Lisa Summers and Claire McAllister reported from BBC Scotland that there is a scarcity of prescriptions for weight loss drugs on the NHS in Scotland. Among the medications identified as potential game-changers in the fight against obesity are Mounjaro and Wegovy. These injections are designed to curb appetites, leading individuals to feel full quicker. However, they come with certain limitations and possible side effects, making them unsuitable for everyone. Due to the costs associated with prescribing these drugs and the high prevalence of obesity in Scotland, most patients who could benefit are not receiving them for free.
Over two-thirds of Scots are considered overweight, with one-third classified as obese, equating to around one million adults with a BMI above 30. While the medicines regulator has vouched for the safety and cost-effectiveness of these drugs for NHS use, the criteria for their prescription remain stringent. Notably, semaglutide was approved last year under the name Wegovy to address obesity, with another drug, tirzepatide, also granted approval specifically for weight loss. A phased introduction has been implemented, allowing these drugs to be prescribed to individuals with a BMI over 38 and at least one weight-related health condition in the initial phase.
Despite the potential benefits of these drugs, the majority of Scottish health boards are not currently prescribing Mounjaro or Wegovy for weight loss. According to Freedom of Information requests conducted by BBC News, only a small number of individuals are receiving these drugs on the NHS, with many more awaiting treatment. Concerns have been raised regarding the lack of proper weight management services to support the recommendations and the financial strain on budgets. While access to these drugs is limited under the NHS, there has been an increase in private prescriptions for weight loss medications due to supply issues and long waiting times for services.
The article also highlighted the personal experiences of individuals like Angela Chesworth and her husband Paul, who have resorted to private prescriptions for Mounjaro to address weight-related concerns. Angela, who faced years of abuse over her weight, expressed fear of returning to her previous weight and emphasized the necessity of ongoing treatment. Both Angela and Paul underscored the financial burden of private prescriptions but emphasized the importance of these drugs in managing their conditions. Medical professionals, such as Dr. John Montgomery, have reiterated the challenges posed by universal prescription of weight-loss drugs in Scotland and called for a comprehensive strategy to address obesity, including investments in root causes and preventative measures
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