Chamber and committees

The Scottish Government recognises the wider considerations associated with GLP-1 weight loss medication use in relation to people with eating disorders.

The Scottish Government’s National Eating Disorders Network has committed to establish a short-life working group to consider potential issues relating to GLP-1 medication and eating disorders. With work expected to begin over the coming months, the group will bring together expertise to develop understanding of this evolving area and help inform appropriate next steps.

NHS inform provides information and advice on diabetes and weight loss medication, including advising people with an eating disorder to speak to a healthcare professional if they are considering taking weight loss medication.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) make clear that these medicines are prescription-only and should be prescribed by a registered healthcare professional and under appropriate medical supervision. Seeking appropriate clinical advice helps to ensure that treatment is suitable for an individual's circumstances and can be used safely.

It is important that prescription-only medicines are obtained from regulated sources, as medicines obtained through unregulated sources may not meet the required standards of safety and quality.