Deception for Drugs: Patients Forge Photos for Weight Loss

Pharmacies are raising concerns over an increasing trend of patients resorting to deception to obtain weight-loss medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy. Tactics include using AI-edited photographs to falsely appear heavier and meet eligibility criteria. This practice bypasses new guidelines introduced nearly two years ago, which mandate stricter verification of patient weight, often through video consultations or medical record checks. Sehar Shahid of the National Pharmacy Association highlighted the evolving technological challenges in verifying eligibility, emphasizing that regulations must adapt to safeguard patient safety. The United Kingdom has witnessed a substantial rise in the use of GLP-1 medications, with an estimated 1.6 million adults using them in a 12-month period ending early 2025. Many access these treatments, which can cost up to £300 per month, through private online pharmacies. Ahsan Bhatti, an online pharmacy owner, noted sophisticated AI editing in submitted photos. He stressed that these powerful medicines have potential risks and side-effects, and honest consultations are vital. The Royal College of Psychiatrists' eating disorder faculty also expressed concern, as charities report patients obtaining medication through falsified images. The industry regulator, the General Pharmaceutical Council, stated that verifying BMI via phone or static photos is inappropriate and warned of actions against non-compliant pharmacies.