Key Summary
- A vast majority of Londoners are currently obtaining weight loss drugs privately, which carries significant risks.
- The slow NHS rollout, growing private market and rising illicit sales are creating a two-tier system
- CCA chief Malcolm Harrison pointed out that community pharmacies are already providing weight loss treatments safely, and the government should tap this service.
The Company Chemists Association (CCA) has called upon the government and the NHS to involve community pharmacies in their weight loss treatment programmes to significantly improve their reach.
The CCA was reacting to the London Assembly Health Committee’s report on weight loss medicines in London.
The report has stated that the slow NHS rollout, growing private market and rising illicit sales are creating a two-tier system for Londoners seeking treatment for obesity.
It warned that a vast majority of people are currently obtaining weight loss drugs privately, which carries significant risks.
While around half a million Londoners could be eligible for the medicines, only around 3,000 were receiving them on the NHS as of November 2025.
At the same time, tens of thousands are estimated to be buying them privately, contributing to what the Committee describes as a growing “two-tier system” of access.
The report had called for accelerating the NHS rollout of weight loss medicines, and developing a London-wide clinical pathway and wraparound care to ensure patients receive consistent support alongside medication.
CCA chief executive Malcolm Harrison said, “The Committee’s report is further evidence of the value of weight loss medicines for eligible patients.
"Community pharmacies already play an important role in providing weight loss treatments safely and effectively, both in-person and online, supported by established clinical pathways and strong patient safeguards.
"There is a clear opportunity for the government and NHS to build on this expertise and commission an NHS weight management service through community pharmacy. Expanding access in this way would not only help more patients receive support but would also help millions access it faster.
"Obesity is a national problem and needs national support, delivered at scale. This is where pharmacy excels. Pharmacy-enabled support would ensure the best outcomes for patients and reduce the burden of obesity on the NHS and the wider economy.”
Curb illicit medication: NPA
National Pharmacy Association vice-chair Sukhi Basra said, "We were pleased that the committee listened to evidence provided by the NPA and others and have called for more robust action to tackle a growing black market for illicit medication.
"High demand for weight loss medication, coupled with a very slow and cautious NHS roll out, has created the perfect storm for criminals who are running a growing black market selling counterfeit weight loss medication.
"To help speed up the roll out and reach more patients as well as potentially limit opportunities for illicit sales, the government should use the extensive experience of pharmacists to become part of the NHS roll out of weight management treatments.
"Community pharmacies can provide a patient with the care they need to achieve a sustainable weight loss, through wrap around support and careful lifestyle changes, where a patient is eligible for treatment.”
