Serious concerns have emerged about falsified weight loss medicines circulating in the UK market, posing significant health risks to Britons.
GP Dr Bhavini Shah warned that undeclared ingredients in the counterfeit products could lead to severe consequences, including uncontrolled blood sugar levels and allergic reactions.
"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," Dr Shah explained.
She cautioned that "taking these medications puts individuals at risk of everything from allergic reactions to uncontrolled blood sugar levels, which can cause serious harm".
Using falsified weight loss drugs could cause uncontrolled blood sugar levels
GETTYThe presence of these dangerous counterfeits underscores the importance of obtaining weight loss medications through legitimate medical channels, with several evidence-based options available through the NHS and private providers.
Independent Prescribing Pharmacist Sheena Bagga notes that prescription medications "represent an important advancement in treating obesity and its associated health complications".
The main treatments include semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), both GLP-1 receptor agonists administered via pre-filled pen devices. Orlistat offers a tablet alternative for those preferring non-injectable options.
Eligibility typically requires a BMI exceeding 30, or above 28 with weight-related risk factors. A thorough clinical assessment remains essential before any prescription to ensure that the weight loss medication suits individual circumstances.
New research reveals that more than half of UK adults harbour concerns about their weight, with many finding traditional approaches ineffective.
A survey of 500 adults conducted by LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor found that 62 per cent are worried about their weight, including 16 per cent who report being very worried.
The findings highlight widespread struggles with conventional weight loss methods. More than three-quarters of respondents had previously attempted to shed pounds through exercise, whilst 72 per cent had tried dieting.
However, success rates proved disappointing. Over a third of those who tried exercise were unsuccessful, and 41 per cent failed to achieve their goals through dieting alone.
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Eligibility for weight loss jabs typically requires a BMI exceeding 30
GETTYThe survey indicates growing interest in pharmaceutical interventions, with 23 per cent of respondents considering medicated weight loss options.
Currently, 11 per cent are already using some form of medication, whether injectable or oral, whilst 8 per cent are actively seeking to begin treatment.
A further 16 per cent expressed interest but felt they required more information about available options. Nearly two-thirds of participants said they would consider medical intervention if struggling with obesity.
Overall attitudes towards medicated weight loss prove largely positive, with 59 per cent viewing such treatments favourably.
This shift in perception comes as traditional methods continue to disappoint those seeking sustainable weight reduction.
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