With the rise of illegal advertisements for prescription weight loss medications on social media, combined with misleading claims of rapid slimming solutions, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is urging the public to prioritise their health this summer. The agency highlights the dangers associated with improper use of prescription medications and the risks of purchasing counterfeit products online.
Adhering to Prescribed Guidelines for GLP-1 Medications
For individuals prescribed GLP-1 weight-loss medications, it is essential to adhere strictly to the dosage recommended by a healthcare professional. Medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro), and liraglutide (Saxenda) should only be taken as directed. Attempting to accelerate weight loss by increasing the prescribed dosage can lead to serious health complications.
Accompanying the use of GLP-1 medications with a balanced diet and an active lifestyle is crucial. Whether the purpose of the prescription is for diabetes management or weight loss, maintaining proper nutrition and exercise supports overall health, muscle, and bone integrity, particularly as dietary changes occur.
Avoiding Counterfeit Weight-Loss Products
If you find yourself ineligible for a prescription for weight-loss medications, resist the temptation to purchase from unregulated online platforms or social media vendors. In the UK, GLP-1 medications are deemed safe and effective only for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 or higher. Engaging with rogue sellers poses significant risks, as the contents of their products are often unknown, and may include harmful contaminants.
Particularly concerning is the online buzz surrounding retatrutide, which has not received approval for use in the UK. Purchasing this product from unauthorised sources is illegal and poses serious health risks, as these items have not undergone rigorous testing for safety or efficacy, and there is no assurance they even contain the specified medication.
Andy Morling, head of the MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit, stated, “Rogue sellers are motivated by profit rather than your safety, and the counterfeit medicines they provide could endanger your health. These products may not contain the GLP-1 medication you believe you are acquiring, and they could potentially be contaminated with harmful substances. Always be cautious of deals that appear too good to be true, and verify that the pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council. The primary rule for safety is simple: if a GLP-1 medication is offered without a prescription, do not proceed.”
Understanding Your Medications Before Dietary Changes
As you embark on healthier eating habits ahead of your holiday, ensure that your dietary changes do not interfere with your medications. It is vital to consult the patient information leaflet prior to making any adjustments, as certain foods can diminish the effectiveness of your medications. For instance, those taking simvastatin to manage cholesterol levels should avoid grapefruit and its juice, which can hinder the breakdown of the medication and escalate the likelihood of severe side effects.
If considering intermittent fasting, bear in mind that some medications require food for optimal efficacy and to decrease the risk of adverse effects. Metformin, commonly prescribed for diabetes, and naproxen, a pain relief medication, should be consumed with or after meals to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.
Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA, emphasised, “There are no shortcuts to safe weight loss. If you aim to slim down, it is imperative to follow medical guidance, steer clear of counterfeit medications, and remember that a combination of healthy eating and regular physical activity remains the most reliable method to achieve your summer fitness goals.”
About the MHRA
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) oversees the regulation of all medicines and medical devices within the UK, ensuring their effectiveness and safety. The agency’s operations are grounded in solid, evidence-based assessments to confirm that the benefits of products outweigh any associated risks.
The MHRA operates as an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
For media inquiries, please reach out via email at newscentre@mhra.gov.uk or contact us by telephone at 020 3080 7651.
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