Medical professionals are sounding alarm bells over a burgeoning “dangerous” black market for weight-loss drugs, as investigative reports from The i Paper reveal the widespread sale of second-hand prescription medications on Facebook’s platforms.
Among the most notable of these drugs, which are strictly available by prescription in the UK, are Ozempic and Mounjaro, both of which have been spotted being promoted for sale within weight-loss groups on the social media giant.
The surge in popularity for these medications can largely be traced back to endorsements from high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Jeremy Clarkson, who have publicly attributed their weight loss successes to these treatments, sparking heightened public interest.
Ozempic, a leading medication containing the active ingredient semaglutide, along with Mounjaro, which includes tirzepatide, is administered via injectable pre-filled pens. These medications function by imitating the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which is naturally released after food intake to help suppress appetite and control cravings in patients.
One Facebook user candidly expressed their intent to sell extra supplies of Ozempic, showcasing the alarming trend of individuals seeking to profit from their prescription medications (Photo: Facebook).
Individuals classified with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30 and 39.9 fall under the obesity category, while those with a BMI of 40 and above are identified as severely obese.
Although Ozempic has been approved primarily for managing diabetes, it is occasionally prescribed off-label to aid with weight reduction, highlighting the challenges patients face when seeking effective treatments.
On the other hand, Mounjaro has been authorized by the NHS specifically for diabetes management, mainly targeting patients with a BMI of at least 35, although it may be prescribed to those with a lower BMI if they meet specific medical criteria.
The stringent regulations surrounding these medications, coupled with their growing reputation as “wonder drugs,” have sparked a significant demand among individuals eager to shed pounds but unable to secure prescriptions through the NHS.
Evidence gathered by The i Paper indicates that numerous Facebook users are leveraging the hype surrounding these drugs to market them illegally, further complicating the situation.
Selling or advertising prescription-only medicines to the public is illegal, with clear regulations in place prohibiting their sale outside recognized supply chains. Moreover, patients are advised to return any unused medications to their pharmacies for safe disposal.
In line with Meta’s regulated goods policy, users are prohibited from posting content about weight loss that makes miraculous claims or offers to buy, sell, trade, donate, or gift weight loss products.
Sellers have been actively courting prospective buyers, particularly those expressing discouragement or seeking affordable alternatives due to supply shortages.
Concerned due to recent financial hardships, one member of a weight-loss support group shared the difficulty of affording their next pen, highlighting the urgent need for accessible health solutions.
In response, another user offered to sell their spare pen cheaply, prompting an enthusiastic agreement from the original poster.
One prospective buyer recounted purchasing Mounjaro from an online pharmacy only to encounter delays in order fulfillment, expressing frustration and seeking recommendations for alternative sources.
Numerous group members reported being overwhelmed by private messages from sellers, while others cautioned against potential scams infiltrating the platform.
In a telling post, one user claimed they had extra boxes of Ozempic they could not return to the pharmacy and were looking to sell, while another boasted about their supply of FDA-approved Mounjaro and Ozempic.
The increased interest in these medications comes on the heels of alarming statistics revealed by The i Paper, indicating that there have been 274 hospitalizations linked to the rising popularity of these weight-loss injections—a stark contrast to the 68 figures outlined by health regulators.
As the tally of adverse reactions tied to weight-loss jabs swells to a staggering 14,996, the reality of the situation has become increasingly critical.
Dr. Lizzie Toberty, GP lead at Doctors Association UK, cautioned that if the NHS fails to “quickly catch up” with the surging need and adequately fund access to these weight-loss medications, a dangerous black market will inevitably emerge.
Many patients, facing dire circumstances, are left seeking assistance outside of the established healthcare framework, which compromises their safety.
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Dr. Ellen Welch, vice chair of the Doctors Association UK and a prominent member of North Cumbria Local Medical Committee, emphasized the existence of a “postcode lottery” affecting access to weight-loss injections on the NHS, further complicating healthcare equity.
