Long waits for National Health Service (NHS) weight-loss services are pushing some people to buy potentially unsafe weight-loss jabs online, the UK’s top GP has warned.
Some patients seeking quick solutions are turning to unregulated retailers who sell weight-loss drugs online, the chairwoman of the Royal College of GPs, Kamila Hawthorne, told the PA Media news agency.
Hawthorne warned these drugs, often bought as pre-filled injection pens or as kits that require preparation at home, can be risky and lack the essential support that comes with proper medical supervision.
“You don’t always know the provenance of the drugs that you’re buying unless it’s coming from an accredited company that’s properly regulated, and some of these places are not fully regulated,” Hawthorne said. “So I think I would definitely be counselling the public not to do that privately, if they can possibly help it, and go to their GP.”
“These may contain toxins and other ingredients that could cause real harm, and you may even end up in hospital,” the MHRA said.
The regulator’s deputy director of criminal enforcement, Andy Morling, said that people thinking about “shedding a little excess weight” may choose to opt for weight loss medication without a prescription.
Obesity Challenge
Obesity remains a significant public health challenge in the UK and is associated with life-limiting conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers, according to the NHS.As of 2022, approximately 29 percent of adults in England are classified as obese, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above.
This marks a substantial increase from 15 percent in 1993. Over 60 percent of adults are either overweight or obese, indicating that nearly two-thirds of the adult population faces weight-related health challenges.
As more people struggle with obesity, the demand for effective and safe weight management solutions is growing, while waiting times remain extensive.
Weight-Loss Medications on the NHS
Currently, the NHS offers a few weight-loss injections, including Mounjaro and Wegovy, for people who meet specific criteria.These medications, known as glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, help manage blood sugar and support weight loss. However, some companies are advertising unlicensed medicines online, raising further safety concerns.
MHRA said that the decision to use any weight-management product should be made by a qualified healthcare professional after a thorough consultation to determine its suitability for the individual.
Hawthorne advised the public to check that any online pharmacy is properly registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said that weight loss drugs are important for those who need them most, while also recognising that they are not substitutes for a healthy diet and exercise.