24.11.25

Weight-Loss Jabs and Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know

Recent research suggests the use of popular weight-loss jabs such as Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic could lead to many travellers unintentionally invalidating their health or travel insurance by failing to declare them. In this article we cover what you need to know regarding weight-loss jabs and travel insurance.

A survey of 1,000 UK adults by market researcher Consumer Intelligence found that over a quarter of respondents were unsure whether using weight-loss jabs should be disclosed as part of a pre-existing medical condition when arranging travel insurance.

The study revealed varying perceptions of these treatments:

• 11% considered them purely cosmetic,
• 10% viewed them as lifestyle aids, and
• 24% recognised them as medical treatments.

In most cases, insurers require applicants to disclose all pre-existing medical conditions and prescribed medications ie weight-loss jabs. Failing to do so accurately can result in travel insurance cover being voided and claims being rejected.

Ian Hughes, Chief Executive of Consumer Intelligence, warned that misunderstanding how these medications should be declared could lead to significant financial consequences.

“This confusion isn’t academic – it has real consequences for millions of Britons purchasing travel and health insurance,” he said. “When a quarter of the population doesn’t know whether their medication counts as a pre-existing condition, we’re seeing a perfect storm for claim disputes and coverage gaps.”

According to the Financial Ombudsman Service, travel insurance complaints rose by 19% in 2024, with medical disclosure disputes featuring prominently among the cases reported.

Around 1.5 million people in the UK are currently prescribed GLP-1 agonist drugs, which are primarily used to manage diabetes but are increasingly prescribed to support weight loss. While these medications help regulate blood sugar and appetite, they can also lead to rapid weight reduction.

Those who declare the use of GLP-1 drugs for conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure may face higher premiums, and in some instances, cover could be declined. Mr Hughes noted that treating all GLP-1 usage as a pre-existing condition “potentially prices out customers” from obtaining affordable protection.

Weight-loss jabs travel insurance: What you need to do

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) also reminds customers of the importance of full disclosure:

“You should disclose any pre-existing medical conditions, as well as any prescribed medication or treatment. If you’re unsure of what to declare, you should contact your insurer directly to check.”

At Cox Mahon, we always recommend that clients provide full and accurate details when arranging insurance, including any prescribed medication or ongoing treatments. Our experienced team can advise on how best to disclose medical information to ensure your travel insurance remains valid and provides the protection you need while abroad.

Information provided by Harrison Law, (Cert CII) Head of Commercial & Private Clients, Cox Mahon Ltd.