The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued an urgent public warning over the unsafe use of GLP-1 medicines, commonly known as “skinny jabs”, amid rising concerns over unregulated sales and off-label use for cosmetic weight loss.
Drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda, and Victoza are licensed in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity under strict medical supervision. However, the MHRA warns that increasing numbers of people are obtaining these medications through social media, beauty salons, and unlicensed sellers, posing serious health risks.
What Are Skinny Jabs?
GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite, helping patients feel fuller for longer. While effective for medical weight management, they are not intended for cosmetic use and must only be prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider.
Why the Urgent Warning?
The MHRA has received reports of counterfeit products and misuse of prescriptions, prompting concerns that unregulated distribution could lead to severe adverse reactions, including pancreatitis and hormonal interference.
Dr. Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA, said:
“Skinny jabs are not a quick fix for weight loss. These are powerful prescription medicines with real risks if misused or sourced illegally.”
Key Safety Advice for Users
The MHRA advises anyone using or considering GLP-1 medicines to follow these critical safety guidelines:
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Prescription Only: Only take these drugs if prescribed by a healthcare professional.
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Avoid During Pregnancy: Stop immediately and consult a doctor if you become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
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Contraceptive Warning: Mounjaro may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraception in overweight women. Use non-oral methods (e.g., IUDs, condoms) for at least 4 weeks after starting or increasing dosage.
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Recognise Side Effects: Seek urgent help for symptoms of acute pancreatitis, such as sudden stomach pain radiating to the back.
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Safe Sourcing: Always purchase from licensed UK pharmacies.
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Report Concerns: Use the MHRA Yellow Card scheme to report side effects or counterfeit drugs.
Who Is Affected?
This warning applies to anyone prescribed GLP-1 medicines, particularly:
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Women of childbearing age
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Patients managing type 2 diabetes or obesity
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Individuals undergoing surgery (as GLP-1s may interfere with anaesthesia and recovery)
Why Safe Use Matters
Unregulated use of GLP-1 drugs carries risks such as:
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Delayed diagnosis of medical complications
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Dangerous interactions with other medications
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Exposure to counterfeit or contaminated products
The MHRA reiterates: “Always follow medical advice. Don’t risk your health for weight loss shortcuts.”
How to Stay Safe
To protect yourself:
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Read the patient information leaflet carefully.
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Avoid purchasing medications from Instagram, TikTok, or non-medical platforms.
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Safely dispose of used syringes or pens after use.
Broader Context
The warning follows a 2024 British Medical Journal study showing a significant increase in the illegal trade of GLP-1 weight loss injections across the UK. The MHRA’s action is part of a wider campaign to curb the misuse of prescription-only medicines and protect vulnerable patients from dangerous black-market alternatives.
For more guidance, visit the MHRA website.
