TikTok Influencers Drive Demand for Unlicensed Weight-Loss Drug, Raising Health Concerns
LONDON – A surge in demand for semaglutide, a powerful weight-loss drug typically prescribed for type 2 diabetes, is being fuelled by TikTok influencers promoting its off-label use, leading to a thriving parallel market of potentially hazardous, unlicensed products, according to a Guardian investigation. The trend is prompting warnings from health officials about the risks of self-medication and the potential for serious side effects.
The growing popularity of “Ozempic,” the brand name for semaglutide, and similar drugs like Wegovy, is largely attributed to viral videos on TikTok showcasing dramatic weight-loss transformations. Influencers are sharing experiences and, in some cases, directly advertising access to the medication, often obtained through unregulated online pharmacies or compounded pharmacies offering questionable formulations. This has created a parallel market where individuals are obtaining the drug without a prescription or medical supervision, potentially exposing themselves to counterfeit or incorrectly dosed products.
The Guardian’s investigation reveals that the demand generated by social media is overwhelming legitimate supply chains, leading to shortages for patients with diabetes who rely on semaglutide for medical reasons. Pharmacists report a meaningful increase in prescriptions for the drug, driven by patients seeking it for weight loss rather than diabetes management.
“The best public interest journalism relies on first-hand accounts from people in the no,” states a Guardian call for tips on the matter. “If you have something to share on this subject, you can contact us confidentially.” The publication provides secure channels for whistleblowers, including a secure messaging tool within its app, SecureDrop, and a dedicated tips page.
Health experts warn that using semaglutide without medical supervision can lead to severe side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, and gallbladder problems. The unregulated nature of the parallel market further exacerbates these risks, as the authenticity and quality of the products cannot be guaranteed. Authorities are now investigating the extent of the illicit trade and exploring measures to curb the online promotion of prescription drugs and protect public health.
