Severe inequality in London for weight loss drugs

Senior doctors in London report significant disparities in access to weight loss drugs, leading to a postcode lottery for patients. Dorottya Norton, an NHS weight management specialist, emphasized the inconsistency across London, making it challenging for patients to receive necessary treatments. The rising inequality is further fueled by patients seeking unregulated products online, often encountering fake or research-only medications. The NHS plans to prescribe Tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro, to approximately 220,000 severely obese individuals over the next three years, as it is seen as a critical tool in addressing the UK's obesity crisis. However, many patients are self-funding, which exacerbates disparities in access to these medications.

Sokratis Papafloratos, founder of Numan, warned about the dangers of individuals buying unregulated supplies online, injecting substances not approved for personal use. Sukhi Basra from the National Pharmacy Association expressed concern over counterfeit medications being sold to patients. The lack of consistency and rising demand for weight management services highlight the urgent need for equitable healthcare access in London.