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In Spain, there are the same medications available, but they work differently. Credit: KokoSha Yuliya / Shutterstock
If you’ve got friends or family in the UK, you’ve probably heard them talk about weight-loss jabs You can also like us on Facebook Wegovy You can also find out more about Mounjaro — and how impossible they are to get.
In Spain, however, there is a much more relaxed atmosphere.
What’s the real story? We’ll break it down into plain English with reliable sources.
What are weight loss jabs?
Weight-loss shots are medications that help you lose weight. They make you feel fuller faster and for longer.
They mimic the hormone called GLP-1This is a signal to your brain that it’s time to stop eating.
You can also find out more about the following: NHS Explains that drugs like Wegovy or Mounjaro “help you feel full faster, so you eat fewer calories.”
The jabs prescribed are for people with certain diseases. very overweight Or have Type 2 diabetesThey are intended to be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Why the UK struggles to keep up
In the UK, demand for weight-loss injections has skyrocketed. Many people without diabetes tried to buy them at private clinics or through online pharmacies.
In June 2025, there will be a new date. NHS began allowing GPs to prescribe Mounjaro (tirzepatide) to some patients with obesity.
In a few months, however, there were problems with the implementation.
According to BMJ reports:
- Demand was too high and supply could not keep up.
- Only half of NHS (Integrated Care Boards), were able offer this treatment.
- Pharmacy stores began limiting the number of pens customers could purchase.
The media referred to this as a “postcode lottery” — your access depends on where you live.
Spain is a country that keeps its affairs under control
In Spain, these same medicines are available, but the system works differently.
The Spanish public health service (Sistema Nacional de Salud) only covers GLP-1 injections such as Ozempic for diabetes, not for weight loss.
That means if you want Wegovy or Mounjaro for slimming, you’ll need a private prescription and pay for it yourself.
According to the Spanish Medicines Agency (AEMPS)This approach is limited and helps maintain supplies, avoiding shortages in other countries.
Because fewer people qualify through the public system, Spain avoids the chaos happening in the UK — with fewer shortages and safer regulation.
Beware of fake weight loss injections online
Frauds will follow where there is a demand increase.
In Europe, fake weight loss injections are available online and in unreliable pharmacies.
You can also find out more about the following: World Health Organization (WHO) In 2024, the International Alert was issued after fake Ozempic In the UK and EU, pens have been found.
You can also find out more about the following: European Medicines Agency (EMA) You should also be alerted to the illegal GLP-1 product sales on social media.
Keep yourself safe
- Only from Spanish licensed pharmacies.
- Avoid Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.
- Check the barcode and Spanish labeling on the box.
- Ask your doctor for confirmation of the authenticity before using.
UK vs Spain – a simple comparison
| Country | Is it possible to get it on the public health system? | Who Qualifies | Common Problems |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK | Some NHS areas do allow pets. | People suffering from obesity or related diseases | Fake online sales, long waiting times, and shortages |
| Spain | Only for Diabetes | Diabetes type 2 is a serious condition. | Fewer shortages, lower private costs, and stricter regulations |
Official references: NHS England, AEMPS, EMA
What expats living in Spain need to know
If you are a foreigner living in Spain who is considering a weight-loss injection:
- You will likely have to go through a private doctor.
- Expect to expect Pay out of Pocket (around €150–€300 per month).
- Spanish pharmacies offer a range of services. Safer but stricter — fewer fake or illegal products slip through.
Although the system in this country is less chaotic than the one in the UK it is still more reliable.
Losing weight in a safer manner
Weight-loss jabs can help, but they’re not magic.
They work best when combined with healthy food, good sleep, and regular exercise.
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist prior to starting any treatment.
Never purchase medicines on social media sites or websites without a prescription.
Final Word
When demand for weight loss jabs grows faster than the supply, it can lead to a situation like that in the UK.
Spain’s slower system, which is more meticulous, may seem strict but it actually helps to protect patients and avoid confusion.
It means the following for expats: safer, steadier way to manage health — without the shortages and stress seen back home.
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