Professor Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of GPs, highlighted the potential risks associated with purchasing medications through social media channels without appropriate prescriptions. This not only endangers individual health but also contributes to ongoing supply shortages affecting legitimate patients in need.
Moreover, Facebook’s parent company Meta and the manufacturers of Ozempic and Mounjaro have both been approached for comments regarding these serious allegations.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Eli Lilly UK asserted that patient safety remains the company’s highest priority, affirming that Mounjaro should solely be used under the direction of licensed healthcare providers, with prescriptions filled through reputable pharmacies.
A representative from Novo Nordisk echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of safeguarding patient health against the dangers posed by falsified medical products, emphasizing that purchasing prescription-only medicines through illicit channels could have devastating consequences.
How can patients find legitimate sources for weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro?
**Interview with Dr. Lizzie Tober on the Black Market for Weight-Loss Drugs**
**Interviewer:** Dr. Tober, thank you for joining us today to discuss the alarming rise of a black market for prescription weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro. Can you explain what has prompted such a surge in demand for these medications?
**Dr. Lizzie Tober:** Thank you for having me. The surge in popularity can be attributed to several factors, but a significant one is the high-profile endorsements from individuals like Elon Musk and Jeremy Clarkson. When celebrities publicly share their weight loss successes linked to these medications, it generates immense interest among the general public. However, it’s important to note that these drugs are approved for specific medical conditions, primarily diabetes, and not primarily for weight loss.
**Interviewer:** In light of these endorsements, how have social media platforms, specifically Facebook, played a role in this issue?
**Dr. Tober:** Social media platforms like Facebook have become breeding grounds for the illegal sale of these drugs. Investigative reports have documented users openly selling their prescriptions in weight-loss groups, which is both illegal and dangerous. This not only circumvents necessary medical oversight but also exposes buyers to significant health risks, as they can’t be sure of the product’s safety or authenticity. Selling or advertising prescription-only medicines to the public is prohibited, yet these transactions are occurring every day.
**Interviewer:** What are the health risks associated with buying these medications from unverified sellers?
**Dr. Tober:** The health risks are substantial. Many of the drugs being sold may be counterfeit or improperly stored, leading to ineffective or even harmful outcomes. Recent statistics show a troubling correlation between the rising use of these injections and hospitalizations. For instance, reports indicate 274 hospitalizations linked to these substances, which is alarmingly higher than previous figures. The side effects and adverse reactions can be severe, and in some cases, fatal. Those buying these medications outside of legitimate channels are putting themselves at serious risk.
**Interviewer:** As you mentioned, Ozempic and Mounjaro are prescribed for diabetes and are being sought after for weight management. How are healthcare providers handling the increased demand?
**Dr. Tober:** Healthcare providers are concerned about this trend. Many eligible patients are struggling to secure prescriptions due to supply shortages and high demand. Although these drugs can be prescribed off-label for weight loss, they should be part of a comprehensive weight management plan, including lifestyle changes and medical supervision. The rise of the black market complicates this further, as providers are worried that patients may resort to unsafe measures instead of seeking proper medical advice.
**Interviewer:** What can patients do if they are seeking these medications for legitimate health reasons?
**Dr. Tober:** Patients should consult their healthcare providers to discuss their concerns and explore safe treatment options. It’s crucial for individuals to avoid seeking out medications through unverified sources, as the dangers far outweigh any temporary benefits. Additionally, healthcare professionals can provide guidance on healthy and sustainable weight loss strategies that do not rely solely on medication.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what recommendations would you give to social media platforms regarding this issue?
**Dr. Tober:** Social media companies need to enforce stricter regulations to monitor for illegal sales of prescription drugs, educate users about the dangers of purchasing medications outside of legitimate channels, and remove content that makes misleading claims about weight-loss products. It’s essential for these platforms to create a safer environment that prioritizes user health over profit.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Tober, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. It’s crucial that we address the risks involved in the black market for weight-loss drugs and promote safe, effective treatment options.
**Dr. Tober:** Thank you for highlighting this important topic. It’s vital for both public health and safety.
