Tory leadership contenders spar over weight loss injection rumors

Rumors of Ozempic use spark private jabs

Tory leadership contenders have taken private jabs at each other over rumors of using weight loss injection Ozempic. At least one candidate is speculated to have relied on the drug for a leadership makeover, risking the first "yellow card" for internal party attacks.

Claims and counterclaims in the Sunday Times

The claims surfaced in a Sunday Times interview with Security Minister Tom Tugendhat, who denied using the weight loss drug, unlike one of his rivals. However, Westminster is buzzing with reports from leadership camps suggesting that multiple candidates have shed pounds rapidly this summer with the help of Ozempic.

Party bosses crack down on public feuds

Conservative party officials are keen to avoid public spats between the leadership contenders, following the party's disappointing election results in July. The returning office can publicly identify and shame any candidate believed to be involved in personal attacks on a rival.

Pharmacy leaders warn against fake weight-loss jabs

As rumors swirl about the use of Ozempic, pharmacy leaders are cautioning against buying counterfeit weight-loss injections, especially due to shortages of prescription drugs. The demand for diabetes medication Ozempic has led to shortages, with some patients being prescribed off-label Wegovy for weight loss.

Call for caution and consultation

The National Pharmacy Association is advising patients to consult their pharmacist or GP rather than purchasing medications from unregulated online sellers. Chairman Nick Kaye highlighted the importance of prioritizing Ozempic stocks for those with the greatest clinical need.