The UK's medicines regulator has issued a stark warning against buying weight-loss injections from unregulated sources, including social media sellers, as the black market for these drugs booms. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said purchasing from illegal online sellers poses a real risk to health.
Popular jabs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro have become widely sought after, with trials showing Mounjaro can help users lose an average of 20% of their body weight after 72 weeks. However, limited NHS access, prescription requirements, and high costs have fuelled a thriving illicit market.
In October, the MHRA seized over £250,000 worth of counterfeit weight-loss jab products from a factory in Northampton, including unlicensed experimental drugs. A subsequent investigation found the company linked to the products continued to advertise replicas on Telegram channels. Banks have also reported scams, with victims losing £120 on average.
Jenn Matthissen of the MHRA said: “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 urged consumers to use only authorised products from legitimate sources and consult healthcare professionals.
The MHRA warned that products from illicit sellers may be counterfeit, contaminated, contain wrong doses, or include unlisted dangerous ingredients. Improper storage, such as exposure to extreme cold, could also impair safety and effectiveness. Health minister Dr Zubir Ahmed said: “Don’t line the pockets of criminals who don’t care about your health.”
