GPhC updates guidance on weight loss medicines; CCA says ‘no need for additional regulation’

CCA argues that current regulations and guidance, when followed, are sufficient for the safe online supply of weight loss medicines

Addressing the concerns regarding online prescribing and supply of weight loss medicines, the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has confirmed that an updated guidance will be issued soon.

In a statement released on Tuesday (28 Jan), Louise Edwards, GPhC's chief strategy officer, highlighted that the revised guidance will introduce additional safeguards for high-risk medicines, including those used for weight management.

"We require all pharmacies, including those operating online, to ensure that the way in which pharmacy services are delivered safeguards the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public,” Edwards said.

He emphasised that their current guidance was specifically designed to ensure the safe and effective provision of pharmacy services at a distance, which online pharmacies in Great Britain were expected to follow.

It requires that prescribers adhere to national prescribing guidelines for the UK and follow good practice guidance.

Regarding the updated guidance, Edwards said: "We are issuing an updated version of our guidance for supplying medicines at a distance, including on the internet, shortly, which will set out additional safeguards around high-risk medicines, including medicines used for weight management.”

NPA demands tougher regulation 

The GPhC ran a consultation on the revised guidance from 17 September to  9 October 2024, inviting feedback from the public, carers, pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, other healthcare professionals, and pharmacy owners.

In its response, the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) stated that proposed safeguards “still leaves the door open for medicines to be prescribed/supplied without appropriate patient consultation and access to patient records.”

The association, representing independent community pharmacies, urged the regulator to mandate a full two-way consultation with patients and a thorough review of their medical history before dispensing ‘higher risk’ medication such as weight loss jabs.

No additional regulation required – CCA

However, the Company Chemists’ Association (CCA) disagreed with the need for additional regulation on the online sale of weight loss medicines.

CCA’s chief executive Malcolm Harrison said: “CCA members have been remotely providing weight loss medicines to patients for many years with a proven track record of safety.

“When current regulation and guidance are followed, the prescribing and supply of these medicines is safe and meets a clear patient need.

 “We do not see the need for any additional regulation,” he added.

A CCA spokesperson emphasised the importance of adhering to current regulations and guidance by all online suppliers before considering further regulation and guidance.