A new national survey across the United States from the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Centre found that 25% of American people would consider taking injectable weight-loss medicines without first contacting their doctor. The findings raise concerns about the growing popularity of these medications, as well as the risks associated with self-medication from unregulated sources.

Originally designed to treat Type 2 diabetes, injectable drugs have gained popularity due to their weight-loss characteristics. However, because of their high cost and limited availability, many people are looking for cheaper options outside of the healthcare system. According to the survey, 18% of respondents identified decreased costs as a crucial issue, while 15% noted a lack of insurance coverage. Nine percent were unable to receive a prescription from their doctor, while 6% reported a shortage of availability in pharmacies. 

Injectable weight reduction medications, particularly GLP1-RA names like Ozempic and Wegovy, have shown promise in suppressing hunger and decreasing stomach emptying, resulting in considerable weight loss for certain people. In March, the FDA approved semaglutide, a GLP1-RA medication, to reduce cardiovascular risk in overweight and obese people with existing heart disease. However, worries are growing about improper use and access to these drugs. 

Dr. Shengyi Mao, an internal medicine specialist at Ohio State, emphasised the risks of using such medications without medical supervision: "It's really important for those who want to lose weight to first discuss options with their doctor." It is not one-size-fits-all, and each medicine may have risks and adverse effects." 

This year, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the dangers of compounded semaglutide, citing dosing errors and ineffective components as contributing factors. Unlicensed pharmacies use semaglutide salt, an unapproved variation, and they have discovered counterfeit versions of the medicine in the US market.

Dr. Mao noted that, while these medicines may provide short-term benefits, they must be carefully considered as part of a comprehensive weight-management strategy. "Obesity is a serious and complex chronic disease, and a comprehensive weight management program is often the best choice because losing weight and keeping it off requires a lifestyle change and lifelong commitment," the doctor said. 

The survey, conducted by SSRS on behalf of the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Centre, had 1,006 respondents between August 16 and 18, 2024, with a margin of error of +/-3.8 percent.