Superdrug launches new weight loss blood test service in-stores

Superdrug has broadened its in-person weight loss blood test service following its initial launch earlier this year, now including the drugs Mounjaro and Wegovy in its high street health clinics.

With these new additions, Superdrug boasts one of the most extensive weight loss services available on the UK high street. The retailer emphasises: "Patient safety and accessibility is at our core."

The newly introduced Advanced Weight Loss Blood Test is designed to enhance weight loss efforts and detect any potential nutrient deficiencies.

The service enables patients to monitor important health markers such as cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and inflammation, which are all linked to being overweight. These tests are conducted at the beginning of the weight loss programme and then every three months thereafter.

It includes the latest addition of Mounjaro and the existing Wegovy, cover checks on blood pressure, weight, and BMI. Additionally, Superdrug provides dietary and wellness advice through consultations with a qualified healthcare professional trained to deliver this service, reports Wales Online.

Superdrug's website states: "The Superdrug Weight Loss service is provided through our specially trained Health Clinics teams. This new service is led by trained nurses and pharmacists who provide personalised support and guidance to patients wishing to start their weight loss journey with face-to-face support."

"The service includes an initial consultation, where the nurse will take your measurements, BMI and blood pressure, and will take the time to discuss your weight loss goals and medical history with you. As part of the service, if suitable, we offer weight loss medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro."

This service is tailored for individuals with a BMI of 30 or above, or those with a BMI of at least 27 who also have a weight-related health condition.

Additionally, healthcare professionals at Superdrug are equipped to demonstrate and administer the first dose of weight loss medication during the consultation, should the patient consent. Appointments for the weight-loss service can be made online at here.

Prices for a four-week course of Mounjaro start at £215 and will be available in over 80 Superdrug Health Clinics across England, Wales and Scotland. Mounjaro and Wegovy primarily reduce body weight by decreasing calorie intake.

They regulate appetite by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing hunger, leading to less food consumption. You can check your BMI with the NHS BMI Calculator.

Mounjaro:

• 2.5mg - £215

• 5mg - £215

• 7.5mg- £225

• 10mg- £225

• 12.5mg - £245

• 15mg- £245

Mounjaro can only be prescribed to adults with a BMI over 30, or those with a BMI of 27+ with at least one weight-related condition. This will be assessed during your consultation. It is only prescribed as part of a tailored weight management programme, which might include diet changes and exercise.

Wegovy:

• 0.25mg- £195

• 0.50mg- £195

• 1mg- £195

• 1.7mg- £245

• 2.4mg- £295

Wegovy is an injectable weight-loss medication for overweight adults or adults with obesity. Taken just once a week, this medication works by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain that help regulate your appetite.

By experiencing reduced hunger, it’s been found that patients lost more weight compared to following a weight loss plan without Wegovy. Wegovy can only be prescribed to adults with a BMI over 30, or those with a BMI of 27+ with at least one weight-related condition.

Niamh McMillan, Superdrug's Pharmacy Superintendent, shared: "At Superdrug our aim is to provide people with a range of options to suit different requirements, so that they have a wider choice to help them make informed decisions. The launch of our new weight loss blood test and introduction of Mounjaro into our high street clinics gives our customers a greater insight into their health whilst on a weight loss treatment."

She further explained the benefits of the service: "It also allows them to discuss their specific needs around weight loss with a trained healthcare professional and discuss any concerns or questions they may have, so that they're clear on the benefits and risks. The weight loss service is only available for those who have an eligible BMI and we have a strict screening process both in our Health Clinics and online so that only people eligible will be able to access the service."