest reference standard is the Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI above the normal range indicates being overweight, meaning the body has accumulated excess fat, which increases the risk of developing a variety of health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gout, fatty liver, kidney failure, heart disease, heart failure, stroke, joint degeneration, infertility, and certain cancers. Taking early action to manage obesity is essential for maintaining good health. To calculate your BMI, use the calculator below:https://humanhealth.com.hk/en/healthinfo/category/bmi/ How overweight is “too overweight”? According to Asian body composition standards, a BMI of 23–25 is considered “overweight.” If you already have conditions such as fatty liver, diabetes, hypertension, or hyperlipidemia, weight control should begin immediately. When BMI exceeds 25, it falls into the “obese” category; if it goes above 27, it meets the clinical diagnosis of obesity, which requires early management. Delaying intervention not only harms health but can also make future treatment more difficult. Is losing weight just about eating less and exercising more? Why use weight loss injections? Because every person’s body composition and causes of weight gain vary, weight management must be personalized. For some people, metabolic or hormonal factors may prevent them from reaching their target weight through diet and exercise alone. That’s why the first step in weight management should always be a comprehensive medical evaluation. A doctor can assess the severity and underlying causes of obesity, tailor a customized plan, and closely monitor progress to help you lose weight effectively and safely.With advances in modern medicine, weight loss injections have become one of the most revolutionary tools for weight management today. Generation Injection frequency Main ingredient First generation Daily GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) Second generation Weekly GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) Third generation Weekly GLP-1 + GIP (Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) Weight loss injection Q&A ❓ Q1: Are weight loss injections really effective? How many injections are needed?A1: According to clinical trial data from pharmaceutical companies, weight loss injections can effectively suppress appetite and reduce calorie intake. Most users see noticeable results within about three months. There is no fixed total number of injections — it depends on individual goals and progress. Consistent healthy eating and exercise remain important; if old habits return after stopping, weight may rebound. Q2: Do weight loss injections have side effects?A2: Common side effects include dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. These symptoms usually improve as the body adjusts. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase under medical supervision to minimize discomfort. Q3: Who should avoid using weight loss injections?A3: They are not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, anyone allergic to the ingredients, or people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome, pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal disorders, or impaired kidney function. Q4: How can I choose the most suitable type of weight loss injection?A4: The best approach is to consult a qualified doctor. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on your BMI, health conditions, medical history, weight-loss goals, preferred injection frequency, and budget. The most important thing about using weight loss injections Always start with a professional medical evaluation. Your doctor will personalize a treatment plan based on your health, goals, and lifestyle. Under medical supervision — combined with your own effort — you can achieve safe and sustainable weight loss. Summary: Three key elements of successful weight loss Professional medical guidance: Evaluation and continuous adjustment by your doctor. Lifestyle cooperation: Healthy diet and exercise habits to maximize results and prevent rebound. Ongoing monitoring: Track your weight, side effects, and overall health; schedule regular follow-up visits. If you’re struggling with weight issues and want to learn more about weight management or the latest generation of weight loss injection treatments, we’re here to help. You’re welcome to book a professional consultation so we can design a personalized weight loss plan tailored just for you! Book now or contact us:WhatsApp 96695760 or call 2371 6400 2026.2.20 
Maintaining an ideal body weight: the real key to beauty? Many people, when talking about "beauty," first think of skincare products, medical aesthetic treatments, or makeup techniques. But from a medical perspective, body weight and shape often reflect more truly whether a person is genuinely "taking good care of themselves" than any external pampering. When the body maintains a healthy, appropriate weight range, blood circulation is smooth, metabolism is stable, and skin tone, mental state, and overall posture naturally display freshness, vitality, and confidence—this kind of health glow radiating from within is the most lasting and natural beauty effect. The so-called "ideal weight" is not about pursuing extreme slimness or a "paper-thin" figure, but a healthy range that fits your age, height, sex, and body fat ratio (for example, referencing the appropriate BMI interval of 18.5–23, adjusted according to age and personal conditions). Medical research shows that long-term overweight increases cardiovascular burden, affects blood sugar and blood lipid control, adds joint stress, and raises the risk of metabolic syndrome and chronic diseases; it also tends to cause water retention, fatigue, dull or oily skin issues. In contrast, maintaining an ideal weight helps improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, making skin more likely to appear naturally rosy, with clearer and more defined contours, and even helps reduce obesity-related