How a clinician decides

Before prescribing an obesity medicine, a clinician reviews factors such as BMI, medical history, other conditions, current medicines and potential risks. Only then can they decide whether treatment is appropriate.

Online obesity treatment

An online consultation can be one route to medical assessment. A clinician may issue a prescription only when they have enough information and consider treatment appropriate and safe.

Weight loss medications

There is no single medicine that suits everyone. Treatments differ in active ingredient, dosing, contraindications, side effects and approved use.

Side effects

Before starting treatment, discuss possible side effects, contraindications and your current medicines with a clinician. Use the current patient leaflet and product information for medicine-specific safety details.

Related topics

Weight-loss medications: what options exist in EuropeMedicines used for overweight and obesity are selected according to the approved indication, a person’s health and local availability. They include injections as well as other formulations.→
Online obesity treatment: what to expect from a medical consultationTelemedicine can make an initial clinical assessment and follow-up more accessible. Discreet online consultation with the possibility of a prescription if a doctor considers the treatment appropriate after an individual assessment. Treatment must be based on an individual assessment and the rules of the country where care is provided.→
Weight-loss injections: what they are and when they are usedThe phrase “weight-loss injections” usually refers to prescription medicines used in obesity care. They are not over-the-counter products and they are not suitable for everyone.→

Official EMA sources

FAQ

Are weight loss injections available without a prescription?

No. Modern obesity medicines such as Wegovy and Mounjaro are prescription medicines in the EU.

Can an online doctor issue a prescription?

Yes. Discreet online consultation with the possibility of a prescription if a doctor considers the treatment appropriate after an individual assessment.

Are Mounjaro and Wegovy the same?

No. Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and Wegovy contains semaglutide. Their mechanisms and clinical use differ.