Robert Jenrick, a candidate for Tory leadership, has revealed that he used the weight loss medication Ozempic for a brief period of time last autumn. However, he clarified that he did not particularly enjoy the experience and has since focused on losing weight through healthier eating habits and exercise.
In an interview with Politico, Jenrick stated, “To be honest, I was overweight. I took Ozempic for a short period of time, didn’t particularly enjoy it, but it was helpful. Since then, I’ve just lost weight in the normal way by eating less, eating more healthily, doing some exercise – going to the gym, going running. I’ve lost four stone in 12 months.”
Jenrick addressed rumors surrounding his sudden weight loss since leaving his post as immigration minister in December. He resigned from his ministerial position due to Rishi Sunak’s failure to implement the Rwanda asylum scheme. Now, he is vying to replace the former prime minister as Tory leader after the party’s defeat in the general election.
Fellow leadership candidate Tom Tugendhat recently denied using Ozempic but shared that he has been alcohol-free for a year and has been advised by his wife to avoid bread and potatoes in order to lose weight.
Ozempic, originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes, has gained popularity as a weight loss drug, with celebrities and social media influencers endorsing it as a “miracle drug.” Administered via weekly injections, the medication suppresses appetite, leading to weight loss. Former prime minister Boris Johnson also disclosed using Ozempic to curb his late-night snacking habits, but eventually stopped due to side effects.
While the drug has been hailed as a weight loss solution, it is only available on the NHS for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Last year, Wegovy, which contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic, was approved for weight loss with strict criteria for prescription. Pharmacists have reported a shortage of the drug due to its sudden surge in popularity, and some doctors are prescribing it off-label for obese individuals. This has caused difficulties for those with diabetes in accessing the medication and has also led to a rise in counterfeit versions.
Professor Stephen Powis, NHS England’s national medical director, has expressed concern over the misuse of Ozempic as a “quick fix” for weight loss, emphasizing that it should only be taken under medical supervision.
