On Friday I had the pleasure of catching up with Sham, Medicine Marketplace’s Superintendent Pharmacist. We had a great chat around their approach to weight loss, and what their process looks like through the customer journey.

Overview; TLDR

One of the top questions they get is whether they’re legitimate – largely because of their low prices – and I can 100% confirm that they are! So, if you want a fixed price pharmacy that doesn’t faff around with monthly discount codes, they’re a solid contender.

Consultation & Ordering

You can begin by place order on the website, or by giving them a call or email to request a consultation. Regardless of whether you’re new to weight loss medication or transferring from another pharmacy, you’ll get a message asking for: –

  1. Photographic ID – they prefer driving license or passport (but it can be expired, as long as it resembles you).
  2. Video proof of weight where you’re in a selfie position, then flip the camera to show the weight on the scales. You can do this on a live video call if you’d prefer.

If you’re new to weight loss services, a video consultation is mandatory, so the message will also let you know that someone will be in touch to book an appointment. While WhatsApp calls are the default, you can choose Microsoft Teams or Google Meet instead if you’d rather.

If you’re transferring over from another pharmacy a video consultation is optional. In this case, you’ll get a link to a quick questionnaire about your history with the medication, any side effects, and requesting confirmation of the strength you’re currently taking.

In each case whether you’re new or a transfer, they operate to a 2 working day turnaround once you’ve submitted all information and had your consultation (if required).

Re-ordering

You do need to manually reorder, but you’ll get a reminder email and WhatsApp message. You’ll need to fill out a questionnaire, and again it’s a 2 working day turnaround from when they receive all information to your order being dispatched.

Do I need to move up a dose every 4 weeks?

You can remain on any dose for as long as you’d like, however, they advise patients to move to the 5mg after 4 weeks rather than staying on the 2.5mg, in line with Eli Lilly guidelines. That said, if you’d like to stay on the 2.5mg for longer, they will support you to do so.

Support on Offer from Medicine Marketplace

They’ve got a few different options in terms of support. You can call them directly any time from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, with calls normally answered within a few minutes. You can also contact them before ordering if you have questions or you’d just prefer to chat to someone beforehand.

You can also email, if it’s sent before 5pm you’ll likely get a reply same day. The last option is WhatsApp, which is generally a two-working day response, but will be flagged for a quicker response in emergencies.

What’s Medicine Marketplace’s approach to maintenance plans?

Medicine Marketplace support use for 18-24 months. They’ll ask for your target weight, check whether this is realistic, and what this means for your BMI. Provided that you maintain a healthy weight with a BMI of above 19.5 then they will continue to support you. You can also transfer to them at any point in time, so long as you have evidence of your historic weight, and of being on medication beforehand.

Can I pick my delivery day with Medicine Marketplace?

Medicine Marketplace use Royal Mail Tracked 24 for deliveries, with a £10 flat fee. They can’t guarantee delivery on a specific day but will ask when you want it shipped out based on delivery normally being within 1-2 days of dispatch. There’s also a local pickup option from Preston, which is £5.

FAQs

Is Medicine Marketplace legitimate?

Yes, Medicine Marketplace is a legitimate and GPhC registered pharmacy.

Where is Medicine Marketplace based?

Medicine Marketplace is based in North-West England, with premises in Preston.

Do Medicine Marketplace offer discount codes?

No, Medicine Marketplace don’t promote discount or referral codes – instead they offer low fixed prices.