Pharmacists are sounding the alarm over the increasing online sale of weight-loss injections, warning that the current regulatory framework does not sufficiently safeguard patient safety. The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has urged for stricter regulations to ensure that drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro are not accessed by individuals who may not be suitable candidates for such treatments, such as those with a history of eating disorders or those already at a healthy weight.
Weight-loss injections, often referred to as GLP-1 receptor agonists, have become a popular treatment option for obesity, with many patients turning to online platforms to purchase these drugs. While these medications can be effective in reducing food cravings and helping individuals with a BMI of 30 or more, experts warn that they come with significant risks. These include potential side effects like nausea, gallstones, and stomach upsets, which can be severe for some individuals.
The NPA has raised concerns that the current system of prescribing these injections often facilitated through online pharmacies lacks proper patient consultation. The association argues that a thorough, two-way consultation should be mandatory, ensuring that patients undergo an in-depth medical assessment, including a review of their medical history. A minimum consultation time of 20 minutes is recommended to assess whether the patient truly needs the medication and to rule out any contraindications that may pose a risk to their health.
Nick Kaye, Chairman of the NPA, highlighted the importance of making clinical decisions without the influence of financial incentives. He emphasized that while weight-loss injections can play a crucial role in treating obesity, they must be prescribed as part of a carefully managed treatment program tailored to patients who require the most support. Kaye noted, “We are concerned that the current regulations allow some patients to inappropriately access weight-loss injections without proper consultation or examination of historical medical records.”
The NPA’s plea comes amid an anticipated surge in demand for weight-loss injections, with reports indicating that many individuals are seeking them as a solution to lifestyle issues rather than as a medical necessity. Ashley Cohen, a spokesperson from the NPA, expressed concern about the “worried well” individuals with a healthy weight or those looking for a quick fix to improve their appearance. These people may be using weight-loss injections as a lifestyle choice, despite the fact that these medications are intended for those suffering from obesity.
Cohen also warned about the dangers of purchasing weight-loss injections from unregulated online sellers, who may offer counterfeit drugs that could harm consumers. The NPA has previously advised patients to avoid such sellers and to only buy medications from legitimate pharmacies that adhere to regulatory standards.
To ensure the safe use of these high-risk medications, Cohen stressed the importance of regular reviews by healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, to monitor patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed. This ongoing oversight helps mitigate potential risks associated with the medications and ensures that patients are using them in a way that is both safe and effective.
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), which oversees pharmacy regulations in Great Britain, has acknowledged the growing concerns surrounding online pharmacies. A spokesperson confirmed that the GPhC requires all pharmacies both physical and online to ensure that services are delivered in a manner that protects patient health and safety. The council is in the process of updating its guidance on the safe provision of weight-loss drugs, including additional safeguards to prevent misuse and over-prescription of these high-risk medications.
As weight-loss jabs become more widely available, experts agree that a comprehensive approach is essential to prevent misuse and ensure that patients are receiving appropriate care. Proper regulation and patient education will be crucial in balancing the potential benefits of these treatments with the need for patient safety.
