The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) in the UK is raising concerns about the accessibility of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, such as Wegovy and Ozempic, through online pharmacies. They are calling for stricter regulations, including mandatory consultations with doctors for patients seeking these medications, to prevent inappropriate access and potential harm to individuals with a history of disordered eating.
The United Kingdom's National Pharmacy Association (NPA) is raising concerns about individuals with a history of disordered eating potentially gaining access to weight-loss medications , such as GLP-1 drugs, through online pharmacies . In a letter addressed to the UK's General Pharmaceutical Council , the NPA is urging stricter regulations for the online sale of these medications.
The association specifically advocates for longer consultations between a real doctor and the patient seeking the medication, lasting at least 20 minutes, as opposed to the current practice of many online pharmacies, where a questionnaire often suffices. NPA chairman Nick Kaye expressed concerns in the letter that existing regulations permit some patients to inappropriately access weight-loss injections without proper consultations or examination of their medical history. Currently, in many locations, individuals of age can purchase GLP-1 drugs from online pharmacies with minimal effort and a credit card. The NPA's letter suggests that individuals with eating disorders may provide misleading information or omit crucial details on questionnaires to obtain these drugs. They may also overlook the potential gastrointestinal side effects in pursuit of rapid weight loss. The NPA emphasizes the importance of online services while advocating for mandatory full consultations before dispensing high-risk medications like weight-loss injections. They propose ensuring that the supply is prioritized for individuals with the greatest clinical need, including those with type 2 diabetes.The concerns raised by the NPA are echoed by healthcare professionals in Canada. Aaron Keshen, co-director of the Nova Scotia Provincial Eating Disorder Service, reported an increase in patients seeking treatment for newly emerged or worsening eating disorder symptoms after initiating GLP-1 agonists. Keshen stresses the need for further research to understand the complex interplay between weight loss medications and eating disorders. While acknowledging that moderate weight loss might be beneficial for some, he cautions against rapid weight loss induced by excessive dietary restriction, which can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health
GLP-1 Drugs Weight-Loss Medications Online Pharmacies Disordered Eating Eating Disorders UK Pharmacy Association General Pharmaceutical Council
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