In response to rising concerns about the misuse and overuse of obesity drugs, the UK’s pharmacy regulator has introduced stricter guidelines for online pharmacies selling weight loss medications such as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro.
On Monday, the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), which sets standards for both online and physical pharmacies, announced new requirements for online pharmacies dispensing weight loss injections. From now on, online sellers will no longer be allowed to rely solely on online questionnaires to provide these drugs, according to reports.
The GPhC emphasized that pharmacies must independently verify patient information before prescribing these medications. The regulator stated that “pharmacies should not rely solely on online questionnaires but should instead use a method of two-way communication.” This method will ensure that patients can ask questions and prescribers gather the necessary information for safe prescribing.
Verification processes may include video consultations or in-person meetings to assess patients’ body mass index (BMI). Pharmacies will also be required to cross-check patient details with other medical records or doctor referrals.
Pharmacies that do not follow these new guidelines could face investigations, inspections, and other enforcement actions by the GPhC.
The announcement comes amid growing concerns over the safety and overuse of obesity medications. In December 2024, officials from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted in a journal article that while weight loss injections can be “transformative” for obesity treatment, they should not be relied upon alone. The WHO called for a comprehensive approach to obesity, stressing the importance of accessible, affordable, and sustainable health services for prevention and treatment.
Stephen Powis, National Medical Director for England’s NHS, also voiced concern in June 2024, noting that many people are misusing weight loss injections for cosmetic purposes, treating them as a “quick fix” for weight loss. He stressed that medications like Ozempic and Wegovy should only be used by individuals prescribed them for obesity or diabetes, warning against their misuse for non-medical purposes.
