A superintendent pharmacist at local pharmacy group is warning patients to be more rigorous in purchasing weight loss medications online, after a recent Freedom of Information Request to the
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) revealed a growing volume of unlicensed sellers operating throughout the UK.
The request revealed that 5,851 falsified or unlicensed weight loss injections were seized by the MHRA last year; a steep rise from the 407 that were seized in 2023.
Ahsan Bhatti, Superintendent Pharmacist at Frankley Pharmacy in Rubery, Birmingham, and licensed online pharmacy Quick Meds (part of the Apothecare Group), says that illegal online sellers are using more sophisticated methods such as AI to target people seeking weight loss injections.
“Weight-loss medicines are prescription-only for a reason,” said Ahsan. “They’re powerful treatments that require proper clinical assessment and ongoing oversight. Unfortunately, we’re seeing more people using websites or social media sellers offering shortcuts, often at lower prices, without any meaningful checks – and that’s concerning for patients and the wider healthcare sector.”
Ahsan urged patients carry out due diligence before ordering medication online. Legitimate UK pharmacies must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council and clearly display their registration details, the name of the superintendent pharmacist and a physical UK address.
Another warning sign is lack of consultation; Ahsan advised that any pharmacy offering prescription medicines without a thorough medical questionnaire or assessment should raise immediate concerns.
“A proper consultation should look at medical history, existing conditions and suitability for treatment. If that step is missing, patient safety is being compromised.”
He has also cautioned against websites making exaggerated claims or presenting weight-loss injections as a quick fix.
“Reputable, regulated providers are expected to be careful about how treatments are described,” said Ahsan. “They explain both the benefits and the risks, and they make it clear that medication is only part of a wider approach to weight management.”
Unregulated medicines can pose serious health risks, including incorrect dosing, contamination or unknown ingredients. Without proper prescribing and follow-up, said Ahsan, patients may also miss early signs of side effects or complications.
“Weight-loss medicines are not suitable for everyone and should only be prescribed following appropriate clinical assessment,” said Ahsan. “Taking a few minutes to check credentials and understand the process can make the difference between safe treatment and serious harm.”
