PEOPLE facing long waits for NHS weight loss services could be taking matters into their own hands by buying potentially unsafe jabs online, according to the Royal College of GPs

College chairwoman Professor Kamila Hawthorne warned that unregulated drugs pose serious health risks, including toxins or harmful ingredients, and often lack the necessary wraparound care provided by NHS services.

She highlighted concerns about cheaper alternatives to pre-filled injection pens, which require preparation at home, urging people to seek help from their GP rather than turning to unregulated sources.

Prof Hawthorne said the population is “gradually getting bigger” and called on the government to improve existing weight reduction services by ensuring they are properly resourced and have enough staff to meet demand.

“If you’re faced with a two-year waiting time and you want to lose weight now… you might well decide that you’re going to just sort it out yourself,” she said.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said the introduction of the weight-loss drugs to the NHS will ensure that “those with the most need will receive treatment first,” but said its 10-Year Health Plan will “shift the focus of healthcare from sickness to prevention.”