By Dr Kate Antrobus, GP and Medical Prescriber at Webmed Pharmacy

We are often led to believe that Acne is a condition that is supposed to affect hormonal teenagers, but in reality, there are so many struggling with this well into adulthood.  It is incredibly distressing, upsetting and frustrating for those affected, and can have a damaging impact on our self-esteem and mental health. 

In a world where social media is so prominent, and we are seeing flawless photoshopped complexions here there and everywhere, and we are spending our lives on video calls to keep in contact with friends and colleagues, we have never been more aware of our own skin. 

See our range of acne treatments Available by free online consultation As a GP, I deal with acne on a day-to-day basis with my patients, and so have lots of experience treating it as a clinician.  However, I also have a personal interest as I too suffered with severe acne when I was 25, having had clear skin throughout my teenage years.

As a result, I have tried almost every treatment we provide at Webmed Pharmacy and therefore have even better insight from a patient perspective too.

My Top Tips for Acne Management

1 - Figure out what type of acne

Unfortunately, acne treatment is not one size fits all and varies across the different types.  If you are suffering with mostly blackheads and whiteheads then this is comedonal acne, and you are likely to benefit best from treating with topical retinols or salicylic acid.  If you have inflamed and infected spots with lots of redness and even deep cystic lesions, you will probably need to add in a topical or even oral antibiotic.  If your acne seems be mostly on your cheeks and jawline it may be hormonal, and you might benefit from starting on the oral contraceptive pill.

2 - Avoid 'popping spots'

This is easier said than done, we all know how tempting a big juicy spot can be.  However. Messing around with the inflamed skin will only make it worse, and can lead to scarring, so if you can, let your skin heal without picking or popping.  If you absolutely must and cannot resist, make sure your hands are clean before touching your face, apply a hot compress and pop the tip with a sterilised pin and push gently from the sides to release the pus.

3 - Avoid touching your face

It is amazing how much we all do this without thinking, multiple times an hour.  It goes without saying that our hands are full of germs and bacteria and touching already inflamed skin with them is just going to make the situation worse.  The same goes for anything that touches your face regularly, such as your mobile phone or a desktop phone at work, make sure to regularly clean these down.

4 - Wash your make up brushes regularly

In the same vein as the point above, make up brushes and sponge, and facial flannels or towels can all make acne much worse. Not only do they pick up oil and dirt off the skin, they can harbour incredible amounts of bacteria.  To protect your skin, I would advise washing your brushes once a week.  No need for expensive kits or solutions, luke warm water and baby shampoo will work perfectly, just make sure you rinse thoroughly and dry well before use.

5 - Use the right SPF

SPF is essential to protect your skin, we all know this, and of course I suggest adding it into your daily skincare regime.  However, it is important that you choose one that is not going to make your skin worse.  Luckily there are hundreds of affordable products out there which will do just this.  Oily and greasy sun creams can clog pores and make acne worse, so look for either oil free or labelled ‘non-comedogenic’ so you can protect your face safely from those harmful UVA and UVB rays.

6 - Don't exfoliate excessively

When we have inflamed skin, it can be very tempting to exfoliate every day in an attempt to scrub the top layer of skin cells away in the hope it helps the skin heal and removes the grime and dirt.  However, this can actually be more harmful and helpful in most cases, and can cause more inflammation and even sometimes increase the risk of scarring.  I would suggest exfoliating twice a week is enough for most people.

7 - Moisturise

People with acne often fear moisturiser, thinking it is going to block pores further and exacerbate symptoms.  It is however an important step in any skin care regime, even more so in those with acne who may be using treatments which reduce sebum production which can be very drying.  Look for light or oil free moisturisers instead, and use daily.

8 - Limit hair products

There are so many wonderful hair products available these days, from hair masks and oils to scalp treatments, all promising stronger and healthier hair growth.  Whilst these can be great in the right person, if you are prone to acne, they are not for you.  Treatments on the scalp and hair will no doubt end up on the face, and will definitely make acne worse.  In the same thread if you have a fringe or layers framing your face, make sure you keep it back with a clip or headband as much as possible to avoid excess oil and dirt on the skin.

9 - Beware of expensive products

There are thousands of products out there claiming to banish blemishes and it is easy to get sucked into the promise of clear skin.  There is no need to pay excessive amounts for good skincare, often you can find what you need on the supermarket shelves.  Having a good routine is key with a twice daily cleanse and light moisturise, additional products can help depending on your skin type.

10 - Be patient

When treating acne, it takes several weeks to see results.  This can be frustrating and upsetting, especially when we are so desperate to see positive changes.  The skin takes time to heal, and we are not going to see results overnight.  When trying new treatments, you need to give it on average 6-8 weeks to know whether it has worked for you or not.

Remember

In today’s world almost every case of acne is treatable. There are lots of products and medicines available, and many knowledgeable clinicians out there to help.

Online treatments and pharmacies are very useful, but if your acne is severe, you should be seeing a GP or Dermatologist face to face.

If any of the below are true I would suggest booking an appointment to see your GP:

• Scarring or darkening of your skin
• Acne affecting your mental health
• No response to several courses of treatment

Find out more

Explore the range of acne treatments available from Webmed Pharmacy with a free online consultation and free next day delivery.

How Saxenda weight loss pens aid weight loss

Here we talk through appetite suppressant Saxenda and how long you can expect to wait before you see weight loss results.