skin problems. If simply starting from a "weight loss" mindset, it often brings stress and rebound risks; medically, it's better to shift focus to "helping the body return to a healthy balanced state," achieved through sustainable lifestyle adjustments:Increase daily walking volume (e.g., a few thousand more steps, less elevator use) to boost cardiopulmonary function and blood circulation, improving dull or sallow complexion issues.Increase vegetable proportion per meal, reduce fried and highly processed foods, helping gradually shrink abdominal fat while stabilizing skin oiliness and reducing acne or inflammatory reactions.Build regular routines and go to bed earlier, cut down late nights, aiding hormonal balance, lowering stress index, thereby reducing water retention and emotional eating impulses. Maintaining an ideal weight has never been just a numerical pursuit, but a long-term responsible attitude toward the body. As you gradually build balanced diet, moderate exercise, and good lifestyle habits, not only can you improve health indicators (like blood pressure, blood sugar, blood lipids), but also achieve more stable skin condition, brighter complexion, and more vibrant outward presence. When it comes to weight loss, if obesity is relatively severe, current latest medical technology can consider using weight-loss injections, but they must be used under doctor's guidance. If you have overweight issues and want to try weight-loss injections to improve health, it's recommended to first consult a professional doctor, get assessed, and then decide. Weight management is a long-term matter, safety is most important! If you have any weight management-related questions or want to book related medical guidance, feel free to WhatsApp 9669 5760 or call the hotline 2371 6400 for inquiries. 2026.1.13 
What’s the difference between getting a weight-loss injection from a doctor vs. self-injecting? The so-called “weight-loss injections” or “weight-loss pens” currently on the market mainly refer to GLP-1 receptor agonists (such as Saxenda, Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro, etc.). These medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but have gained popularity in recent years due to their significant weight loss effects. Because weight-loss pens are injectable medications intended for self-administration, many people mistakenly believe they can inject themselves without medical supervision. However, using them without a doctor’s assessment and guidance poses considerable risks. In Hong Kong, these are prescription-only drugs (Class I dangerous drugs). They can only be legally obtained and used with a doctor’s prescription and supervision. Purchasing, possessing, or using them without a valid prescription is illegal. The Department of Health has repeatedly warned the public not to buy such products online or through unregulated channels, as they may be counterfeit, substandard, or improperly stored. Below is a comparison between “getting a weight-loss injection from a doctor (with medical guidance)” and “self-injecting (after illegal purchase).” Category Doctor-administered (under medical supervision) Self-injected (illegally purchased online or as parallel import) Legality Entirely legal. The doctor prescribes and monitors usage. Illegal! Under the Hong Kong Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, purchase/possession/use without a prescription is prohibited, punishable by a fine up to HKD 100,000 and imprisonment up to 2 years. Source of medication Genuine manufacturer’s products (e.g., Novo Nordisk or Eli Lilly), stored and transported under strict temperature control. Possible parallel imports, counterfeit, or expired products. Improper storage (no cold chain) may render them ineffective or unsafe. Dosage and treatment plan Doctor tailors the dosage and escalation plan based on BMI, health condition, and lab results, starting low to minimize side effects. Self-decided dosage, easily overdosed or underdosed without professional adjustment, increasing risk. Safety and monitoring Doctor screens for contraindications (e.g., family history of thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, severe kidney disease, pregnancy) and monitors liver/kidney function and blood sugar regularly. No professional screening, may overlook contraindications; side effects may be ignored or mismanaged (e.g., severe nausea, pancreatitis, hypoglycemia). Side effect management Doctor teaches proper injection technique and methods to manage GI discomfort (e.g., dosage adjustment, diet modification). Prompt medical help available if problems occur. Common GI side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation) often unmanaged. Severe cases may lead to pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or thyroid tumor risks. Effectiveness and long-term management Combined with diet and exercise, results are more stable. Doctor monitors progress and prevents rebound weight gain after stopping. High chance of rebound weight gain (due to appetite return). Without lifestyle guidance, results are short-lived. Cost Higher (each pen costs several thousand HKD, self-paid), but includes doctor consultations and follow-ups. Appears cheaper (online prices often half of retail), but risks of counterfeit or degraded drugs make long-term costs higher. Overall risk Low (under doctor’s supervision). High (risk of fake drugs, wrong dosage, unmanaged complications, and legal consequences). Why professional supervision matters From the comparison, it’s clear why medical supervision is strongly recommended. You should first consult a general practitioner or endocrinologist for an assessment (including blood tests, BMI measurement, and medical history review). The doctor will determine if you’re suitable for the medication and teach proper subcutaneous injection techniques. Nowadays, most weight-loss injections are pre-filled pens, making home administration simple—but remember: the medication must still be prescribed by a doctor, and