As weight-loss pills are now hitting the UK market, experts have warned of the dangers of counterfeit pills and how to spot them.
The semaglutide tablet, marketed under the brand name Wegovy, is designed to be taken daily to help adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above lose weight.
Approved for use in the UK by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in June, it is now available in the UK on a private prescription.
The rollout comes after a surge in the popularity of weight-loss injections like Ozempic, which are now used by an estimated 1.6 million people in the UK, according to research carried out by University College London.
With pills being more accessible than injections, pharmacists have suggested the number of people turning to weight-loss drugs is expected to increase.
However, experts have expressed concerns about the potential “gap” created for others to produce or sell fake pills.
MP Layla Moran, the chair of the health and social care committee, said the approval was “reason to be concerned that a black market for higher-strength, dangerous pills could emerge”.
More than one in five people on weight-loss medication have previously suspected their medication might be fake but still took it, according to data from ZAVA online doctor, which is a licensed distributor.
The implications of taking fake medication can result in two extremes, warned Sehar Shahid, a board director of the National Pharmacy Association: “Pills are much easier to counterfeit compared to the injections that were available before.”
Although some counterfeit products may have no effect at all and not help with weight loss, others may contain harmful or “life-threatening” substances.
Here, experts have shared five key tips to help spot fake or unregulated weight-loss pills.
1. Compare the cost
Ms Shahid emphasised the importance of comparing the prices of weight-loss pills, explaining it is common for counterfeits to be cheaper than legitimate medication.
“The average price-point we’re looking at for Wegovy pills is £99,” she told The Independent.
“If you’re being offered something far less than what the market rate is, it probably is too good to be true – a significantly lower price is your first warning sign.”
2. Check where it is being sold
Experts warned potential users to check the pharmacy you are buying from is a registered provider, and to avoid online marketplaces like Amazon or Facebook.
Ms Shahid said: “A real medication would never be sold somewhere that isn’t a pharmacy. If you’re seeing it being offered on social media, or at a beauty salon, it’s most likely a counterfeit.”
A spokesperson for the MHRA said: “The golden rule is simple. Only buy these medicines through legitimate channels. If you’ve obtained it in any other way – don’t take it.”
3. Look at the packaging
Experts advise people to carefully check the packaging. If anything doesn’t look right, proceed with caution.
“This medication is only sold in a box with silver blister packs,” Ms Shahid explained.
“If they look discoloured, have any printing mistakes, are in poor-quality packaging or look like they have been tampered with – that’s a huge red flag. Similarly, if they’re arriving in a bottle or vial, it’s not a legitimate medication.”
She also advised checking the box has a batch number, which can then be verified on the MHRA website.
4. Check you were offered a consultation
Matt Fagg, director of prevention at NHS England, highlighted the importance of having a consultation before starting any weight-management medication.
He said: “These drugs should only ever be prescribed by appropriately trained healthcare professionals with proper medical checks, clinical oversight and follow-ups.”
These consultations will help the prescriber decide if the treatment is right for you, explain the potential side effects and work out the best dosage.
Ms Shahid warned: “If you are able to access this medication without speaking to somebody, it is highly likely it is a counterfeit.”
5. Consider the payment method
Ms Shahid said secure payment gateways are the only way you should be asked to pay for weight-loss pills.
“If you’re being asked to pay through something like PayPal, or another platform, that’s a clear indicator you’re dealing with a criminal, rather than a place authorised to sell these pills,” she added.
Experts advised anyone who believes they may have ingested fake medication to seek medical attention immediately.
Counterfeit medication can also be reported to the MHRA or unusual side effects through theYellow Card Scheme, which can investigate the seller and the medication, and help protect others.