Using Saxenda weight loss pens as part of a weight loss management plan that includes a calorie-controlled diet and exercise can help in the long term if you struggle to keep weight off. 

It works in the same way as the hormone glucagon-like-peptide (GLP-1) to regulate your appetite. This way you’ll feel fuller for longer and be able to resist snacking between meals or overeating - a contributing factor to obesity.[1] 

Saxenda dose – getting it right

Taking Saxenda can help you lose weight and keep it off, but this does require long-term commitment.

You begin by increasing the Saxenda dose by 0.6mg over the first four weeks so that from week five you’ll take the full 3mg dose (but no more). The pens are all pre-filled too, making it easier to use the correct dose.

For example:

Week 1: 0.6mg once daily for 7 days

Week 2: 1.2mg once daily for 7 days

Week 3: 1.8mg once daily for 7 days

Week 4: 2.4mg once daily for 7 days

Week 5 onwards: 3.0mg once daily

It’s important to follow this escalated Saxenda dosage to minimise any side effects and allow your body to adjust. The most common side effect is nausea affecting more than 1 out of 10 people, however, this should go away after a few days or weeks.[2]

Once you reach the full 3mg dose, you should keep going with this until your treatment ends.

Then, by week 16 you should have lost at least 5% of your total body weight – if you have, you can continue taking it. If not, it’s advised you discontinue as it may not be the right solution for you.[3]

Frustrated by slow progress?

Many people who take Saxenda give up before 16 weeks as they don’t see fast results, but it’s important to be aware that it takes time and your full commitment.[4]

Obesity is a complicated condition with over 100 different contributing factors of which many are out of your control.[5] It may be a frustrating and slow journey to embark on, but by keeping up your diet, exercise and Saxenda treatment you’ll see long-term benefits.

Why you should keep going (and when to stop)

Obesity can reduce your life expectancy by between 3 and 10 years, depending on the severity.[6] It can also cause serious complications like type 2 diabetes, asthma and high blood pressure.

But, by losing even a small amount of weight (for example 3%) you can significantly reduce the risk of these complications.[7]

Taking Saxenda for the full 16-week duration (or more) will increase your chances of losing weight and keeping it off…

In a study of people taking Saxenda, 3/5 achieved weight loss of 5% or more and 1/3 achieved more than 10% weight loss.[8]

However, it’s worth noting that you should stop treatment if you can’t stand the side effects as you increase the dose.

1. https://www.saxenda.com/about-saxenda/how-it-works.html
2. pil.2313.pdf (medicines.org.uk)
3. Saxenda® (liraglutide) dosing information | Novo Nordisk
4. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/
5. https://www.obesityuk.org.uk/what-is-obesity
6. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/
7. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/
8. https://www.saxenda.com/about-saxenda/benefits-of-saxenda.html

Author: Gemma Boak

Medically reviewed by: Superintendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons)MRPharmS 30/05/21

Saxenda side effects before and after?

Like all medicines, Saxenda can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

The most common adverse events experienced with Saxenda are gastrointestinal (GI) disorders.

The 4-week dose-escalation schedule was designed to minimise GI symptoms and most GI symptoms are mild to moderate and transient . (1)

What if I feel sick?

If you experience any nausea, it is advisable to eat smaller meals, stop eating when full and to make sure that you follow the dose escalation schedule.

What if I have diarrhoea or an upset stomach?

You may experience diarrhoea or constipation. In both cases it is very important to stay well hydrated. You can drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash – take small sips if you feel sick but do not have fruit juice or fizzy drinks as they can make diarrhoea worse.

If the diarrhoea persists then you can buy either oral rehydration sachets you mix with water to make a drink or medicine to stop diarrhoea for a few hours (like loperamide) from your local pharmacy. (2)

What if I am constipated?

To relieve constipation drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol, increase the fibre in your diet or add some wheat bran, oats or linseed to your diet. A daily walk or run can help you too as well as contributing to your weight loss! (3)

How do I prevent indigestion?

Indigestion can be remedied by cutting down on tea, coffee, cola or alcohol. Also, propping your head and shoulders up in bed can stop stomach acid coming up while you sleep.

Try to eat 3 to 4 hours before going to bed and avoid rich, spicy or fatty foods.

Avoid taking ibuprofen or aspirin as this can make indigestion worse. If you smoke, cutting down can help too.

If you are still suffering, then your local pharmacy can help with medicines that help reduce acid in your stomach, such as antacids and proton pump inhibitors (like Omeprazole 10mg). (4)

Some indigestion medicines are best taken after eating as their effects last longer. Check the information leaflet that comes with the medicines for more information.

What if I can’t sleep?

If you experience insomnia, then you can try changing your bedtime routine.

Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day and only go to bed when you feel tired. Relax at least 1 hour before bed by taking a bath or reading a book. Make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet by using thick curtains, black out blinds, wearing an eye mask or ear plugs.

Exercising regularly during the day will help and make sure that you are comfortable in bed. (5)

What if I’m showing signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)?

Early signs of a low blood sugar level include:

• sweating
• feeling tired
• dizziness
• feeling hungry
• tingling lips
• feeling shaky or trembling
• a fast or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
• becoming easily irritated, tearful, anxious or moody
• turning pale

If you experience any of the above then have a snack that contains a slow-release carbohydrate, such as a slice of bread or toast, a banana or a glass of cows' milk.

