Understanding experiences of using injectable weight loss medications
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding the motivations and psychosocial experiences of individuals within NHS Weight Management Services using injectable weight loss medications: A qualitative study.
IRAS ID
360414
Contact name
Amy Blackley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 2 days
Research summary
Research has shown that interest and use of injectable weight loss medications (e.g., Ozempic) have increased. However, there is limited research on experience of using these medications for weight loss. Recent research has found both positive and negative experiences. However, most research has been based on using these medications for diabetes management with limited research on using these medications for weight loss. As NHS Scotland are in the process of prescribing injectable weight loss medications in Weight Management Services, it is important to understand people’s experiences of using these.
This study aims to develop an understanding of people’s experiences of using injectable weight loss medications. This includes understanding the psychological and social experiences of using injectable weight loss medications as well as the motivations to use these medications. Participants will be recruited from multiple NHS Scotland Weight Management Services including people that are using or have used (within the last year) injectable weight loss medications. NHS staff within these services will identify interested participant who will then be given more information on the study.
After getting informed consent, the researcher will invite around 10-15 participants to separate interviews about their experiences of using injectable weight loss medications including why they are using these and their psychological or social experiences. The interviews will take place either online, in person or by telephone and will last between 30-60 minutes. This information will be analysed using thematic analysis to identify themes across the interviews.
A summary of what the study has found will be shared with NHS Weight Management staff, participants and published in academia. This study hopes to provide a deeper understanding of experiences of using injectable weight loss medications to support individual needs, promote person-centred care and provide further information about the role of psychology.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2
REC reference
26/NS/0043
Date of REC Opinion
20 May 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion