A team of researchers has flagged that while injectable weight loss drugs have become a popular option for people struggling with obesity, 1 in 4 or 25% consider using them without consulting their doctor, exposing themselves to several health risks.

The team from The Ohio State University, US, who surveyed 1,006 adults in America attributed the usage of drugs such as Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) without seeking medical advice to higher cost and lack of insurance.

As per the survey, at least 18 per cent participants identified cost, lack of insurance coverage (15%), difficulty obtaining a prescription (9%), and availability issues (6%) as major reasons for bypassing professional advice.

Dr Shengyi Mao, an internal medicine physician at Ohio State, underscored the risks of self-medicating. Without medical supervision, individuals may face significant health risks, such as side effects and interactions with other medications. The FDA has also issued warnings about compounded versions of Semaglutide, which can be ineffective or improperly dosed.

GLP-1 receptor agonists, like Ozempic and Wegovy, are FDA-approved for weight loss and reducing cardiovascular risk in those with obesity and existing cardiovascular conditions. However, compounded drugs may lack efficacy and present additional dangers.

Mao stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach to weight management, involving personalized medical guidance to address individual health needs and risks. Effective weight management often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and medical intervention, and discontinuing medication can lead to weight regain if not managed properly.

The U.S. FDA has approved Semaglutide for weight loss and reducing cardiovascular risk in individuals with obesity or overweight and existing cardiovascular conditions. However, the FDA has also issued warnings about compounded versions of the drug, which have been linked to dosing errors and ineffective ingredients.