For a full range of potential side-effects visit https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2313.pdf

However, most people only experience very mild side-effects that last only a short time as your body gets used to Saxenda and some people don’t have any at all.

Other Saxenda side effects

Common: may affect up to 1 in 10 people

Problems affecting the stomach and intestines, such as indigestion (dyspepsia), inflammation in the lining of the stomach (gastritis), stomach discomfort, upper stomach pain, heartburn, feeling bloated, wind (flatulence), belching and dry mouth

• Feeling weak or tired
• Changed sense of taste
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This usually occurs the first 3 months of treatment
• Gallstones
• Injection site reactions (such as bruising, pain, irritation, itching and rash)
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). - The warning signs of low blood sugar may come on suddenly and can include: cold sweat, cool pale skin, headache, fast heartbeat, feeling sick, feeling very hungry, changes in vision, feeling sleepy, feeling weak, being nervous, being anxious, confusion, difficulty concentrating and shaking (tremor). Your doctor will tell you how to treat low blood sugar and what to do if you notice these warning signs. increase of pancreatic enzymes, such as lipase and amylase which may lead to pancreatitis (Uncommon: may affect up to 1 in 100 people) .
• Loss of fluids (dehydration). This is more likely to occur at the start of treatment and may be due to being sick (vomiting), feeling sick (nausea) and diarrhoea
• Inflamed gall bladder
• Allergic reactions including skin rash
• Feeling generally unwell
• Faster pulse - Rare: may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people.
• Reduced kidney function - Acute kidney failure. Signs may include reduction in urine volume, metallic taste in mouth and easily bruising.

Worried about Saxenda side effects before and after?

To ensure Saxenda is suitable for you, we offer a free online consultation which is reviewed by our Doctors. Call Phone 0161 491 1899 if you have concerns or want to discuss Saxenda side effects with our pharmacy team.

1. Novo Nordisk Limited. Saxenda Summary of Product Characteristics [cited 2nd March 2021] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2313#gref

1. NHS diarrhoea and vomiting [cited 2nd March 2021] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/diarrhoea-and-vomiting/

1. NHS Constipation [cited 2nd March 2021] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/

1. NHS Indigestion [cited 2nd March 2021] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/indigestion/

1. NHS. Insomnia [cited 2nd March 2021] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/insomnia/

1. NHS. Hypoglycaemia [cited 2nd March 2021] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/low-blood-sugar-hypoglycaemia/

Author: Gemma Boak

Medically reviewed by: Superintendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons)MRPharmS 02/03/21

More than fake news

We have all become familiar with the great convenience of purchasing goods online but how safe and reliable can the relatively uncontrolled web be, when it comes to buying medicines?

Buying medicines online, in the comfort of your own home, without having to take time off work or interrupt your busy schedule to visit your GP is a service we would all like to access. It becomes even more attractive if the nature of your treatment is for sensitive or intimate conditions.

Webmed Pharmacy Ltd, a fully approved and Regulated UK Pharmacy, only supply medicines from UK wholesalers.

You can confidentially order by completing a confidential online medical consultation and, if suitable, will be prescribed your treatment by our GMC regulated doctor.

Webmed Pharmacy specialises in treatments where patients may feel embarrassed or awkward talking to their GP; or simply find it difficult to get an appointment; or aren’t able to take time off from work.

We provide a secure next working day delivery; within a 1 hour time slot, to the vast majority of postcodes in the UK. Or you can Click & Collect with a choice of 4,500+ pickup shops.

All our products are delivered in discreet packaging with no mention of the contents or where it is from.

A simple guide of how to check for genuine medicines online 

Regulated

All websites selling prescription medication that is issued by a General Medical Council (GMC) doctor in England, should be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The CQC are a government appointed, independent regulator of health and social care. They should have a clickable link that will take you to the CQC register to show you that they are compliant*
*or equivalent regulator in Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales

Registered

To check if the website is legitimately registered, click on the logos which should take you through to their registers.

Reliable

With a 5* Trust Pilot score and an out-of-hours service for confidential advice and delivery of test results; we aim to offer an unrivalled personal service when it means the most to you.

We care at Webmed Pharmacy Ltd.

Written by: Superintendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons)MRPharmS 03/02/20

Updated and reviewed 27/02/21

What is Ozempic?

Recently, the media have been promoting a product called Ozempic and have quoted many success stories from people who have achieved dramatic weight loss by using it.

However, Ozempic is not licensed for weight loss and is actually licenced for use in the UK, to control type 2 diabetes.

Is there an alternative to Ozempic?

Yes, there is a very effective product called Saxenda, this is licenced in the UK for weight loss by the MHRA which is available now, to help make your weight loss journey much more successful.

Saxenda dramatically reduces your appetite and combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle can help you to achieve your weight loss goal.

What is the main difference between  Ozempic and Saxenda?

On reading the media articles it would appear, that the main difference between Saxenda and Ozempic, is that Saxenda is a daily injection and Ozempic is a weekly injection.

However, the most important difference between the two is, that Saxenda is licenced for use as weight loss medication in the UK and Ozempic is not.

Unfortunately, there are a few unscrupulous websites and weight loss clinics, that are selling Ozempic, putting profit before safety.

Is Ozempic safe and legal for weight loss?

Before a medicine can be widely used in the UK, it must first be granted a license.

Licences are only granted if strict safety and quality standards are met. In the UK, licences are granted by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). For more detail see the "MHRA Licence" section below.

