Pharmacists in the United Kingdom have expressed concern over a rise in counterfeit weight-loss pills following the recent approval of the Wegovy tablet. The medication, which received regulatory approval last month, is the first weight-loss drug in tablet form authorized by the UK medicines regulator.

A survey conducted by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) of 310 pharmacies revealed that 97% of respondents worry the decision may fuel an increase in fake versions of the drug circulating in the market. The NPA emphasized the potential risks posed by unregulated sources selling these medications.

Olivier Picard, chairman of the National Pharmacy Association, cautioned consumers to obtain Wegovy exclusively through regulated pharmacies where prescriptions are issued after thorough consultations. He highlighted that the tablet form could be more susceptible to counterfeiting compared to other presentations of weight-loss drugs. Picard advised the public to be wary of online vendors offering the drug at suspiciously low prices or those who do not require medical evaluations prior to dispensing the medication.

The NPA’s warning comes amid growing concern over the expanding black market for weight-loss treatments, which poses significant health risks to patients relying on fraudulent or substandard products. Health professionals stress that proper medical oversight is essential to ensure patient safety when using such medications.