The regulations surrounding the sale of online weight loss medication such as Wegovy and Mounjaro is changing in the UK, and for the better – with new measures seeking to protect patient safety.
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has introduced strengthened safeguards to prevent people from receiving weight loss medicines that may not be clinically appropriate for them. This move aims to ensure that weight loss drugs, such as GLP-1 injections, are only prescribed with adequate oversight from healthcare professionals – and to people who truly do need them.
Online pharmacies will now have to take additional steps before selling these medications. The guidance makes it clear that prescribers can no longer rely solely on an online questionnaire to determine a patient’s suitability for weight loss injections. Instead, they must independently verify key details, such as a patient’s weight, height, and body mass index (BMI).
This can be done through direct communication with the patient, accessing their clinical records, or contacting their GP. These changes seek to prevent the misuse of weight loss medications and ensure their safe and appropriate use.
Why are these new rules necessary?
Weight loss medications like semaglutide and liraglutide have proven to be effective tools for managing obesity. However, without the right medical guidance, they can pose risks. There have been concerns about patients obtaining these medications through online services that lack proper medical oversight. Some individuals have been able to provide false information to gain access to prescriptions, potentially putting their health at risk.
Duncan Rudkin, Chief Executive at the GPhC, said that online pharmacies must only supply medication if the prescriber has conducted an appropriate consultation and verified all necessary medical details. Additionally, the regulations now require online pharmacies to implement stronger safeguards, particularly for high-risk medications, and establish clear communication channels between prescribers and patients.
What does this mean for people considering weight loss injections?
For those considering GLP-1 injections, these new rules may seem a frustrating barrier – but they simply reinforce the importance of seeking a trusted, clinically supervised service.
Well by Vertis has always prioritised patient safety by offering weight loss treatments with direct support from UK-registered GPs and specialist nurses. Unlike online pharmacies that have only recently been forced to introduce video consultations, Well by Vertis has always recognised the necessity of expert guidance. Patients receive comprehensive support, including consultations, ongoing monitoring, and professional advice on lifestyle changes to ensure long-term success.
Stephanie Smith, Lead Nurse at Well by Vertis, said, “The Well by Vertis approach ensures that individuals do not just receive a prescription but are guided through a medically supervised weight loss journey. This includes regular check-ins, personalised advice, and the reassurance that their treatment is both safe and effective.”
How to access safe weight loss injections
With the introduction of these new rules, those looking to start weight loss injections should take extra care when choosing a provider. It is essential to avoid unregulated sources and instead opt for a reputable service that offers medical oversight. Patients should look for providers that:
- Require thorough medical assessments before prescribing medication.
- Offer ongoing support from qualified healthcare professionals.
- Conduct video consultations to discuss treatment plans and any concerns.
- Provide accurate information about the medication, including potential side effects and how to use it safely.
At Well by Vertis, patients receive expert-led care throughout their weight loss. Our service not only provides access to clinically approved treatments but also ensures that every patient receives personalised guidance to help them achieve their health goals safely and sustainably.
The future of weight loss treatment in the UK
As regulations change, the focus is shifting away from just weight loss – towards responsible prescribing and comprehensive patient support. While online pharmacies must now improve their practices to meet these new requirements, Well by Vertis has been ahead of the curve, already implementing these safeguards as standard practice. This means patients can trust they are receiving safe, regulated, and effective care.
So, what do the new regulations mean for you? Simply put, they mean more safety and better care. For those considering weight loss injections, the message is clear: medical supervision matters.
Are you ready to begin your weight loss journey? We’re ready to help.