In other words, Ozempic has not undergone clinical trials to see if it is effective and safe in treating weight loss, so does not have a product license in the UK for treating obesity.

Ozempic  has a product licence for controlling Type 2 diabetes, not for weight loss.

It contains the active substance Liraglutide which helps aid adults with excess weight ( BMI ≥28 ), who also have weight-related medical problems or those with obesity (BMI ≥30), to lose weight and keep the weight off. 

Will Ozempic be available in the future for weight loss?

In fact, Ozempic will never be granted a product licence for weight loss, as it is a brand name. It is the active ingredient in Ozempic called Semaglutide, that is currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of weight loss.

Semaglutide has now been granted a product licence for weight loss under the brand name of Wegovy and will be a different dosage to that used for diabetic control. We understand from the latest information that Wegovy will become available in the UK during the Spring of 2023.

In the meantime, it is safer to use the licenced product Saxenda.

Medically reviewed by
Superintendent pharmacist Margaret Hudson BSc(Hons) MRPharmS
16 February 2021 and updated 21 September 2022 and updated 21 November 2022

How seriously do you take your sexual health? Unfortunately, many people don’t give it a second thought until they catch a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

But, it’s something you make a priority from the time you become sexually active, because it’s about keeping you – and your partner – safe.

With January 14 designated STIQ Day, which is dedicated to raising awareness about sexual health, it’s a good time to think about if you would benefit from a sexual health check up – especially after the festive period, if you had casual sex, unprotected sex or do not have regular partner.

An STI is not the Christmas gift you want to give or receive, but cases are rising across the UK, and it’s not just young sexually active people who are affected: the figures among the over-65s rose by 41% between 2014 and 2018 (1).

What is an STI?

Sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, genital warts, genital herpes and trichomoniasis vaginalis – are passed from one person to another when having unprotected sexual contact.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to know if you have an STI because you’ll develop no symptoms. For instance, about half of men and between 70% and 80% of women have no chlamydia symptoms, but if it is left untreated, men can become infertile, while women are at greater risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). It’s also a major cause of ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage.

STIs in the UK

Public Health England (PHE) published a report in September 2020 (2), which showed a 5% increase in STIs between 2018 and 2019, with 468,342 diagnoses, while in Scotland, Health Protection Scotland (3) published two reports in May 2020, which revealed that chlamydia was the most reported STI in 2019, with 17,366 diagnoses – up 6% from the previous year. It’s a similar picture in Wales (4) and Northern Ireland (5).

Should you be worried about STIs?

It depends on how sexually active you are and whether you have a regular partner or not, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you don’t have a regular partner or have casual sex without using condoms, it’s a good idea to have a sexual health check-up, whichscreensfor STIs and HIV, every year.

PHE recommends annual chlamydia screening for anyone aged 25 and under who is sexually active or when changing sexual partner. For gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, PHE recommends annual HIV and STI testing, or every three months if you are having unprotected sex with casual or new partners (6).

You don’t have to be referred to your local sexual health clinic by your GP – you can book an appointment direct and you don’t have to have any symptoms to see a medical professional.

The process is straightforward: you’ll be asked about your sexual history – remember these are professionals; no one’s judging you and there is no need to feel embarrassed – and also about any medical conditions or prescription medicines.

You may be asked to provide a test sample – this could be blood or urine, or it could be a urethra or vaginal swab, or a swab from a genital sore, depending on what you are being tested for.

If your results show you have an STI you’ll be prescribed an appropriate antibiotic or antiviral treatment.

What if I think I have an STI?

Don’t delay if you think you have an STI or if a sexual partner contacts you to say they have one. Many infections are easily treatable, but if you ignore the symptoms, you risk avoidable health problems later on.

If you are unable to get to a clinic or your GP, you can order an at-home testing kit for the most common STIs, as well as sexual health screening tests and tests for HIV/ PrEP.

We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive, high quality and confidential testing and treatment service.

And be assured: the test kit and treatment you receive from WebMed Pharmacy is the same as you would have at any GP or sexual health clinic, because we all follow the same medical guidelines.

Which treatment do I need?

You’ll be asked to complete a confidential medical questionnaire, which will be reviewed by our GPs, who will prescribe the appropriate treatment for your infection.

We offer 12 different tests and treatments:

Chlamydia

Gonorrhoea

Trichomoniasis vaginalis

2-in-1 test – for gonorrhoea and Chlamydia

3-in-1 test – for gonorrhoea, Chlamydia and trichomoniasis vaginalis

7-in-1 test – for gonorrhoea, Clamydia, trichomoniasis vaginalis, genital herpes, bacterial vaginosis, mycoplasma genitalium and ureaplasma urealyticum.

Home HIV Self Test

HIV Lab Test

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) prep treatment test kit

PrEP annual test

Genital herpes treatments

Test kits are sent to The Doctors Laboratory (TDL), the largest independent providers of clinical laboratory diagnostic services in the UK, and we guarantee to turn around results quickly:

• For HIV lab tests, the lab sends us the results within 24 hours of receiving the sample
• For most other tests, we receive the results within 48 hours of the lab receiving the sample.

How Do I Receive the Test?

We use DPD for all mainland UK deliveries and Royal Mail Special Delivery for the Scottish Highlands and islands. Find out how our discreet delivery works.

