Online Pharmacies and Weight Loss Drugs: Why Regulation Matters
The demand for weight loss medications, such as semaglutide-based drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, has surged in recent years. This surge has been driven by celebrity endorsements, social media hype, and the rising popularity of private weight management programmes. But with increased demand comes increased risk, particularly when it comes to buying these medications online.
The current situation:
In the wake of ongoing shortages, many people are turning to unregulated online sellers in search of quick fixes. However, the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has warned that this could lead to a dangerous "explosion in the unlicensed sale of medication online." Counterfeit weight loss jabs are on the rise, with BBC News reporting hospitalisations linked to potentially fake pens, some resulting in serious conditions like hypoglycaemic shock.
While weight loss medications can be effective when prescribed appropriately, they are also high-risk and should never be taken without proper medical oversight. That’s why regulation matters.
Regulating online providers:
In the UK, online healthcare providers - including online pharmacies - must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) if they are providing regulated health services. This ensures they are inspected regularly, follow strict safety guidelines, and operate with transparency and accountability.
CQC registration means:
Safe and appropriate prescribing in line with national guidelines
Adequate insurance and qualified healthcare professionals
Robust safeguarding procedures and patient care policies
A commitment to learning, feedback, and improvement
Unfortunately, some providers bypass CQC regulation by operating outside the UK or using pharmacists to prescribe medicines in a way that skirts the rules. This can leave patients exposed to substandard care, or worse, dangerous outcomes.
The NPA has also raised concerns that current guidance from the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) doesn’t go far enough in protecting patients. They argue that greater two-way consultation is essential, especially when prescribing high-risk medicines such as weight loss injections. Simply relying on online questionnaires, without access to full clinical records or meaningful conversations, can result in the wrong patients receiving the wrong medications.
At Affinity Care Advisory, we support high standards in healthcare delivery and the proper regulation of all providers, online or otherwise. If you’re looking to launch or grow your healthcare business, particularly in areas involving high-risk treatments, make sure you’re fully informed on CQC requirements and the standards you need to meet.
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