Weight-loss injections have become harder to access as they are now classified as ‘high-risk’ medications, leading to stricter regulations for online purchases. The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has informed online pharmacies that they must now conduct comprehensive consultations with patients rather than relying solely on questionnaires to prescribe weight-loss jabs like Wegovy or Mounjaro. This change aims to ensure the safe and appropriate prescription of these injections by verifying the patient’s body mass index (BMI) through video consultations, in-person examinations, or by accessing medical records rather than through email chats or photo submissions.
The GPhC’s decision follows concerns regarding the unsafe prescribing and distribution of medicines online, particularly weight-loss injections, with reports suggesting that some individuals are obtaining these drugs without undergoing proper evaluations. Certain online pharmacies have even set targets for processing prescriptions per hour, neglecting the necessary checks. The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) raised alarms after witnessing instances where individuals with a history of eating disorders or low body weight were inaccurately prescribed weight-loss medications. The updated guidelines now require prescribers to independently verify weight, height, and BMI using different methods such as video calls, in-person consultations, or by contacting other healthcare providers like GPs.
Moreover, pharmacies are instructed to request details of the patient’s GP and obtain consent to share prescription information with them. Any decision to forego a two-way consultation with the patient must be documented, with clinicians required to provide justification for their choice. Furthermore, prescribers must actively collaborate with other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care to ensure comprehensive support. Failure to comply with these guidelines could result in enforcement actions by the GPhC, including investigations and potential sanctions on the pharmacy.
The revised regulations also require online pharmacies to adhere to advertising and promotional standards set forth by law. The GPhC is collaborating with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) to address inappropriate marketing practices in the pharmaceutical industry. These changes are significant as weight-loss injections, classified as GLP-1 receptor agonists, play a crucial role in managing obesity and are also available through the NHS and private online pharmacies for individuals with high BMIs.
Chairman of the NPA, Nick Kaye, emphasised the importance of patient safety in the prescription of weight-loss injections, noting that most pharmacies maintain high standards of practice to support patients in achieving healthy weights. Pharmacists at Pharmacy2U, the UK’s largest digital pharmacy, have expressed support for the enhanced patient safety measures, affirming their compliance with the updated GPhC guidelines. These developments aim to address concerns surrounding inappropriate online medication supply practices and safeguard patients from potential risks associated with unregulated sellers.
In conclusion, the heightened scrutiny on weight-loss injections underscores the critical need for robust regulations to protect public health and ensure the responsible prescription of high-risk medications. By implementing stringent consultation requirements and promoting transparency in prescribing practices, online pharmacies can enhance patient safety and maintain regulatory compliance in the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. It is essential for individuals seeking weight-loss injections to engage with reputable providers and prioritise their health and well-being when considering these treatments.