Don’t leave your sexual health to chance – stay informed and get tested when you need to. If you are in any doubt, contact us today via email at: team@webmedpharmacy.co.uk or telephone: 0161 491 1899.

References

1. https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/sexually-transmitted-infections-pensioners-up-17718889

2. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/914184/STI_NCSP_report_2019.pdf

3. https://www.hps.scot.nhs.uk/publications/hps-weekly-report/volume-54/issue-21/sti-diagnoses-continue-to-rise-in-scotland/

4. https://phw.nhs.wales/topics/sexual-health/sexual-health-reports/sexual-health-in-wales-surveillance-scheme-quarterly-report-july-2019/

5. https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/2020-11/STI%20Surveillance%20Report%202020%20%282019%20data%29.pdf

6. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/914184/STI_NCSP_report_2019.pdf p6

Written by Jayne Howarth 
13 January 2021

The failure rate for New Year’s resolutions is 80%…but don’t worry, it’s not your fault (1).

There are many reasons why New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside before Valentine’s day.

Some people blame the word ‘resolution’ and when you stop and think about it...it’s not very inspiring is it?

Especially when it comes to losing weight…do you feel resolute?

Or do you feel anxious because you’ve tried to lose weight (many times) before and failed? Deep down are you afraid this will be yet another disappointment? Another failure in the bag alongside Slimming World and the crossfit membership card.

That’s why we wanted to give you a few pointers to help you achieve your New Year’s goal and lose 5% of your body weight (goals are more successful if you have a clear outcome...of course you don’t have to choose this as your number!).

The natural approach to weight loss

We know you’ve tried this. You’ve already been told sooooo many times to eat less and move more. We understand that losing weight is much more complicated than that.

But learning how to give your body the nutrition it needs and the movement it needs is critical for long-term health, so it’s worth investing time and energy into getting it right. The NHS have a great guide here if you need one.

Bariatric surgery

Surgery should be a last resort. You shouldn’t consider this unless your BMI is above 40 or you have a BMI over 35 and a serious medical condition that could be improved with weight loss (2). If lifestyle changes aren’t working for you, it’s better to try something less invasive first, if it’s safe for you to do so.

Medication

The medication route is not for everyone and it should not replace a low calorie diet and exercise. In fact, the best results are seen when people combine both.

Saxenda -  a UK licenced appetite suppressant

Saxenda came about when scientists noticed that a new drug for Type 2 Diabetes was causing significant weight loss.

Clinical trials followed and Liraglutide was licenced for weight loss under the brand name Saxenda. (3)

Saxenda is licenced as an appetite suppressant, which means you don’t feel as hungry.

Interestingly, in a set of experiments where scientists measured brain activity, overweight people who were given Saxenda were less excited by food images than they were before (3).

If you get excited when looking at food then this could also help manage your calorie intake.

Saxenda might also be a good option if you start to feel really hungry when you’re losing weight on a calorie restricted diet, preventing you from regaining the weight you lose.

Let’s talk numbers…

Does Saxenda really work?

Saxenda won’t work for everyone as we are all different, but clinical studies have shown significant results.

Liraglutide (Saxenda) was given to a group of overweight people taking part in a lifestyle counselling programme, and their weight loss was compared to other people in the programme who did not take Saxenda.

The group taking Saxenda lost more weight in total. More than half (63%) of the participants lost more than 5% of their original body weight and 25-33% of participants achieved a 10% loss (approximately 10kg).(4)

While Saxenda is not a miracle drug, it is another tool in the box when it comes to tackling excess weight.

Plus the folks at Saxenda know what you need to get your excess weight off.

This is why they offer a free lifestyle app when you start your weight loss journey with them to help you track and monitor your health and lifestyle goals.

They also offer health coaching at no extra cost - simply submit your question through the app and a Liva health coach will get back to you within 48 hours. (5)

If you think Saxenda might be something you want to learn more about, then it’s worth reading our diary of a yo-yo dieter series where you can follow a Weight Watchers Coach and her experiences trying Saxenda.

You can also add these to your reading list: Is sugar the new enemy and Saxenda: the newest recruit into the battle against obesity.

Looking for a review of Saxenda? You’ll enjoy our diary of a yo-yo dieter series.

References

1. Forbes The top 3 reasons new years resolutions fail and how yours can succeed [cited 26/11/20] Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/kathycaprino/2019/12/21/the-top-3-reasons-new-years-resolutions-fail-and-how-yours-can-succeed/?sh=4fbb3b656992
2. NHS. Treatment : Obesity. [cited 26/11/20] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/obesity/treatment/
3. Ladenheim, E. Liraglutide and obesity: a review of the data so far Drug Design, Development and Therapy. 2015. [cited 26/11/20] Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4386791/pdf/dddt-9-1867.pdf
4. Whitten, S et al Liraglutide (Saxenda) for Weight Loss STEPS New Drug Reviews. 2016. [cited 26/11/20] Available at: https://www.aafp.org/afp/2016/0715/afp20160715p161.pdf
5. Saxenda [cited 26/11/20] Available at: https://www.saxenda.com/home.html

As we settle into another lockdown you may be wondering how you can spend your Friday nights now your favourite pubs and restaurants are shut.

One of the most fun replacements we can think of is to enjoy spending quality time with your partner in the bedroom. And while having an early night might be tempting if you’re overrun with kids, we’re talking about sex.

