The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued a fresh warning against buying weight-loss jabs from unregulated sources, including social media sellers, as the black market for these medications booms. Popular jabs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, which can help users lose significant weight, require a prescription and are expensive, driving demand for illegal alternatives.
Jenn Matthissen of the MHRA's safety and surveillance team stressed the importance of purchasing only from registered UK pharmacies or legitimate retailers. 'People often look for ways to support their health at this time of year but buying medicines from illegal online sellers can put your health at real risk,' she said.
The black market is substantial: in October, the MHRA seized over £250,000 worth of counterfeit weight-loss jab products from a factory in Northampton, including injection pens for retatrutide, an experimental drug not licensed in the UK. A subsequent investigation found the company linked to the products continued to advertise replicas on Telegram channels.
Banks have also warned of scams, with victims losing £120 on average. The MHRA has previously flagged beauty salons, fake pharmacy websites, and social media posts selling prescription medications without a prescription. Key warning signs include unusually low prices, 'miracle results' or 'quick fixes'.
Products from illicit sellers may be counterfeit, contaminated, contain wrong doses, or include unlisted dangerous ingredients. Improper storage, such as exposure to extreme cold, can also impair safety and effectiveness. Health minister Dr Zubir Ahmed urged: 'Please do not buy weight loss medications from unregulated sources. These products are made with no regard for safety or quality.'
