The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has issued a new warning against the sale of weight loss injections online, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to protect patients.
The NPA has raised concerns that individuals with eating disorders or those with low body weight may be inappropriately prescribed weight loss drugs, jeopardizing their health.
Nick Kaye, chairman of the NPA, expressed his worries to the PA news agency, stating that while obesity is a major public health issue in the UK, current regulations permit some patients to access weight loss injections without proper medical consultation and thorough evaluation of medical history.
Rising Demand for Weight Loss Injections
Interest in weight loss injections is on the rise, partly due to the NHS introducing Wegovy in late 2023. The public health body plans to extend its coverage to include Mounjaro in March 2025.
Public awareness has also been heightened by celebrities adopting Ozempic, a diabetes medication, for weight loss purposes. However, this trend has brought about concerns over safe and appropriate usage.
Limited NHS Rollout
Although Wegovy has been available to eligible patients in the NHS since last year, its rollout has been slow. Only a small fraction of the 3.4 million eligible patients in England have received the drug.
The NHS faces constraints in expanding access, as providing it to everyone immediately would strain its finances severely, according to the BBC.
This shortage might drive more individuals to seek private healthcare providers for weight loss injections. However, the Risk Management Authority (MHRA) and the NPA have repeatedly warned against purchasing these medications without professional medical guidance.
Understanding Eligibility and Safety
If you are considering weight loss injections, it is crucial to determine your eligibility and understand the potential risks.
NHS Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for NHS weight loss injections, patients must meet specific criteria:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher
- Have a BMI of 30 to 34.9 with a secondary condition that requires referral to specialist weight management services
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
Wegovy, a brand name for semaglutide, is prescribed for obesity and weight management, distinct from Ozempic, which is used primarily for type 2 diabetes. Ozempic should not be used solely for weight loss.
Wegovy is administered as a weekly injection and is recommended in conjunction with diet and exercise.
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
Mounjaro, approved for weight loss and management, functions by regulating appetite and suppressing hunger. It should be used alongside dietary changes and physical activity.
Mounjaro comes in a pre-filled injection pen and is injected weekly, starting at 2.5mg and increasing to 15mg over several weeks.
Women taking oral contraceptives might need to use alternative methods of birth control, as Mounjaro can affect the efficacy of contraceptive pills.
Private Prescriptions: A Cautionary Note
Individuals can acquire Wegovy and Mounjaro through private prescriptions, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and receive ongoing support from medical professionals.
The NPA has previously issued warnings about the risk of unlicensed online sales. They advise consulting a general practitioner (GP) about private prescriptions for weight loss medications.
MHRA Guidance
The MHRA has stated that when used according to their guidelines, Wegovy and Mounjaro are safe and effective, but pose certain risks.
“When used appropriately within approved indications, these medications offer significant benefits to patients,” the MHRA explained, emphasizing the importance of professional oversight.
Conclusion
The surge in demand for weight loss injections underscores the need for responsible healthcare practices and robust regulatory frameworks. By consulting fully qualified healthcare providers and adhering to prescribed guidelines, patients can make informed decisions that promote their health and well-being.
For those considering weight loss injections, it is essential to undergo proper evaluations and follow doctor’s instructions to reap the benefits while minimizing risks.
What do you think about the availability and safety of weight loss injections? Share your thoughts in the comments below!