Australian GPs Warn Against Fast-Track Online Prescribing of Weight-Loss Medicines
07 Jul 2026
The US study tested 49 websites offering GLP-1 medicines by using a researcher who posed as a patient. Prescriptions were issued by 45 providers, despite the patient initially submitting only limited photographs instead of a full clinical assessment.
Researchers reported that most websites relied on online questionnaires, but only a small number required patients to speak with a clinician through a video or phone consultation before treatment was approved. In several cases, prescriptions were reportedly issued within minutes, prompting concerns about the level of medical oversight.
The authors said this approach could increase health and financial risks, particularly when compounded GLP-1 medicines are supplied without thorough assessment or ongoing monitoring.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said the findings reflect concerns about the increasing number of telehealth services that focus on a single health condition. While the study was conducted in the United States, he said Australia has also seen rapid growth in direct-to-consumer telehealth services.
Dr Wright said obesity management involves more than prescribing medication, requiring a complete assessment of a person's health, medical history and long-term care. He added that regular follow-up with a patient's usual GP remains an important part of safe and effective treatment.
The RACGP continues to support telehealth as an option when clinically appropriate but says it should complement, rather than replace, ongoing care provided by a regular general practice.
The Federal Government is also introducing new measures that will require telehealth-only providers to routinely share patients' medication information to help improve continuity of care across the health system.
Researchers acknowledged that the study used a simulated patient and said the results may not represent every person's experience when accessing online prescribing services.
Australian GPs Warn Against Fast-Track Online Prescribing of Weight-Loss Medicines
Source: RACGP NewsGP