Birmingham pharmacist warns against ‘cutting corners’ to access weight-loss jabs
New study suggests one in three would skip health checks to start treatment sooner
A Birmingham pharmacist has warned people in Birmingham not to “cut corners” in a rush to access weight-loss injections, after new research suggested millions across the UK would consider skipping health checks or withholding medical information to get the treatment more quickly.
The study, carried out by Well Pharmacy, found around one in three adults would take weight-loss medication without first speaking to a healthcare professional or would skip health checks if it meant starting sooner.
One in four said they would downplay existing health conditions, while 26% admitted they might not disclose all the medication they are taking to avoid delays.
Mital Thakrar, Head of Weight Management Services at Well Pharmacy – which has more than 675 branches nationwide – said the findings were concerning.
“It’s quite scary,” she said. “The relationship you build up with a healthcare professional is really important. Without the proper checks, it’s difficult to build a true picture of someone’s health and make sure what’s being advised is clinically safe.”
Mr Thakrar, a qualified pharmacist who has been with the company for more than 12 years, said demand for weight-loss injections had grown significantly, particularly at the start of the year when many people are looking to adopt healthier habits.
“It’s a really growing space,” she said. “We’re seeing lots of inquiries and lots of questions about the different treatment options available.”
She said pharmacists are supporting patients both in-store and online, with consultations covering not just the medication itself but also what she described as “wraparound care”.
“Treatment is just one part,” she said. “Sustainable weight loss is about diet, nutrition, exercise, sleep and building the right habits. It’s not just about starting an injection.”
She added that pharmacies are increasingly seeing patients who initially obtained medication online before seeking further advice.
“Sometimes people are tempted by cheaper or faster options,” she said. “But it’s important to check that the provider is regulated and that you understand who the prescriber is.”
Mr Thakrar said patients should not be driven by price alone and should ensure pharmacies are registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council.
Her message to anyone considering weight-loss injections was clear: “Don’t rush. Don’t cut corners. Make sure you have all the information you need before starting any treatment.”