Call for Stricter Regulations on Online Sales of Weight-Loss Drugs

Sayed Habib
With the new year bringing a potential rise in demand for weight-loss drugs, mostly countries's National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has called for stricter regulations on their online sales. The association has raised concerns that current rules allow these drugs to be supplied without proper consultation or a review of the patient’s medical history, putting patient safety at risk.

NPA representative said, “Obesity is one of the biggest health challenges in our country, and pharmacies play an important role in helping patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight. However, weight-loss drugs must be used responsibly and under proper guidance to avoid risks. The current regulations leave room for patients to access these medications without adequate consultation or oversight.”

The NPA recommends that weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro should only be prescribed after a thorough consultation and careful review of the patient’s medical history. They also emphasized the need to strengthen the guidelines drafted by the General Pharmaceutical Council to ensure better patient safety.

Warning About Online Sales Risks :

The NPA has warned patients against purchasing weight-loss drugs from unregulated online sellers, as this could expose them to dangerous counterfeit products. Similarly, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has advised patients to avoid buying drugs from unreliable sources, such as beauty salons or social media platforms.

Government Plans and Growing Demand :

With the government planning to expand access to weight-loss drugs over the coming years, private pharmacies and online sellers may see an increase in demand. Stricter rules are essential to ensure the safe and responsible distribution of these medications.

NPA’s Goal :
The NPA aims to ensure that every patient receives proper guidance and that their full medical history is considered before prescribing weight-loss drugs. This will not only enhance patient safety but also support efforts to combat obesity effectively.

As the market for weight-loss drugs grows, stricter oversight is crucial to ensure these medications are used safely and only by those who truly need them.