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According to Google keyword searches, “how to lose weight fast” was the 35th most searched question in 2024; and “how to lose weight” ranked 53rd in the 100 most asked questions on Google’s search engine. It is likely that the words, “ozempic”, “wegovy”, and “mounjaro” will all rise in search terms in the next six months, following the news that there are now drugs available on the NHS to treat obesity and diabetes.
However, recent news has highlighted how the treatments are being abused by patients “chasing the miracle injection” to get a “body beautiful picture for Instagram” which is making the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) ask doctors to be alert to its misuse.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has backed the call, reiterating that the drugs are serious medicines, and should only be prescribed by a registered healthcare professional. Incorrect use of the weight-loss drugs have been found to have side effects including sickness and bloating amongst patients who do not meet the criteria for their use – reaffirming how only those most at need should be using the drug having received appropriate assessment, should use it.
At the moment, only Wegovy is available on the NHS in England, Wales and Scotland, but Mounjaro will soon be offered too, as demand for these drugs is reportedly high. The Prime Minister has reportedly lauded the potential of the next generation of weight-loss drugs when looking into means of getting unemployed back into work; as a means of thinking differently to ease pressures on the health system. Currently, obesity and obesity related diseases such as diabetes contributes to the strain on the NHS – with an estimated £11bn spent annually on obesity related illnesses, and results in on average four additional sick days per year by individuals with the disease.
The importance of the drugs cannot be understated, however it is evident that those who are using the treatment inappropriately, can suffer severe side effects. It is therefore important that doctors and secondary care staff remain alert to any misuse, to avoid serious harm.
