Recent changes to online weight loss medication prescriptions have been introduced to enhance patient safety. These changes are effective immediately and may impact those currently on weight loss medication or for those seeking a new prescription. 

 At The Marion Gluck Clinic, we have recently launched a leading weight management service that provides doctor-led treatment, including prescription weight loss medication. To keep our patients informed, we have compiled this guide on weight loss medication, the new regulations, and how to ensure your treatment is always.  

How Do Weight Loss Medications Work? 

Weight loss medications have gained significant media attention, but many people are unfamiliar with how they actually work. 

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) are hormones naturally produced by the intestines that regulate insulin and appetite. These hormones are used in injectable weight loss medications that are now widely available on prescription from GPs and online pharmacies. They are also used to treat diabetes by helping control insulin levels. 

 Most weight loss medications, including those used at The Marion Gluck Clinic, target GLP-1 receptors, as studies show these are the most effective for weight loss. These injections work by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and increasing the feeling of fullness, helping people to avoid overeating.  

When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, they can lead to significant weight loss. Clinical trials found on average patients lost 21% of their body weight when using the medication Tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro. 

What Are the New Regulations For Online Weight Loss Medications? 

The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), the pharmacy regulator for Great Britain, has introduced new regulations in response to concerns that online pharmacies have been prescribing weight loss medication to unsuitable patients. 

Previously, online pharmacies could prescribe these medications based solely on a questionnaire, without verifying the accuracy of the information provided by patients. This allowed individuals who did not meet the correct criteria to obtain prescriptions and thus lead to unsafe use.  

Now under the new regulations, prescribers must independently verify a patient’s weight, height, and BMI to ensure eligibility. This verification can be conducted through: 

• A video or face-to-face consultation 

• Accessing the patient’s medical records 

• Contacting the patient’s GP, previous prescriber, or a third-party provider 

Without this verification, online pharmacies are legally not able to prescribe to patients.  

 At The Marion Gluck Clinic, we have always maintained strict inclusion criteria for prescribing weight loss medication in line with health guidelines. Every patient undergoes a thorough assessment by our experienced weight management doctors. 

To be eligible for our weight management program and receive a prescription, you must: 

• Be aged between 18-75 years 

• Have a BMI over 30, or a BMI over 27 with at least one weight-related health condition (e.g., type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease) 

• Be willing to undertake regular blood tests and follow-ups for safe monitoring 

• For individuals from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean backgrounds, the BMI threshold is reduced by 2.5 

 Additionally, the new regulations will restrict online pharmacies from offering discounts that could encourage inappropriate use of these medications. 

 At the Marion Gluck Clinic, we welcome these new regulations and it means more patient safety and better control over online pharmacies in prescribing medication to people who are unsuitable.   

How Safe is Weight Loss Medication? 

With the introduction of this new regulation, it understandably causes concern for people and raises the question: how safe are these medications? 

Here, our weight management expert, Dr. Shashi Prasad explains: 

“When used under a doctor’s supervision, weight loss medication is a safe and effective way for people to manage their weight and become healthier. Obesity can cause many chronic health issues and lead to a shortened lifespan, so getting the correct treatment to live a healthier life is key.  

“Issues arise when weight loss medications are prescribed unnecessarily, are unsuitable, or are not used under medical supervision. Incorrect dosages, improper injection techniques, and lack of monitoring for side effects are why these regulations are so necessary.” 

You can find out more about our weight management treatment process here.  

Why Choose Our Weight Management Service  

Our clinic is one of the UK’s only doctor-led weight loss clinics and we provide a safe and regulated service for all our patients. Unlike many online pharmacies that have been created with the sole purpose of prescribing weight loss medication, our service is far more comprehensive. It is a full weight management program for those looking to lead a happier, healthier lifestyle. 

We are also a leading hormone and functional medicine clinic with decades of experience in treating patients holistically for a wide range of health, hormonal and weight issues. 

Patients at The Marion Gluck Clinic benefit from: 

• Direct consultations with experienced doctors throughout your treatment.  

• Ongoing monitoring and blood tests to ensure safe and effective treatment. 

• A holistic approach to weight management, integrating lifestyle, hormone health and dietary advice.  

What sets The Marion Gluck Clinic apart is our direct and personalised approach to patient care. Unlike online pharmacies, where you may have to wait weeks for a GP appointment if you experience side effects or have concerns about your medication, our clinic allows you to book an online appointment with your dedicated weight management doctor straight away.  

This means you receive expert guidance from the same doctor who prescribes your treatment and understands your full medical history, ensuring safer, and more effective care. We also have two in-person clinics for those who would prefer a face-to-face consultation.  

Switching to Us 

If you have been affected by the new regulations and can no longer access your online weight loss medication, you can switch to The Marion Gluck Clinic for a safe, doctor-led approach to weight management. 

To switch, we require you to meet our eligible criteria through a video or face-to-face consultation, or letter from your GP.  

If you are looking for a safe, personalised and doctor-led approach to weight management then book an enquiry call with us now and a member of our patient care team will get back to you to arrange your first consultation.