regular follow-ups are essential. When used under proper medical monitoring along with a balanced low-calorie diet and regular exercise, many people can safely achieve 5–20% weight loss, depending on the medication and individual factors, while also improving blood glucose, cholesterol, and cardiovascular health. Never buy these medications online or from unauthorized sources—they may be counterfeit or parallel imports, and there have been multiple prosecutions in Hong Kong for illegal sales. Also, keep in mind that weight-loss injections are not magic bullets; best results come from pairing them with healthy eating, regular exercise, and long-term lifestyle changes. Otherwise, regaining weight after stopping the medication is very common—even exceeding previous levels. If you are struggling with excess weight and considering weight-loss injections for health improvement, it’s best to consult a qualified doctor first and decide after a proper evaluation. Weight management is a long-term journey, and safety should always come first. For any inquiries or to book a professional consultation, please WhatsApp 9669 5760 or call 2371 6400. 2026.1.13 
Is weight loss effective for fatty liver patients? Over 25% of Hong Kong adults suffer from fatty liver, with around 60% linked to obesity! The latest weight loss injections (GLP-1 class drugs) offer major hope for fatty liver patients—not just powerful weight reduction, but directly burning away liver fat, bringing long-elusive relief to thickened livers. Weight Loss Injections' Triple Attack on Fatty Liver 1st Strike: Powerful Weight Loss Saves the Liver These injections suppress brain hunger signals and slow gastric emptying, automatically cutting daily calorie intake by 20-30%. For every 5-10% body weight lost, liver fat drops 30-50%, especially targeting the most dangerous abdominal visceral fat! 2nd Strike: Direct Liver Metabolism Overhaul They boost liver cell fat breakdown (fatty acid oxidation), reduce the liver's own sugar production, and improve insulin sensitivity—clearing fat buildup from the inside out. 3rd Strike: Cardiovascular Double Protection They simultaneously improve blood lipids (triglycerides drop ~20%), reduce vascular inflammation, and help prevent strokes and heart disease—one injection tackling liver + heart health! Who Benefits Most from Weight Loss Injections for Fatty Liver? Suitable Groups: BMI ≥27 + fatty liver (even with normal liver enzymes) Waist circumference: men >90cm / women >80cm (visceral fat type) Metabolic issues (any 2 of: high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol) Tried countless methods but can't lose weight 3 Key Precautions Before Use Contraindications: Family history of thyroid cancer, severe kidney/liver disease, pregnantHong Kong Regulations: Class 1 dangerous drugs—online purchase without doctor's prescription is illegal!Essential Monitoring: Liver function tests + ultrasound every 3 month Weight loss injections aren't a "quick-fix miracle" for fatty liver, but combined with diet and exercise, they represent Hong Kong liver patients' biggest breakthrough in a decade! Liver health starts changing today! If you have any questions about weight loss injections or would like to make an appointment, feel free to WhatsApp 9669 5760 or call 2371 6400. 2026.1.12 
A comprehensive comparison of Hong Kong weight loss injections: Saxenda vs Mounjaro vs Ozempic vs Wegovy Hong Kong's weight loss injection craze has swept the scene in recent years, with GLP-1 class injectable drugs becoming a popular choice for busy professionals and those with stubborn obesity. These medications achieve non-surgical weight loss by suppressing appetite and stabilizing blood sugar, though they come at a hefty price and require strict medical supervision. Popular Weight Loss Injection Comparison Feature Saxenda Mounjaro Ozempic Wegovy Active Ingredient Liraglutide Tirzepatide Semaglutide Semaglutide Injection Frequency Once daily Once weekly Once weekly Once weekly Average Weight Loss Effec 5-10% 15-20% 10-15% 12-17% Weight Loss Mechanism Single GLP-1: appetite suppression + delayed gastric emptying Dual GLP-1+GIP: potent blood sugar control + fat reduction Long-acting GLP-1: excellent glycemic control Higher-dose GLP-1: targets severe obesity Overall, these four weight loss injections each have strengths and limitations—it's not about picking "the strongest one for you," but selecting the best option based on BMI, presence of diabetes or cardiovascular risks, preferred injection frequency, and budget, all under a doctor's tailored guidance. As prescription drugs, they carry potential risks like gastrointestinal upset, pancreatitis, and gallbladder issues, so comprehensive health checks and professional evaluation are essential before starting, with regular follow-ups to monitor key indicators during use. Pairing them with healthy diet, regular exercise, and sleep management—treating the injections as a supportive tool rather than sole reliance—ensures safe, sustainable weight loss while genuinely enhancing metabolic health and quality of life. If you have any questions about weight loss injections or would like to make an appointment, feel free to WhatsApp 9669 5760 or call 2371 6400. 2026.1.13 
