Mysimba, an older oral weight-loss medicine, may be overlooked amid the popularity of newer GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, according to obesity specialist Alexander Miras. It generally produces less weight loss, but experts say it could suit people whose health would benefit from a more modest reduction, particularly those with cravings or binge-eating patterns.

Mysimba combines naltrexone, which affects the brain’s reward system, and bupropion, which can reduce appetite; it is licensed in the UK for obesity or overweight with related health problems and is available through private clinics. Trials found users lost about 8 per cent of their starting weight, compared with around 22 per cent for participants on the highest Mounjaro doses. The article gives monthly prices of £115 for Mysimba and £179–£339 for Mounjaro at Superdrug, and notes that Mysimba can cause uncommon but significant side effects, including suicidal thoughts, headaches, irritability and insomnia.