Over 1.5 million individuals in the UK are currently using weight-loss injections such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide), with many obtaining these medications online without proper medical consultations. This trend has raised significant concerns among health authorities regarding potential health risks and the legality of such practices.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has emphasized the dangers associated with the unsupervised use of these GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. More severe complications such as pancreatitis and gallbladder problems have also been reported.
Additionally, there is growing concern about the impact of these medications on muscle and bone density, potentially leading to long-term health issues. A particular area of concern is the effect of Mounjaro on oral contraceptives. The MHRA has issued warnings that Mounjaro may reduce the effectiveness of oral birth control pills, especially in individuals with higher body weight.
Women are advised to use additional non-oral contraceptive methods such as condoms or intrauterine devices during treatment and for a period after discontinuation. There have been over 40 reported cases of unintended pregnancies among women using these medications highlighting the need for caution.
The surge in demand for these weight-loss injections has led to a disparity in access. While approximately 200,000 patients receive these treatments through the National Health Service (NHS), over 1.4 million obtain them via private channels. This discrepancy has raised concerns about a two-tier healthcare system where those who can afford private treatment have better access to these medications.
Health officials strongly advise against purchasing weight-loss injections from unregulated sources such as beauty salons or social media platforms. The MHRA warns that obtaining these medications without a prescription is illegal and poses significant health risks.
Patients are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals before starting any weight-loss treatment to ensure safety and efficacy.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Weight-loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy should only be used under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals. Individuals are urged to consult with their doctors before initiating any weight-loss treatment.
