Interview overview
Dr Harriet Treacy, co-founder and CEO of Beyondbmi, joined Dublin Today on Q102 to discuss the weight-loss medications now available in Ireland — including the newly arrived Mounjaro injection.
Available medications
Dr Treacy categorised treatments into two groups:
- GLP-1 medications: Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro. They act primarily in the brain to make people feel fuller for longer — not in the stomach.
- Non-GLP-1 medications: Mysimba and Orlistat, which have been available longer. Mysimba contains naltrexone and bupropion, which reduce eating pleasure to discourage overeating.
Common side effects
The most frequently reported side effect is nausea, affecting about two in ten people. It is generally mild to moderate, and is often linked to titration — ramping up the dose. Slower dose escalation, with clinical support, helps manage symptoms.
Mounjaro details
Mounjaro became available in Irish pharmacies on the day of the interview. Unlike Ozempic, it contains both GLP-1 and GIP components — another satiety hormone — providing a dual-action mechanism for enhanced appetite suppression.
Supply and safety concerns
Medication shortages have driven some patients toward unregulated sources, including cross-border purchases. Better supply control supports safe, legal access to these treatments.
The distinction between obtaining a prescription and getting comprehensive care is critical. Sustainable outcomes require a multidisciplinary, long-term treatment approach — not the next ‘best’ drug.
UK regulatory differences
In the UK, online pharmacies legally ship medications directly to patients, sometimes based on a basic questionnaire and patient-selected dosage. Ireland prohibits this practice, offering greater patient protection.
Beyondbmi’s approach
Beyondbmi provides an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach to obesity treatment through an online model — ensuring equal access across Ireland. The team includes doctors, dietitians, health coaches, clinical nurse specialists and psychologists.
Dr Treacy founded Beyondbmi after seeing patients in emergency medicine receive only basic advice without structured medical support.
Final message
The conversation should shift from weight loss toward health gain. Focusing solely on numerical targets encourages cycle-chasing. Sustainable habits yield lasting, meaningful results that go beyond just losing weight.
Treatment with the support you need
A multidisciplinary team with you for the long term — not just a prescription.
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