The Dangers of Misusing Ozempic for Weight Loss: A Warning from NHS England

The misuse of drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss has become a concerning trend, prompting warnings from medical professionals. Stephen Powis, the national medical director of NHS England, emphasized at a conference in Manchester that these medications should only be used by individuals who have been prescribed them for obesity or diabetes. He expressed concern over reports of people misusing these drugs as a quick fix to achieve a “beach body.”

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, mimics the hormone GLP-1 that the body naturally produces after eating. This hormone helps users feel fuller for longer, aiding in weight management. However, a survey conducted in July 2023 found that 4% of US adults admitted to using prescription drugs for weight loss, with 10% of them having stopped taking such medications.

The ease of purchasing Ozempic and similar drugs online without an in-person examination has raised alarm bells among medical experts. A doctor revealed that “young, beautiful girls” are frequently ending up in UK emergency rooms after lying about their weight to obtain Ozempic online. These individuals are unaware of the risks they are taking and are facing life-threatening complications such as pancreas inflammation and disruptions in blood salt levels.

Dr. Vicky Price, a consultant in acute medicine and president-elect of the Society for Acute Medicine, stressed the urgent need for regulation and control of online access to weight-loss drugs. She highlighted the importance of preventing more patients from falling ill due to the misuse of these medications.

One particularly alarming case involved a girl who was not overweight but managed to purchase Wegovy online. She arrived at the emergency room feeling unwell, experiencing symptoms such as dizziness and inability to stand up. After examination, she was diagnosed with starvation ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition where the body breaks down muscle as a source of fuel when fat stores are depleted.

This narrative sheds light on the misuse of Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss purposes and the resulting dangers. The insights provided by medical experts highlight the need for stricter regulations to prevent individuals from obtaining these drugs without proper prescription and supervision. By raising awareness about the risks associated with misusing weight-loss medications, this article serves as a cautionary tale for those considering these drugs as a quick fix solution.