THE DANGER ONLINE PHARMACIES POSE ON CLIENTS WITH EATING DISORDERS IN THE PRESCRIPTION OF GLP-1 AGONISTS FOR WEIGHT LOSS

This literature review explores the prevalence of utilizing online pharmacies to obtain glucagon-like peptide 1 agonist, Semaglutide, for cosmetic weight loss and the danger that route of obtaining medication places on clients with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. In addition, research was conducted to establish practice recommendations to eliminate the possibility of a client with an eating disorder from obtaining a GLP-1 agonist when it is inappropriate for their health status. Various articles were used to gain information about the drug in general, its mechanism of action, indications, positive outcomes, and adverse effects. Additional articles were studied to explain the two eating disorders and their causative factors. This review uses an arrangement of meta-analysis, open-label studies, qualitative reviews, and quantitative studies. The analysis showed that there is an increased concern with online pharmaceutical distribution of this medication class and the dangers of eating disorder patients acquiring and consuming these drugs enabling their mental health disorder prohibiting the clients from receiving the psychiatric interventions they need. Recommendations are provided to improve the current practices incorporating additional screening tools to better identify patients with current eating disorders or a history of eating disorders, establishing a well-rounded healthcare team in administering this drug class for weight-loss effects, and mandating face-toface appointments through means of Telehealth or in-person to appropriately evaluate the client who is trying to acquire this medication.