The Pharmacy2U Online Doctor Weight Loss service offers specialist weight management services, ongoing support, guidance, and prescription medication to help you achieve a healthier lifestyle.
The aim is to facilitate an effective, sustainable weight loss treatment by utilising medications that suppress appetite or reduce the amount of fat you absorb, coupled with a calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity.
The specialist weight management service can help you to achieve sustainable and healthy weight loss goals in six steps.
- Start your online consultation.
- Doctor's response.
- Order your medication.
- Payment and delivery.
- Your aftercare.
- Your repeat medications.
Let's take a closer look at what you can expect from each step of the service. Or get started with your weight loss journey with Pharmacy2U now.
1. Starting your online consultation
Start your weight-loss journey by completing an online consultation with a UK-based GP at a time that suits you. During this Initial step, you'll share important details about your health and preferences.
Whether you have specific treatment preferences or need guidance, the doctor will assist you in choosing the best options. They may also recommend a specific treatment based on your individual needs, laying the groundwork for your weight loss journey.
2. The doctor's response
After your online consultation, the healthcare provider will carefully evaluate your information to confirm that the recommended treatment is both safe and suitable for your needs. Pharmacy2U will promptly notify you via email or text to log in and view the doctor's response on their website. Typically, you can expect to receive this notification within one working day, although often, it's even quicker than that.
3. Ordering your medication
Once the online doctor approves your request, they will prescribe the medication for you. Rest assured, Pharmacy2U ensures discreet delivery via postal service to the address you provide.
4. Payment and delivery
Payment for your order will be processed at the point of dispatch if you’re paying by card. However, if you choose PayPal or PayPal Pay in 3 to help spread the cost, payment will be taken upfront. Pharmacy2U provides various delivery options to accommodate your preferences. Orders approved by the doctor before 4pm on weekdays are typically dispatched on the same day, ensuring prompt delivery of your prescribed treatments.
5. Aftercare
Pharmacy2U will email you shortly after your treatment has been dispatched to see how you are getting on with your weight loss drug or weight loss injections.
It is important to let them know if you have any side effects or find the treatment ineffective. This allows them to make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to ensure your well-being and satisfaction.
6. Repeat medications
Should you require further supplies, the process is simple. Log in to your account and carefully review your consultation to ensure accuracy. Once verified, you can request additional weight loss drugs and medication, pending approval from a clinician.
Which weight loss medications does the Pharmacy2U Online Doctor Weight Loss service offer?
The Pharmacy2U Online Doctor Weight Loss service offers four types of weight loss treatments that can help you lose weight when used alongside a calorie-controlled diet and exercise.
- Wegovy.
- Mounjaro.
- Xenical.
Let's take a look at these in more detail.
Wegovy
Wegovy is a weight loss injection that can be self-administered using pre-filled injection pens. The active ingredient in the Wegovy pen is semaglutide, which mimics the body's hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1). GLP-1 helps to regulate appetite and induces feelings of fullness.
Wegovy UK prescription requirements
Wegovy weight loss injections are only available through prescription in the UK if you have met specific criteria:
- If you have a BMI over 30 (or over 27 if there are other body weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure);
- And you have tried diet and exercise and need further support.
It is necessary to consult a healthcare professional for a prescription before Wegovy can be dispensed.
Wegovy is not recommended if you have certain health issues like diabetic retinopathy, kidney problems, or pancreatitis. If you have diabetes, it's important to discuss this with your GP before considering taking Wegovy because it could interact with other medications.
How effective is Wegovy for weight loss?
Research trials have proven Wegovy to be effective in helping people lose weight. In a 68-week study, 83.5% of Wegovy users lost at least 5% of their body weight during the study period when coupled with a calorie-controlled diet and exercise plan.
Mounjaro
Mounjaro is a treatment that assists in weight loss when combined with a calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise. Initially intended for managing type 2 diabetes, it has now received approval from the Medicines and Health Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for aiding weight loss and weight management in adults aged 18 and over.
Mounjaro is a pre-filled injection pen that can be self-administered once a week by injecting it under the skin of your stomach, thighs, or upper arms.
Mounjaro UK prescription requirements
Mounjaro is only available through prescription in the UK. You can use it, subject to clinical assessment, if your body mass index (BMI) is over 30 or if you have a BMI over 27 and have other weight-related health conditions (such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart problems) in addition to a reduced-calorie diet and an increase in levels of physical activity.
