At CheqUp, our mission is to help people achieve their weight management goals safely and effectively. As part of this commitment, we adhere to the highest standards of responsible prescribing. This means that every decision we make about prescribing medication is guided by your health needs, not just the outcome you’re hoping to achieve.
Some people may be disappointed if we are unable to prescribe medication, but the health and wellbeing of our patients will always come first.
Here, we explain why we ask the questions we do, what our prescribers are looking for, and why 100% honesty about your health is vital.
Why do we ask detailed health questions
Before prescribing any medication, a doctor has a duty to build a complete picture of your health. This isn’t just a formality—it’s the cornerstone of safe and effective treatment.
Weight loss medications are not suitable for everyone. For example, some medications may not be appropriate if you have certain conditions, such as severe kidney or liver impairment, pancreatitis, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Certain medications may interact with other drugs you’re taking, or they may not be safe for individuals with specific conditions. By understanding your full medical history, we can avoid risks and tailor our recommendations to your unique needs.
By knowing about your health, lifestyle, and goals, we can suggest the best treatment options and additional support, such as dietary advice or behavioural coaching, to enhance your journey.
What our prescribers look for
For us to make the best decisions about your care, we need complete honesty about all aspects of your health. Our team of highly trained prescribers follows strict clinical guidelines to ensure every decision is made with your health and safety in mind. Here are some key factors they consider:
Body mass index (BMI)
Many weight loss medications are only suitable for individuals with a BMI above a specific threshold. For example, treatments may be prescribed for those with a BMI over 30 or over 27 if they have associated health conditions like type 2 diabetes or hypertension. BMI helps us determine whether the medication is clinically appropriate and safe for your weight management needs.
Medical history
Understanding your medical history is crucial to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. This includes identifying any previous or existing conditions that could affect your suitability for weight loss medications. For instance, a history of severe kidney or liver impairment, pancreatitis, or other chronic conditions might indicate that certain medications are not appropriate for you. By reviewing your medical history, we can tailor the treatment plan to minimise risks and maximise the chances of success.
Current medications
Some drugs interact with weight loss medications in ways that could be harmful. For example, individuals taking certain anticoagulants or medications for epilepsy may not be suitable candidates for some treatments. These interactions can reduce the effectiveness of the medication or lead to adverse side effects. This is why we carefully review all medications and supplements you are currently taking to ensure there are no contraindications. Honesty about every medication you use, even occasionally, is critical to your safety.
Health conditions
We carefully assess whether any underlying health issues, such as gallbladder disease or a history of organ transplants, may make a medication unsafe for you. For example, weight loss medications can increase the risk of gallstones in individuals with a history of gallbladder problems. Similarly, certain medications will not be suitable for those with active cancer. This thorough evaluation ensures we can recommend an option that complements your existing health needs rather than complicating them.
Lifestyle factors
Your overall lifestyle, including diet, activity levels, and mental health, plays a crucial role in determining the best path forward. Weight loss medications work best when combined with lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet and regular physical activity. By factoring in these elements, we can create a more comprehensive and sustainable plan for success.
Instances where we will not prescribe
To protect your health, there are certain situations where we will never prescribe weight loss medication. These include:
- If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.
- If you have certain medical conditions that make weight loss medications unsafe, including a history of pancreatitis
- If you are taking certain medications which could conflict with weight loss medication
- If you are under the age of 18
- If have not completed the consultation process fully
Our prescribers are trained to identify red flags that could compromise your safety and will always act in your best interests.
It is therefore really important that you are 100% honest when completing our medical questionnaire.
Our commitment to your health
At CheqUp, responsible prescribing isn’t just a policy—it’s a promise. Your health and well-being are always our top priorities. By working together and being transparent about your health, we can ensure the best possible outcomes for your weight management journey.
If you have any questions about our process or need help completing your consultation, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
