The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has warned that demand for weight loss drugs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro is becoming 'unsustainable', with supply potentially unable to keep pace. The NPA cautioned that shortages could drive patients to unregulated online sources, posing serious health risks.
In April, 1.6 million packs of these drugs were purchased in the UK, most through private prescriptions. New polling by Savanta for the NPA found that 21% of Britons have tried to obtain weight loss medications in the past year, rising to 35% among 18- to 34-year-olds. Additionally, 41% of all adults said they would use them if available on the NHS.
The NPA's chair, Olivier Picard, stated: 'Weight loss jabs are one of the biggest drug innovations this century but growing demand highlights the need to ensure appropriate use.' He added that the drugs may need to be reserved for the most overweight patients rather than the 'worried well'.
Supply of higher doses of Mounjaro has been restricted in some areas, preventing new patients from starting treatment. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has urged patients to obtain these drugs only with a doctor's prescription, avoiding beauty parlours or websites.
A Department of Health spokesperson said the government is committed to expanding access to these 'revolutionary' drugs safely, prioritising those in greatest need. About 220,000 people in England will be offered tirzepatide over the next three years as part of a 10-year health plan.
