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The Risks of Buying Weight Loss Drugs Online Without a Prescription
A recent investigation highlights the significant dangers associated with purchasing unregulated weight loss medications from unauthorized online pharmacies that don’t mandate prescriptions. This research was reported in a reputable article on JAMA Network Open.
Counterfeit Semaglutide Products: A Serious Concern
The study centered on counterfeit versions of widely known semaglutide treatments such as Ozempic and Wegovy, which are only available through a doctor’s prescription. Researchers examined three illicit variations claiming to be equivalent products and discovered alarming issues, including low purity levels of semaglutide, dosages that far exceeded what was advertised, and even potential bacterial contamination in one sample.
Research Methodology and Findings
The substandard products were procured from three separate illegal online vendors selling these drugs marketed for purposes like weight management, appetite control, diabetes treatment, and cardiovascular improvement. Initially, researchers—comprised of experts from both the University of California, San Diego and Hungary’s University of Pécs—attempted to purchase counterfeit drugs from six different sources before narrowing down their investigation.
This study underlines the inherent risks associated with seeking out unverified pharmaceutical products over the internet. Experts continue to advocate for consumer awareness when considering any health-related purchases online.
