Fake weight loss injections are posing serious health risks as illicit products claiming to contain prescription drugs like semaglutide are being sold online, particularly via social media platforms. A BBC investigation revealed that syringes purchased from vendors on Facebook, purported to be weight loss injections, did not contain the advertised medication but instead held substances like carnitine, a legal supplement. These injections were often delivered in unsanitary conditions, wrapped in kitchen roll without labels or instructions, raising alarms among health professionals and authorities in Northern Ireland. The Police Service of Northern Ireland is working internationally to dismantle criminal networks distributing these dangerous products.

Medical experts warn that injecting unknown substances without medical supervision can lead to severe health consequences. Semaglutide and similar drugs are prescription-only medicines designed to aid weight loss by suppressing appetite and increasing fullness, but they require careful dosing and monitoring. Fake injections may contain incorrect doses, harmful bacteria, or entirely different substances, increasing the risk of allergic reactions, infections such as sepsis, and even death. Professor Panagiotis Manesiotis from Queen’s University Belfast highlighted the dangers of unsterile needles and unknown ingredients, emphasizing that users are “dicing with death” by purchasing these products online.

The rise in counterfeit weight loss injections is partly driven by high demand and limited supply of legitimate medications like Wegovy and Ozempic. These drugs are only prescribed to individuals meeting specific health criteria, but many people seek them illegally through unregulated sources. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has seized hundreds of fake products since 2023, warning that these unlicensed medicines have not undergone safety testing and may contain impurities or bacteria. Buying from unauthorized sellers bypasses essential safety checks, leaving users unaware of side effects, proper usage, or potential complications.

Authorities and health organizations strongly advise against purchasing weight loss injections from social media or unverified online vendors. The Department of Health and MHRA urge individuals to seek treatment only through licensed healthcare providers to ensure safety and efficacy. Social media platforms like TikTok and Telegram have suspended accounts involved in selling these illegal products, but the problem persists. Public awareness campaigns continue to highlight the dangers of counterfeit injections and the importance of medical supervision in weight management treatments.