But what if sex is the cause of a great deal of anxiety? The great news is that if you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction, there are lots of things you can do to get your confidence (and your sex life) back on track.

More men are familiar with ED than they’re letting on

The first thing you need to know is that you’re not alone. Erectile dysfunction is something that affects more than half…yes half of men over the age of 40. (1)

So why are you not chatting about this at the bar with your mates?

Don’t worry, we know the answer already. It’s embarrassing, frustrating and it can be depressing. And because we know how you feel, we have developed a service that takes all of the embarrassment out of treating your erection problems (but more on that later).

Medications used to treat erectile dysfunction help by improving blood flow to your penis when you get sexually excited. This helps whether you are simply ‘a bit soft’ or you lose your erection part way through sexual playtime.

Common causes of erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is usually a symptom of another condition, which is why it’s important to see your G.P. as soon as you are able to.

The main culprits are:

• Physical problems which cause narrowing of the blood vessels going to the penis. This can be associated with high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes. Physical injury and hormonal problems can also cause this.
• Psychological factors include stress, anxiety, depression and relationship problems.
• Side-effects of other medications including those for high blood pressure, prostate problems, high cholesterol, depression and anxiety. You can find out more about specific medications here.
• Lifestyle can also contribute to ED, so if you’re overweight, smoke, drink excessively or take recreational drugs, you are more likely to suffer from these symptoms.(2)

Buying Viagra online in the UK

Viagra is one of the more well known erectile dysfunction drugs but what you might not know is that Viagra is actually a brand name.

Sildenafil is the active component in Viagra, and since the patent (legal property of the formula and manufacturing rights) expired, you can now buy Sildenafil much more cheaply than you can buy Viagra.

Sildenafil (Viagra) starts to work after around 30-60 minutes and lasts roughly 4-6 hours (3).

It’s a good option if you know you're going to need it, and can take it early enough for it to work. Just be aware that Sildenafil (Viagra) works best on an empty stomach so you may want to factor that into date night planning (we recommend reading the next section about Tadalafil if you're going for a dinner date).

Contrary to what you see in comedy sketches on T.V., you should* only get an erection if you are sexually aroused, so it should be ok to take before bedtime.

Do you need a prescription to buy Sildenafil (Viagra)?

Whether you are buying in person from a pharmacy, or from a GPhC registered online pharmacy like Webmed Pharmacy, some of these tablets require a prescription.

Need a prescription
(we can write you one free of charge) 

• Sildenafil (25mg, 50mg & 100mg tablets)
• Viagra (25mg & 100mg) 

Can buy without a prescription

• Viagra Connect (50mg tablet)
  

When you order with us, you simply complete an online medical questionnaire so our doctor can assess whether the prescription is suitable for you. The doctor then issues a prescription electronically to our pharmacy where we dispense and deliver it directly to you in anonymous packaging using DPD next working day delivery (or local drop off point).

Buying Tadalafil (Cialis) online in the U.K

Tadalafil works in a similar way to Sildenafil as it increases blood flow to the penis.

Tadalafil is the name of the active component of Cialis, and like with Viagra, Cialis is the brand name and is usually more expensive to purchase.

There are some distinct advantages to using Tadalafil compared to some of the other erectile dysfunction medications out there (it’s certainly one of our favourites) because it does two things that we think are beneficial to many couples.

1. It is still effective if taken with food, so your dinner date plans can go ahead as scheduled.
2. The duration of action is up to 36 hours. So you can take this on Friday night, and get your flirt on all weekend without having to worry about taking a tablet ‘at the right time’. For this reason Tadalafil is sometimes referred to as ‘the weekend pill’ (4).

If you like the idea of being able to get an erection whenever you want, you may want to try Tadalafil Daily. This is a lower dose taken on a daily basis so you can be ready for action anytime and any place you choose.

Do you need a prescription to buy Tadalafil (Cialis)?

Whether you are buying in person from a pharmacy or from a GPhC registered online pharmacy like Webmed Pharmacy, all of these tablets require a prescription.

We can write you a prescription for free using our discreet online service.

When you order with us, you simply complete an online medical questionnaire so our doctor can assess whether the medication is suitable for you. The doctor then issues a prescription electronically to our pharmacy where we dispense and deliver it directly to you in anonymous packaging using DPD next working day delivery.

Need a prescription
(we can write you one free of charge) 

• Tadalfil On Demand (10mg & 20mg tablets) 
• Tadalafil Daily (2.5mg & 5mg tablets) 
• Cialis On Demand (10mg & 20mg tablets) 
• Cialis Daily (2.5mg, 5mg tablets) 

How to buy quality erectile dysfunction tablets online in the U.K. (and avoid illegal and potentially dangerous vendors).

It’s illegal to buy prescription only medicine unless a doctor has written a prescription specifically for you. This may be your G.P. or one of our experienced doctors.

We understand that it can feel embarrassing to have to talk to someone about your experiences which is why we make the process as quick and painless as possible. No face to face consultation is needed, our doctor will assess your suitability from the online medical questionnaire, and if additional clarification is needed you will be asked via the messaging centre on the website.

If you are looking at other online vendors then make sure they are a registered and regulated pharmacy like we are. This means you can know that you are receiving genuine, effective medication which follows the stringent quality testing and safety procedures that medicines in the U.K. must undergo.

Fake medicines are often manufactured to look identical to the genuine article so it is essential you buy E.D. tablets from a trusted vendor. You can find our quality seals, Pharmacy registration information and Quality Care Commision rating on the bottom of every page.

