The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has warned people against buying weight-loss injections from dubious sources such as unregulated sellers, social media, and beauty salons.
The NPA has issued the warning after its poll, conducted by YouGov, indicated that 6 per cent of adults are likely to use weight loss injections in the new year.
Their analysis suggests this is equivalent to 3.3 million people, more than double the estimated 1.5 million people using the jabs in 2025.
The polling data suggests that 9 percent of 25-49-year-olds are likely to take the jab next year.
The NPA pointed out that unregulated suppliers are resorting to sophisticated methods to sell fake or sub-standard medicines, which seriously impact the health of patients.
Moreover, these sellers do not provide any wrap-around support for patients, which includes regular checks and wider lifestyle support.
Patients can ascertain the genuineness of an online pharmacy by checking if it is regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), it added.
NPA chair Olivier Picard said, “We expect a surge in the number of patients looking to start weight management treatments in the new year, as our analysis shows.
“However, there is a risk of criminals trying to take advantage of this, with unscrupulous fake sellers seeking to cash in.
“Not only are unregulated sellers breaking the law, but they can also cause serious damage to your health.
“With these scams becoming more sophisticated, it is really important that patients wanting to explore starting weight management treatment only go to regulated pharmacies, either online or in person on your high street."
“Community pharmacies can provide a patient with the care they need to achieve a sustainable weight loss, through wrap around support and careful lifestyle changes, where a patient is eligible for treatment.”
The MHRA has also issued a New Year's warning against the use of unsafe online weight loss medications.
The regulator advises people to avoid purchasing these drugs from unregulated websites and social media platforms, where they are showcased as affordable with quick, unbelievable results.
