A troubling investigation into the availability of weight loss drugs in the UK has revealed that a major pharmacy chain, Boots, sold the controversial medication Wegovy to a teenager who lied about her age.
This incident was captured on camera as part of journalist Ellie Flynn’s investigation for Channel 4’s Dispatches, shedding light on how easy it is to acquire these medications through the private market.
Undercover Journalist Exposes Gaps in Boots’ Prescription System
The shocking moment occurred when a 16-year-old undercover reporter, posing as an 18-year-old, was able to purchase Wegovy from Boots without any verification of her age.
Despite the pharmacy’s stated policy of not prescribing weight loss injections to those under 18, she was only asked to confirm her birthdate when picking up the prescription, without any request for photo ID.
Flynn pointed out the serious error in Boots’ system, noting that this could potentially endanger young people who might misuse the drug.
How the Teenage Reporter Managed to Get Wegovy
The teenager, referred to as Amber, was able to use her real personal details—name, address, and GP contact information—while falsely stating her age as 18 during an online application for Wegovy on January 9, 2025.
Despite being approved for the drug just four days later, she had no trouble collecting it in person at her local Boots store, where the only requirement was confirming her date of birth.
Stricter Rules Introduced, But Did They Make a Difference?
In early February 2025, the General Pharmaceutical Council introduced stricter rules around the dispensing of weight loss drugs like Wegovy.
Pharmacies were now required to conduct in-person or video consultations and have access to medical records before prescribing these drugs.
However, Amber was able to collect her second dose of Wegovy just eight days after the new rules were put into effect, facing no issues at the counter when asked to confirm her date of birth once again.
The Rising Trend of Weight Loss Drugs in the UK
Flynn’s investigation reveals that weight loss medications like Wegovy and Ozempic have become increasingly popular in the UK, with many people using them as an easy way to lose weight.
These drugs, initially approved for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, have become a phenomenon since celebrities and influencers began touting them for their “miracle” weight loss properties.
Flynn highlights that many people view these drugs as a lifestyle choice, with some describing them as “cheaper than a gym membership.”
The Hidden Dangers of Using Weight Loss Jabs Without Medical Guidance
While these drugs may seem like an easy fix for weight loss, Flynn warns of the real risks involved when they are used without proper medical oversight.
Medics have raised concerns about the growing number of young women who are seeking these drugs online, often by falsifying their details.
These drugs can have serious side effects, and Flynn points out that there has been a significant rise in patients reporting complications, including those requiring hospital treatment.
The Health Risks Associated with Online Weight Loss Drugs
Recent reports have highlighted the dangers of purchasing weight loss drugs through online pharmacies.
Young women, in particular, have been known to buy Wegovy by providing false information about their health and appearance.
One such case involved a girl who ended up in A&E with severe symptoms after using Wegovy, even though she was not overweight.
She was treated for a condition called “starvation ketoacidosis,” a potentially life-threatening issue that arises from extended fasting.
The Increasing Problem of Unregulated Weight Loss Drugs in the UK
Flynn’s investigation also highlights the ongoing issue of unregulated weight loss drugs being sold through the private market.
These drugs are often available for purchase online without proper prescriptions or consultations.
While Wegovy is licensed for patients aged 12 and over, the lack of stringent checks has made it easier for people to bypass regulations and obtain these medications without any medical supervision.
Boots Responds to the Allegations
When contacted by Channel 4, Boots issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to patient safety and the high quality of care they aim to provide.
However, the pharmacy chain acknowledged that their policy is not to prescribe Wegovy to those under the age of 18, despite the lapses in their system that allowed Amber to obtain the drug.
This incident raises questions about the effectiveness of Boots’ internal checks and the potential for similar cases to occur in the future.
Why the Public Should Be Concerned About the Skinny Jab Scandal
Flynn’s investigation into the rising use of weight loss jabs in the UK serves as a wake-up call to the public.
While the popularity of these drugs continues to grow, the lack of regulation and oversight surrounding their distribution is a serious concern.
As more people, particularly young individuals, turn to online sources for these medications, the risks associated with their use are becoming increasingly apparent.
The Dispatches episode, airing on March 4, 2025, promises to expose the dark side of the weight loss drug craze and its potential dangers.