One in 10 trying weight-loss drugs would risk buying off social media, poll finds

Doctors have sounded the alarm over fake weight-loss jabs that can cause “serious damage” as one in 10 Britons admit they would buy the drug on social media.

- REBECCA WHITTAKER

Those hoping to lose weight as a new year's resolution "shouldn't be tempted by quick fixes advertised online", Dr Claire Fuller, national medical director at NHS England stressed.

Raising her concerns about unverified sellers and individuals promoting weight-loss injections or diet aids on social media, she explained many of these sellers are offering medicines without any clinical oversight, medical checks or followup care.

"The lack of supervision can put people's health at serious risk, and there may also be concerns about the quality or authenticity of the products on offer," she added.

"Weight-loss drugs are powerful medicines and can have serious side effects, which is why they must only be prescribed by an appropriately trained healthcare professional."

It comes as a survey revealed almost one in 10 people in Britain would buy weight-loss drugs from platforms such as Facebook and TikTok if they could not get a prescription from their doctor or pharmacy.