Precautions for getting weight loss injections Before undergoing weight-loss injections, a comprehensive assessment of individual health conditions and long-term effects is essential to avoid serious adverse consequences due to immediate results. Suitable Individuals and Contraindications Weight-loss injections are not suitable for everyone. They are absolutely contraindicated for individuals with gastrointestinal ulcers, kidney failure, a history of pancreatitis, or a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma. Pregnant women, women planning pregnancy, and breastfeeding women are prohibited from using them. Those with a BMI below 27 and no comorbidities have limited effectiveness and higher risks. Individuals over 65 years of age, and those with heart disease or severe liver disease require special medical permission. All users must undergo blood tests for evaluation beforehand. BMI Calculator: https://humanhealth.com.hk/en/healthinfo/category/bmi/ Strict Legal Regulation in Hong Kong Weight-loss injections are classified as Class 1 dangerous drugs in Hong Kong. Purchasing, possessing, or selling them without a doctor's prescription violates the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, with a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and imprisonment for 2 years for both the buyer and seller. The prevalence of counterfeit drugs online poses serious safety risks. Drugs without Hong Kong drug registration numbers, or of unknown origin are subject to serious safety hazards. Pharmaceutical manufacturers have reported these issues to the Department of Health and Customs. Prescriptions from licensed doctors are mandatory. Serious Side Effects and Sequelae Gastrointestinal Reactions: Approximately 40% of users experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation initially.Nervous System: Dizziness and fatigue are common.Hypoglycemia: Occurs in approximately 23% of diabetic patients, accompanied by sweating and palpitations.Injection Site: Local redness, swelling, itching, or mild pain.Relief Methods: Most symptoms subside within several weeks. Start with a low dose, eat small, frequent meals, and maintain a bland diet. Serious Side Effects and Sequelae Acute Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain and persistent vomiting, requiring emergency treatment.Gallbladder Disease: Gallstone formation, right upper quadrant pain, and indigestion.Cardiocardiac Problems: Irregular heartbeat, palpitations, or abnormal blood pressure.Severe Allergic Reactions: Difficulty breathing, Facial swelling, generalized rash Mood changes: Depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies (reported rate 1-5%) Long-term risks: Thyroid C-cell tumor: Warning in animal studies, indicated by a black border on the packaging Deteriorating kidney function: Increased renal burden for long-term users Recurrence of pancreatitis: Increased risk of recurrent attacks Weight rebound: Rapid return to original weight within months of discontinuation Nutritional imbalance: Appetite suppression leading to vitamin and mineral deficiencies Pre- and post-use management Before use: Check liver and kidney function and baseline blood glucose; learn proper injection and storage ; record weight weekly, follow up monthly for blood indicators; consider discontinuing medication if weight loss is less than 5% within 3 months. After discontinuation: Maintain a low-calorie diet, 150 minutes of exercise per week to prevent rebound, and have regular checkups to monitor endocrine changes. Long-term health management is better than short-term injection dependence. If you have any questions about weight loss injections or would like to make an appointment, feel free to WhatsApp 9669 5760 or call 2371 6400. 2026.1.12 
What are weight loss injections? Why can they help with weight loss? Weight-loss injections are a type of prescription weight-loss medication administered subcutaneously. They mimic gut hormones to help control weight. In recent years, they have gained widespread discussion in Hong Kong due to their popularity in South Korea, but their use requires caution and medical supervision. The Origin and Background of Weight-Loss Injections Weight-loss injections did not initially appear for weight loss. They evolved from injectable medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. During research on gut hormones, the medical community discovered that certain substances, in addition to helping control blood sugar, also affect the appetite center in the brain, making the body feel full more easily. Subsequently, pharmaceutical companies improved upon these gut hormones to create more stable injectable formulations. These were first applied to diabetic patients, and many patients showed significant weight loss while controlling their blood sugar. This led to clinical studies specifically targeting weight management. Once research confirmed that these injections could help overweight or obese individuals lose weight under safety monitoring, some products were officially approved by international regulatory agencies for long-term weight management. In recent years, they have become widely known due to promotion in South Korea and on social media platforms. Proper Usage Instructions Before use, a doctor must assess your health condition and BMI to prescribe the medication. Start with a low dose, once daily via subcutaneous injection, gradually increasing the dose weekly until a maintenance dose is reached. This allows the body to gradually adapt and reduces the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort. Injection time is flexible, not limited to morning or evening, and can be performed at any time. Recommended injection sites are areas with thicker subcutaneous fat, such as the abdomen around the navel, the outer front thigh, or the outer upper arm. Avoid areas with thin skin, such as the cheeks, chin, or wrists. Each pen can be used over several days; always use a new needle and rotate injection sites each time to prevent infection. Regular monitoring of blood sugar, weight, and side effects is necessary throughout the treatment. A low-calorie, balanced diet and moderate exercise are essential for optimal results. After discontinuing the medication, maintain healthy habits to prevent weight rebound. In Hong Kong, all weight-loss injections are classified as Category 1 dangerous drugs. Purchasing or possessing them without a doctor's prescription is a violation of the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, punishable by a fine of HK$100,000 and imprisonment for up to 2 years. Always use these medications through legitimate medical channels. If you have any questions about weight loss injections or would like to make an appointment, feel free to WhatsApp 9669 5760 or call 2371 6400. 2026.1.12