We know so little about taking weight-loss drugs without prescription is it really worth it? | Devi Sridhar
Briefly

The article examines the surge in popularity of GLP-1 anti-obesity drugs amidst a growing trend of weight loss discussions in gyms. Despite their increasing usage, particularly in the US with 12% of adults reportedly using them, there's a concerning lack of published evaluations on their overall health effectiveness and risks. The high cost of these medications hinders accessibility in low- and middle-income countries, prompting a hidden online market rife with counterfeit products, posing significant health risks to consumers. Recent studies, including one from Nature Medicine, highlight the urgent need for comprehensive evaluations as usage continues to rise.
There has been no published evaluation of GLP-1 drugs' effectiveness on health outcomes and risks in the overall population, despite skyrocketing usage.
A recent poll showed 12% of US adults reported using GLP-1 medications, reflecting a significant trend alongside rising awareness around anti-obesity drugs.
The online hidden market for weight-loss drugs presents major risks to health, as users often encounter counterfeit products with quality and safety concerns.
High costs limit accessibility in lower-income countries, with GLP-1 drugs priced significantly lower outside of the US, making them a coveted luxury.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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