Other articles you may find useful:

• What are the best value erectile dysfunction pills?
  https://webmedpharmacy.co.uk/blog/cheapest-erectile-dysfunction-pills
• Why do younger men suffer from erectile dysfunction
  https://webmedpharmacy.co.uk/blog/why-do-young-men-suffer-from-erectile-dysfunction
• What’s the best erectile dysfuntion treatment Sildenafil or Tadalafill
  https://webmedpharmacy.co.uk/blog/whats-the-best-erectile-dysfunction-ed-treament-sildenafil-or-tadalafil

*Note: If you have an erection that lasts more than 4 hours then you must contact your doctor immediately.

References

1. Hackett et al. British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on the Management of Erectile Dysfunction in Men—2017 The Journal of Sexual Medicine Available at: http://www.bssm.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/BSSM-ED-guidelines-2018-1.pdf [cited 20/11/20]
2. Webmed Pharmacy. What Causes Erectile Dysfunction and what I can do about it [cited 20/11/20] Available at: https://webmedpharmacy.co.uk/blog/2016/09/what-causes-erectile-dysfunction-what-can-i-do-about-it
3. Viagra Patient Information Leaflet  [cited 20/11/20] Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1072.pdf
4. Tadalafil Patient Information leaflet  [cited 20/11/20] Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.8637.pdf

There’s an estimated 7.4 million men suffering with hair loss in the UK. That’s a lot of men.(1)

Some men agonise about a receding hairline years before they see the first signs. If your dad started to lose his hair early you may have worried about hair loss for a very long time.

Hair loss in men is extremely common, yet many don’t approach their GP, seek help or even want to talk about it through fear of embarrassment or awkwardness. You may feel like this yourself?

Either way, there’s no need to suffer in silence – there are hair loss treatments available.

Worried about hair loss?

You’re not alone

For some men, male pattern baldness, or Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), is a source of great anxiety – from trouble adjusting to a new, changing image through to depression, and every other emotion in between (2).

It can be hard when your appearance changes drastically, even if it’s gradual or from a young age. And while some are able to accept it as a natural part of life, others struggle with their new and different identity.

There’s no right or wrong way to deal with it.

What are the causes of hair loss?

When it comes to male pattern baldness, the causes are out of your control. It can be hereditary or due to hormones and simply your age. It’s attributed to an increase in the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes your hair follicles to produce shorter and thinner hair (2).

It typically begins with thinning on your crown and temples, so your scalp becomes visible, and while nothing can be done to prevent hair loss, you can slow down the process. (3) Clinical trials showed that finasteride 1mg helps to reverse the balding process, with 90% prevention and 66% of people seeing increased hair growth.

If you find that your hair is falling out in tufts or in a random pattern, then you may be suffering from a different type of alopecia, which your GP will need to look at.

Hair loss treatments

If you’re in the early stages of losing your hair, there is a way to stop it from progressing and encourage regrowth.

Finasteride

Finasteride (Brand name Propecia) is a tablet you take on a daily basis that works to inhibit the DHT hormone, which in turn promotes natural re-growth. It’s one of the most effective treatments available for male pattern baldness and you can expect to see changes within a few months. (2,3)

To promote your hair regrowth you can combine this hair loss tablet with topical treatments, including a shampoo for hair loss and a conditioner that help treat dry, irritated scalps. (4)

Regaine

Then there’s Regaine, containing Minoxidil 5%, which stimulates blood flow to your hair follicles. You apply it to your hair twice a day to help with re-growth and thickening of the hair follicles.(2)
 

Tick them off your wish list in just a few clicks

The fact is you can treat your hair loss easily, without having to visit a GP or specialist.

We have cost-effective bundles recommended by Dr Mabroor Bhatty (one of the UK’s leading hair transplant and cosmetic surgeons) to help you start treating your hair loss.

For early signs of hair loss or thinning hair

You need the Scalp Maintenance bundle.

• Finasteride 1mg tablets
• Scalp Therapy Shampoo

Early-stage hair loss and fine or fragile hair

You need the Scalp Maintenance Plus bundle.

• Finasteride 1mg tablets
• Scalp Therapy Shampoo
• Scalp Therapy Conditioner

Optimise hair regrowth - great for longer hair

You need the Solution Growth Boost bundle.

• Finasteride 1mg tablets
• Scalp Therapy Shampoo
• Scalp Therapy Conditioner
• Regaine Extra Strength Solution

Optimise hair regrowth - great for shorter, frequently styled hair

You need the Foam Growth Boost bundle.

• Finasteride 1mg tablets
• Scalp Therapy Shampoo
• Scalp Therapy Conditioner
• Regaine Extra Strength Foam

You’ll need to complete an online consultation before buying any treatment to make sure it’s right for you, but don’t worry. Our primary goal is to provide you with a completely confidential, discreet and high-quality service. Simply click here to get started.

P.S- Tell Santa next working day delivery is standard as long as you the big man himself orders before 4pm.

