Fake weight loss injections are being sold online by criminals who clone the websites of legitimate UK pharmacies, according to a survey by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA). The survey found that one in 10 of the 6,000 chemists represented by the NPA have had their websites and social media presence cloned by unlicensed sellers to trick patients into buying counterfeit products.
The NPA warns that illegal online sellers are marketing cheaper appetite-suppressing drugs to people who should not have them, including young girls seeking a 'beach body' and individuals with conditions such as anorexia. Fake jabs may contain incorrect doses, lack sterile standards, or be contaminated, posing serious health risks.
Sehar Shahid, a pharmacist and NPA board member, said: 'I know first hand how distressing it is to see criminals posing as regulated pharmacists to try and trick patients into buying counterfeit medicines. Patients should be wary of any provider that is offering medicines at a price that is too good to be true and are not offering any consultations before prescribing.'
The warning follows the advertisement of unregulated 'skinny jabs' on social media. In 2024, a woman in her 50s from Sunderland died after taking unlicensed drugs. Unregulated sellers, including rogue beauty salons, may not check medical histories, risking dangerous side effects from drug interactions.
The NPA has written to Health Secretary Wes Streeting and UK regulators, urging tougher enforcement. Shahid added: 'Social media companies have been asleep at the wheel... We need tougher enforcement action and the government should put stronger safeguards in place.' A Department of Health spokesperson said patient safety is a priority and that the MHRA works to identify and prosecute those unlawfully trading in medicines.
