UK pharmacies are preparing for a surge in demand following the nationwide launch of the first two strengths of Novo Nordisk’s oral GLP-1 treatment on 6 July.
The findings are based on a snap survey conducted by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), which represents around 6,000 independent community pharmacies across the UK.
The survey found that 76% of pharmacies anticipate starting significant numbers of new eligible patients on the treatment in the coming months.
Meanwhile, 49% reported an increase in patient enquiries about starting treatment following Novo Nordisk’s MHRA approval last month.
Concerns over counterfeit GLP-1 medicines
The survey also highlighted concerns about the potential growth of the illicit market for weight loss medicines.
According to the findings, 97% of pharmacies are concerned that the introduction of an oral treatment could lead to an increase in counterfeit or unlicensed products being sold.
The NPA emphasised that patients seeking oral GLP-1 treatment should access it through regulated pharmacy services, where eligibility and suitability can be assessed through a two-way consultation.
The warning comes amid concerns that unregulated suppliers could sell counterfeit or substituted weight loss medicines that do not meet UK regulatory standards, increasing patient safety risks.
Calls for faster NHS rollout
While the 1.5 mg and 4mg oral doses (the lowest strengths) are now available to eligible patients, the NPA noted that most patients currently receive treatment privately through pharmacies.
The association has urged the UK government to use community pharmacies to accelerate the NHS rollout of these oral GLP-1s and provide weight management treatment to a broader range of eligible patients.
Olivier Picard, Chair, National Pharmacy Association, said:
“The NHS roll out remains extremely slow and community pharmacy is ready to support a wider roll out, which will help eligible patients access treatment safely and help mitigate the impact of obesity on the NHS.
“However, as this survey shows, pharmacies are concerned about a dangerous and growing black market for weight loss medicines, with tablet form of medication likely to be easier for criminals to counterfeit.”
Featured image: Aldercy Carling on Adobe Stock
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