GPs Raises Concerns Over GLP-1 Use Among People With Eating Disorders
25 Jun 2026
The warning follows new research from the United States, which found many people with eating disorders have used these medications, raising concerns about misuse and patient safety.
The US study looked at 436 people with eating disorders. It found that 32.1% had used a GLP-1 medicine, while 22% were still taking one.
Researchers also found that 10.1% had misused the medicines, and 9.9% had used compounded versions that may not have proper medical or regulatory oversight.
The study warned that closer monitoring of GLP-1 medicines is urgently needed as more products become available, including oral versions. Researchers also raised concerns that people with eating disorders may be able to access compounded medicines without proper medical supervision.
Dr Karen Spielman, an Australian GP with a special interest in eating disorders, said the findings are concerning, even though the research was carried out in the United States.
She said many people seek help for weight loss without knowing they have an eating disorder. Because of this, GPs should always screen patients before prescribing weight-loss medicines.
Dr Spielman said failing to check for eating disorders could put patients at risk, especially those with restrictive conditions such as atypical anorexia.
In Australia, the use of GLP-1 medicines has grown rapidly. Sales increased almost tenfold between May 2020 and April 2025, with around 500,000 Australians using the medicines each month.
At the same time, the Therapeutic Goods Administration has identified the growing sale of unapproved peptide products as a compliance priority because of concerns about illegal supply.
The research was released alongside a Bupa survey showing that 19% of Australians would consider using medicines such as Ozempic to lose weight.
Dr Kristi Griffiths, Senior Research Fellow at the InsideOut Institute, said screening is essential. She encouraged GPs to create a safe and supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing eating disorders or the use of weight-loss medicines.
She said patients should know that talking about an eating disorder does not automatically mean they will be refused treatment. Instead, it allows doctors to provide the right support and reduce potential harm.
Demand for these medicines continues to rise. Last year, 15% of Australian GPs said several patients asked about weight-loss medicines every day, while many others received daily or weekly enquiries.
Dr Spielman acknowledged that detailed assessments take time, which can be difficult for busy GPs. She recommended using the InsideOut Institute's screening tool to help identify patients who may have an eating disorder before starting treatment.
The researchers said more studies are needed to better understand how GLP-1 medicines are being used by people with different types of eating disorders, including why they use them, where they obtain them, and how often misuse occurs.
GPs Raises Concerns Over GLP-1 Use Among People With Eating Disorders
Source: newsGP