The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) had warned the people against resorting to quick-fix remedies for summer slimming and endanger their health.
The regulator has warned that over-dosing on prescription weight-loss meds and buying dangerous fakes online could lead to illnesses, and advocated steps to lose weight safely.
As demand for weight-loss medicines continues to rise, the MHRA is reminding people how to use GLP-1 medicines safely, spot illegal sellers and avoid diet changes that could interfere with their medicines.
Follow doctor’s orders
If you’ve been prescribed a GLP-1 weight-loss medicine, don’t be tempted to fast-track your weight loss by upping your dose. Semaglutide (Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and liraglutide (Saxenda) should only be taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Follow doctors’ orders and take your prescribed GLP-1 alongside a healthy diet and a fitness regime.
Whether you’re taking it for diabetes management or weight loss, maintaining good nutrition and exercise can help support muscle, bone, and overall health as your calorie intake changes.
Stay away from fakes
If you’re not eligible for a prescription for weight-loss medicines, don’t be tempted to buy them from unregulated websites or social media sellers.
GLP-1 medicines authorised in the UK have only been shown to be safe and effective for people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 or more. Buying from rogue sellers is a huge risk, as they may contain harmful substances.
Don’t be tempted by the online hype around retatrutide. It has not been authorised for use in the UK, meaning anyone selling this product is doing so illegally.
These products haven’t been tested for safety, quality or effectiveness and there’s no guarantee that they even contain retatrutide.
MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit head Andy Morling, said: “Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true and check the pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council.”
Dietary changes
Trying to eat more healthily before your holiday? Great - but make sure your diet doesn’t clash with your medication.
Read the patient information leaflet before making dietary changes, as some foods could compromise medicines’ effectiveness.
Thinking about intermittent fasting? Remember that some medicines need to be taken with food to work most effectively and lower your risk of side effects.
Metformin, used to treat diabetes, and the painkiller naproxen should both be taken with or after food to help prevent stomach upset.
MHRA’s Chief Safety Officer, Alison Cave said: “There’s no shortcut to safe weight loss. If you’re trying to slim down, follow medical advice, avoid fake medicines and remember that healthy eating and regular exercise are still the safest ways to get in shape for summer.”
