Many of us will have committed to losing weight this January, whether through healthy eating, exercise, or even medication. And recent research has indicated possible health benefits of weight loss jags that go beyond dropping a stone or two.
But unlicensed versions of medications from unregulated sellers are on the rise, and after a recent surge in hospitalisations due to weight loss jabs, it’s more important than ever to know that the medication you’re taking is legitimate.
Dr Bhavini Shah, a GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, has shared what you should look out for when privately purchasing weight loss medication. Here’s everything you need to know to keep yourself safe from buying illegitimate weight loss meds.
How to spot fake weight loss injections
Prescribing criteria
Not all weight loss medications are suitable for everyone – some require a prescription.
“Weight loss medications, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, are not suitable for everyone. These medicines are not a short-term weight loss solution intended for those with a healthy weight wanting to lose weight”, explains Dr Shah.
“In the UK, you need a prescription for both semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy) and tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro). It’s illegal to distribute either medication without a prescription.”
While there are certain requirements to obtaining weight loss prescriptions, buying from high street shops or from people on social media can have consequences.
The doctor says: “Many negative stories about medicated weight loss have resulted from patients obtaining unlicensed versions of medications from unregulated sellers, such as high street beauty salons and social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
“In contrast, safe prescribers put strict prescribing criteria in place to ensure patient safety and offer ongoing professional support to help patients through their weight loss journey.”
Sold cheaply online
The doctor also warns against buying medicines online, or from unfamiliar or unverified sources. And if the product seems remarkably cheap, that’s a big red flag.
While it’s illegal to sell certain substances without a prescription, it’s possible that you could be sold fake weight loss medication if you’re not careful. And the ingredients label won’t always tell the truth.
“Falsified weight loss medicines have been detected across the world, including the UK. Some do not contain the active ingredient stated, while others contain another undeclared active ingredient,” says Shah.
“Taking these medications puts individuals at risk of everything from allergic reactions to uncontrolled blood sugar levels, which could cause blurred vision, palpitations, seizures, or loss of consciousness. The potential contamination also poses a risk of infection that can range from mild to severe, and even be life-threatening.
“To protect themselves against falsified medicines, The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends patients get a prescription from a licensed doctor via an authorised or licensed pharmacy.”
Safety checks for prescriptions
Most health services require identity checks before someone can pick up a prescription and if you’re not being asked to do this, it may be a warning sign.
LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor also requires patients to answer a series of medical questions to assess suitability. BMI and identity checks are also required by the service.
This involves patients filming themselves from the side, front and back to prove their identity. They’re also required to film themselves holding a valid ID before they can get their online prescription.
The BMI check verifies if the patient is a suitable weight to take the medication.
“Safe prescribers require patients to provide their GP’s contact details and will inform the GP that they’ve started weight loss treatment”, adds the doctor.
Ongoing support
When taking weight loss medication, it’s vital to keep in touch with health services who can track your progress.
Dr Shah concluded: “It’s important to understand that it’s not just about obtaining a prescription. It’s vital that after beginning treatment, patients receive ongoing support from a qualified medical professional.”
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