Risks and Consequences of Using Unregulated Semaglutide
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in slimming drugs, has become popular for weight loss. While it can be life-changing for those with severe weight issues, buying it from unregulated sources can be extremely dangerous. Here’s a look at the risks and real-life stories of people who have faced serious health issues after using semaglutide purchased online or from unofficial sellers.
What Happened to Vicky Boyd?
Vicky Boyd from Newcastle was struggling with her weight and self-image. Seeking a quick fix, she purchased semaglutide from a “friend of a friend” without a prescription. After her first injection, she felt increasingly ill, experiencing severe nausea, back pain, and a high heart rate. Boyd was rushed to the hospital, where doctors found toxins in her body and kidney damage. She feels her health has been significantly harmed by the unregulated drug.
Other Cases of Illicit Semaglutide Use
BBC Investigations found several other people who suffered after buying semaglutide from unofficial sources. One woman from Sunderland felt ill and vomited uncontrollably after using a product she bought from a friend. Tests revealed the substance contained insulin and other unknown compounds, not semaglutide. Another woman from Newcastle who bought the drug from a beauty salon also experienced severe symptoms and was hospitalized.
The Black Market for Semaglutide
The BBC bought semaglutide from a beauty salon, which sold the drug illegally. The kit included a four-week supply of semaglutide in powder form, along with needles and syringes. The salon owner claimed they were unaware of the legal issues but agreed to stop selling the injections after being contacted by the BBC.
The Risks and Legal Issues
Dr. Paul Evans, a GP, noted that Wegovy (a semaglutide product) is available on the NHS but is currently not accessible in the North East of England due to supply issues. Professor Oksana Pyzik from UCL School of Pharmacy warns that buying prescription medications from unregulated sources can lead to serious health risks, including organ failure and long-term damage.
Meta (Facebook’s parent company) stated they do not allow the sale of prescription drugs on their platform and are working to improve enforcement. The Department of Health and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are actively working to identify and take action against illegal drug sales.
Buying semaglutide from unofficial sources is risky and can lead to severe health consequences. It’s crucial to only use medications that are prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider and obtained through legitimate channels. Vicky Boyd’s story serves as a warning about the dangers of seeking quick fixes from unregulated sources.
References:
- BBC Investigations on the dangers of illicit semaglutide
- Dr. Paul Evans on NHS availability of Wegovy
- Professor Oksana Pyzik’s warning on the risks of unregulated medications
- Statements from Meta and the MHRA on illegal drug sales
