Switching Pharmacies for Weight Loss Drugs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ed Milner | Last update: 17th October 2025
Switching pharmacies or providers for prescription weight loss drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy is a common and generally straightforward process in the UK. Many people do it because they’ve had a bad experience, their pharmacy is out of stock, or they’ve found a cheaper or more supportive alternative.
This article explains the full process, common issues, and how to switch without interrupting your treatment. We also link to our pricing breakdown and to the official General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registry to help you choose safe and reliable providers
Why people switch
- Cost: Prices range widely – from ~£150 to over £350/month
- Availability: Stock issues with major providers can disrupt treatment
- Support: Some clinics offer dietitian and coaching support – others don’t
- Service: Late deliveries, poor customer service or confusing policies
The process is regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), and while every provider must complete their own clinical review, most allow you to continue at your current dose if you provide adequate documentation.
Read our related article: Mounjaro UK Prices: What the Real Picture Looks Like
Step-by-Step Guide to Switching Providers
| Step | Action Required | Key Details and Timing |
| 1. Plan the transition | Start 5-7 days before your current dose runs out | Avoid gaps – stopping for 14+ days may mean restarting at 2.5mg |
| 2. Research and choose a provider | Choose based on cost, support, and flexibility | Some switch monthly- always verify on the GPhC register |
| 3. Complete a new consultation | Fill in the form and confirm you’re already on treatment | You may need to enter your original starting weight for eligibility |
| 4. Submit proof | Upload clear photos of previous prescription box, label or invoice | Label must show your name, dose, drug and date; many also want proof of most recent injection (within 10 days) |
| 5. Undergo clinical review | A licensed clinician will review your info | Some providers may require a short video call |
| 6. Receive your supply | Delivery is typically 1-2 days longer than a repeat order | Stay consistent with your usual injection day |
Tip: Always keep a record or photo of your last pen box showing the prescription label.
Differences Between Providers
Eligibility & BMI Requirements
- Your original BMI vs. current weight: When you are switching, providers typically use your starting BMI (when you first started the treatment) to assess eligibility.
- Thresholds: Most require BMI ≥30 (or ≥27 with a related condition). Some may adjust for ethnicity.
- Maintenance phase: If your BMI is now below 27, switching may be harder. However, some providers (e.g. Second Nature, Voy) offer flexible or maintenance prescribing if you show history and proof.
Types of Providers
| Provider Type | Monthly Cost | Support Included | Best For |
| Basic Online Pharmacies | £150–£250 | Medication only | Self-motivated users comfortable managing treatment alone |
| Comprehensive Programmes | £229–£350 | Medication + support (nutritionist, coaching, medical reviews) | Those who want structured help, or are in maintenance stage |
Common Mistakes and Tips
Mistake: Leaving it too late to switch
Fix: Start at least 5-7 days early to avoid disruption
Mistake: Switching on price only
Fix: Check refund policy, support quality, and whether they’ll support long-term prescribing
Mistake: Using unclear or incorrect documentation
Fix: Use prescription box label with name, dose, and date. Furthermore, add a screenshot of previous order if needed
Mistake: Forgetting about future maintenance
Fix: Some users prefer sticking with one provider for the whole journey, which can make future prescribing easier
Mistake: Using unverified or subscription-only providers
Fix: Avoid clinics that require subscriptions or aren’t on the GPhC register
Before You Switch: Questions to Ask
- Are they on the GPhC register?
- Do they offer maintenance support if your BMI drops below 27?
- Do they require video consults?
- Can they deliver on time?
- Will they accept your current dose?
SlimrChat User Experience
I switched providers twice without issue. I sent a photo of the box and label and it went through in 2 days. In both cases I saved a significant amount!
My new provider was cheaper but didn’t offer any advice. I missed the support.
Starting the switch early is key. I applied while I still had a week left and that gave enough time.
Final Word from SlimrChat
Switching pharmacies or providers is normal, and often smart. Indeed, it doesn’t matter whether you’re doing it for cost, service or support, the key is planning ahead, uploading the right documents, and making sure the provider is properly regulated.
Furthermore. ask about long-term options if you are planning for maintenance. And remember – the SlimrChat community is full of people who’ve made switches and can share what worked (or didn’t).
Head to our forums to ask about switching experiences or provider reviews.