The U.K. government and its drug regulator have warned against the misuse of certain weight-loss medications by people who don’t actually need them. These drugs, like Ozempic and Wegovy, are intended for specific medical conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Social media and celebrities have popularized their use for quick weight loss, but these medications should only be prescribed by a healthcare professional.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) highlighted that using these drugs without medical need can cause serious side effects, including digestive issues and more severe problems like pancreatitis and low blood sugar. There is also concern about people getting private prescriptions, which could be fake or improperly dosed.
The government emphasized that these medications are not meant for cosmetic purposes. They are intended to help people with genuine health needs, alongside a healthy diet and exercise. Using them irresponsibly, especially for the sake of appearance, can be dangerous.