Before starting Mounjaro, you must talk to a doctor if you have certain health conditions, such as severe gastroparesis (a stomach-emptying issue), diabetic retinopathy (an eye problem), or a history of pancreatitis. Also, inform the doctor about any other medications you're taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal remedies, as Mounjaro might interact with them.
How effective is Mounjaro for weight loss?
During clinical trials, people taking 5mg of Mounjaro lost an average of 16.1 kg (35.5 lb) over 72 weeks. Those on 10mg lost 22.2 kg (48.9 lb), and those on 15mg lost 23.6 kg (52.0 lb) when coupled with a calorie-controlled diet and exercise plan.
Xenical
Xenical is a medication that helps with weight loss by stopping the body from absorbing some dietary fats. It works by blocking enzymes in the digestive system that break down fats so they pass through the body without being absorbed. With a healthy diet and exercise, Xenical can help you lose body weight.
Xenical UK prescription requirements
If you're finding it tough to lose weight, your doctor might suggest Xenical, a prescription medication containing 120mg of orlistat. Doctors often recommend Xenical if you have a BMI of 30 or higher, or if your BMI is 28 or above and you have health issues like high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Before starting Xenical, talk to your doctor about any health concerns or medications you're taking. This way, they can ensure it's the right choice for you and provide personalised advice for your weight loss journey.
Xenical may not be suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an allergy to orlistat or any ingredients in Xenical, live with cholestasis, or have chronic malabsorption syndrome. It's essential to discuss any existing health conditions with a doctor before considering Xenical to ensure it's safe for you to use.
How effective is Xenical for weight loss?
Research indicates that Xenical can effectively aid weight loss. However, it is important to remember that everyone's experience is different. To maximise your treatment, consider combining Xenical with a low-calorie diet and regular exercise. With dedication and healthy habits, you can work towards achieving your weight loss goals.
Is the Pharmacy2U Online Doctor Weight Loss service suitable for me?
Making decisions about body weight management can be daunting, but understanding the suitability of the Online Doctor Weight Loss service can help you on your wellness journey.
As a CQC-registered online doctor service, Pharmacy2U can prescribe a range of clinically proven weight loss treatments via their UK-based GP consultation service.
Weight loss treatments work differently for everyone and may not always bring quick results. Pairing treatments with lifestyle changes such as adopting a reduced-calorie diet and incorporating regular exercise can significantly enhance your chances of success in your weight loss journey.
Am I eligible for weight loss treatments from Pharmacy2U Online Doctor?
You may be eligible for weight loss medication from the Pharmacy2U Online Doctor service if:
- You are aged 18 to 75.
- You have a BMI of over 30.
- Or a BMI of over 27 but have been diagnosed with a weight-related health condition, such as a heart condition.
Obesity is a common condition in the UK. According to official statistics from the short statistical commentary May 2023, 63.8% of adults aged 18 years and over in England are estimated to be overweight or living with obesity. If you're on a journey to lose weight, remember there's a whole community cheering you on and facing similar challenges.
What's a healthy weight for me?
Determining a healthy weight is essential for overall well-being. The NHS suggests using BMI (body mass index) as a reliable indicator. This score, calculated based on your height, weight, and age, helps gauge whether you're within a healthy weight range. Ideally, you should aim for a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 to maintain optimal health.
Excess belly fat can raise your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Women should aim for a waist size under 31.5 inches (80cm) and men under 37 inches (93cm).
What are the benefits of maintaining a healthy weight?
Maintaining a healthy weight offers numerous benefits for overall well-being, including lowering the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Achieving a healthy weight can also improve mobility, reduce joint pain, and boost energy levels.
When coupled with a reduced-calorie diet and supervised by healthcare professionals, weight loss medication can enhance these advantages by boosting your self-confidence and mental well-being, promoting a happier and more fulfilling life.
What lifestyle changes can support healthy weight loss?
In the journey toward healthier living, simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in achieving weight loss goals.
Instead of falling for quick fixes, focusing on sustainable habits is key. This means paying attention to what you eat, being mindful of portion sizes, staying active through activities you enjoy, and getting enough sleep. By prioritising these small changes, you can create a healthier and happier lifestyle that supports long-lasting weight loss and overall wellbeing.
Achieving your weight loss goals with Pharmacy2U's Online Services
Pharmacy2U's convenient and online services offer a comprehensive approach to weight management, combining expert guidance, prescription medications tailored to your needs, and ongoing support throughout your journey.
Get started with your weight loss journey with Pharmacy2U now.
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