Unregulated weight-loss injections: A dangerous game, warns MP
An MP who lost nearly 10 stone on Mounjaro has issued a stark warning about the dangers of unregulated weight-loss injections. Carolyn Harris, the Labour MP for Neath and Swansea East, dropped from a size 24 to a size 10 after taking the slimming drug in October 2024, following mobility issues.
She expressed frustration with the relentless criticism she faced from online trolls, but emphasized the importance of using regulated channels for health-related reasons. Harris obtained her medication through a GP, ensuring all necessary medical checks were conducted.
Her experience highlights the challenges faced by individuals struggling with mobility and the constant online criticism that can overshadow their political work. The 65-year-old revealed that her appearance had become a focal point, even though she is passionate about her political causes.
However, Harris strongly advises against obtaining weight-loss drugs from unlicensed sources. She warns that people who do so are essentially playing Russian roulette with their lives, as they lack knowledge about the contents of the injections. This concern is shared by the National Pharmacy Association, which has raised alarms about the surge in demand for drugs like Mounjaro and Ozempic, and the potential risks associated with unauthorized access.
In England, prescribing weight-loss injections requires registration with the Care Quality Commission. In contrast, Wales only mandates registration with the Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) for doctors, leaving other healthcare professionals without the same regulatory oversight. This has led to concerns about an unsafe black market for these products.
The Welsh government acknowledges the growing demand for weight management medicines and the pressure to access them through the NHS. They are working on a new model to ensure sustainable access and provide wrap-around support for weight loss. Additionally, they have implemented arrangements to prioritize individuals with the most urgent clinical need while exploring broader access options.