Other articles you may like:

1. Male pattern baldness: getting to the root of the problem
   https://webmedpharmacy.co.uk/blog/male-pattern-baldness
2. Hair today and gone tomorrow - the distressing condition of men’s hair loss and the latest remedie https://webmedpharmacy.co.uk/blog/2015/10/hair-loss-in-men-and-remedies
3. What’s happened to Aindeem?
   https://webmedpharmacy.co.uk/blog/whats-happened-to-aindeem

References

1. Men’s Health Forum. Hair loss FAQs   [Cited at 20/11/2020] Available at: https://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/hair-loss-faqs
2. Cranwell, W. et al  Male Androgenetic Alopecia. 1996. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25905192/ PMID: 25905192 [Cited at 20/11/2020]
3. Alopecia UK. Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss) [Cited at 20/11/2020] Available at: https://www.alopecia.org.uk/androgenetic-alopecia-pattern-hair-loss
4. BAD Androgenetic Alopecia [Cited at 20/11/2020] Available at: https://www.bad.org.uk/shared/get-file.ashx?id=153&itemtype=document

Written by Gemma Boak 3rd December 2020 

With Covid-19 cases holding firm in many parts of the UK, it’s no surprise that some businesses and individuals are taking testing matters into their own hands.

While NHS tests are rightly reserved for those who have Covid symptoms – the main ones being a new and continuous cough, a loss of taste or smell, or a high temperature – private antigen testing, which detects if you currently are positive for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that leads to Covid-19, is also available.

This provides a safety net for those who are concerned they have been exposed to someone with the virus or who have been away to a high-risk location. They are also providing invaluable to some businesses that want to provide regular testing for staff to help minimise risks within the workforce and even television companies that want to keep their crews and cast safe.

There are clear advantages to providing regular testing, but it is essential that any kits you order are CE marked because these are the only ones that meet the Government’s stringent quality standards.

There could be other reasons why you want to have peace of mind and order a test: as we face the end of the autumn university term and students head back to home for the Christmas break this month (December 2020), ordering a PCR swab kit on their return to the household could help to provide additional peace of mind for families during the festive season.

Over the past few months, we have seen a growing number of organisations requesting these tests and we even managed the Covid testing programme for INEOS TEAM UK as part of their preparations to travel to New Zealand to compete in the  forthcoming America’s Cup, racing in a yacht that was assisted in the design  by the Mercedes AMG Formula 1 Team.
 

So, what does each test do?

Covid-19 home tests

If you are ineligible for an NHS antigen (Covid-19) test, it is possible to order a private polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test to carry out in your own home.

These antigen swab tests are exactly the same as those used by the NHS and they can detect if you have SARS-CoV-2, the virus that leads to Covid-19, if you have symptoms or if you were in contact with someone between one and five days prior who has tested positive.

While the test will pick up if you are positive or negative at the time, it is important to remember that it could take up to two weeks for you to display symptoms.

The swab test involves taking a single combined swab of your mouth and then your nose. It works by detecting RNA (ribonucleic acid), which provides the genetic information of the virus to establish if someone has the virus, even very early on in the infection stage.

The good news is that these tests are very accurate, too. The PCR swab assays we use are from The Doctors Laboratory, which is the largest independent provider of clinical laboratory diagnostic services in the UK and which also supplies the NHS. They have a minimum sensitivity of 98%, which means the rate for detecting an individual as having the virus is extremely high. This results in very few false positives. They also have a specificity of 100%, which means all individuals without the virus are correctly identified as being healthy.

Antibody tests

Antibody tests are designed to tell you if you have had Covid-19 – not if you are currently infected.

These simple-to-use CE-marked tests are different from the antigen tests as they require a small sample of blood, produced by using a sterile lancet that is supplied in the testing kit.

The lancet is used to prick the side of your middle or ring finger and then a small amount of blood is deposited into the collection tube.

We supply the Roche Diagnostics Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 assay, which is approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulations Authority (MHRA) and is UKAS (ISO15189) accredited.

It is a tried and tested procedure, with a minimum sensitivity of 97.4% and a specificity of 100% and has been evaluated as a total antibody assay that will detect both IgG and IgM antibodies.

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies are the most common and are found in the blood and body fluids. They protect against both bacterial and viral infections. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies are mainly located in the blood and lymph fluid and are the first antibodies the body makes when it is fighting a new infection.

It is important to note that you should not consider having an antibody test until 14 days after exposure to someone with Covid-19 or onset of symptoms of the virus. This is because the body will not have developed sufficient antibodies to be detected by the test.

However, if you believe you may have had the virus but not developed any symptoms (ie, you were asymptomatic) in the past few months, the antibody test may well be suitable.

If your test comes back positive for antibodies, it means you have had Covid-19. However, because little is understood about our immune response to SARS-CoV-2, it is not safe to assume you are fully or partially immune from future infection because it is not yet known how long immunity can last.

It is crucial, therefore, that you continue to follow the Government’s social distancing guidelines.

Want to order a test?

Order a PCR test or antibody test between Monday and Friday before 4pm, you will receive it the next working day via courier (you can upgrade the delivery option if ordering on a Friday to ensure Saturday delivery). Once you have completed the PCR swab test, place the sample in the pre-paid envelope and post it in a priority postbox. Blood samples can be posted in any post box. You will receive the results of the PCR test between 48 and 72 hours after the lab has taken delivery of the sample and between 24-48 hours for the antibody test.

You can find out more about our antigen PCR tests and antibody tests, but if you have any queries or need to speak to us about bulk ordering swab test kits for your business, sports team or organisation, you can contact us at: team@webmedpharmacy.co.uk or by phone on: 0161 491 1899. We’re open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.

Written by: Jayne Howarth, November 27th 2020.