A warning from doctors about the dangers of seeking extreme weight loss measures has emerged as the festive season approaches. With social media hype fueling demand for GLP-1 injections, it's time to address the misconceptions and potential risks involved.
Dr. Siti Khadijah Awang Amat, director of Dear Clinic, shares her concerns about individuals turning to cheaper, illegitimate sources for GLP-1 alternatives, putting their health at risk. Picture by Choo Choy May.
As we approach Chinese New Year and Ramadan, the conversation around quick weight loss solutions intensifies, especially in aesthetic clinics. Social media plays a significant role in shaping these discussions, with online hype promoting Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) "slimming shots" as a lifestyle fix for obesity and diabetes.
However, doctors emphasize the need to correct this dangerous misconception. GLP-1 medications are intended for specific medical conditions and require careful medical supervision. They are not a quick-fix cosmetic solution, as many may believe.
"Most people feel the pressure to look their best during festive seasons, leading them to seek out Ozempic or similar GLP-1 medications. The easy availability of information and relatively simple access, whether through clinics or other sources, contribute to this misconception," says Dr. Siti Khadijah, popularly known as Dr. Katalina.
She highlights that many healthy young individuals seek weight loss treatment based on hearsay, assuming it's a functional treatment because celebrities use it. To address this, Dr. Siti Khadijah conducts a thorough assessment for all walk-in patients, starting with a simple yet crucial question: what is the reason for seeking the medication?
"We must ask this question because some patients come in with the sole purpose of slimming down, believing Ozempic is the answer. But it's essential to understand the underlying reasons and determine eligibility through various assessments, including reviewing existing prescriptions and conducting blood tests," she explains.
Injectable GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide have gained popularity for weight loss, but this has also led to concerns about consumers turning to cheaper, illegally marketed versions for quick results. Picture by Sayuti Zainudin.
Dr. Ng Valynne, clinical director of Clinic RX, echoes the importance of careful evaluation. Each patient's family history and existing comorbidities must be considered to ensure suitability for GLP-1 medications and manage potential side effects.
"Many people misunderstand GLP-1s as a shortcut for weight loss. We ask a comprehensive list of questions to assess their suitability and ability to handle potential side effects," Ng adds.
The easy access to GLP-1 medications through aggressive social media promotions has raised concerns about patient safety and public trust. In Malaysia, authentic GLP-1 medications are sourced exclusively from licensed manufacturers and registered distributors regulated by the Health Ministry's National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA).
As prescription-only medicines, each GLP-1 package carries an official MAL registration number that can be verified on the NPRA's website. These medications are supplied through a traceable, regulated pharmaceutical chain with proper cold-chain storage.
"If someone cannot provide information about the expiry and manufacturing date, batch number, license holder, or manufacturer, it's a red flag. Legitimate clinics ensure proper storage and refrigeration to maintain the stability and effectiveness of these drugs," Ng explains.
Ng also notes that illegally marketed versions may not follow proper storage procedures, increasing the risk of adverse effects. Improper dosing, whether administered by unlicensed practitioners, self-administered, or taken on inconsistent schedules, can lead to negative outcomes due to individual tolerance variations, as Dr. Siti Khadijah points out.
Dr. Ungku Mohd Shahrin, from the Persatuan Doktor Estetik Berdaftar Malaysia (PDEBM), highlights how social media often oversimplifies complex medical treatments, emphasizing rapid results while downplaying side effects and long-term commitment.
"Influencers lack medical accountability, and when doctors themselves use promotional or sensationalized messaging, it blurs the line between patient education and advertising. Misrepresentation of these medications can lead to inappropriate use and unnecessary health risks," he warns.
He expresses concern over the rising portrayal of GLP-1 medications as "quick-fix slimming injections," emphasizing that they are not cosmetic procedures or instant weight-loss solutions.
Like all prescription drugs, GLP-1s carry common side effects and health risks, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and appetite suppression. More serious but less common risks include gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal intolerance, nutritional deficiency, and loss of lean muscle mass if not properly monitored, according to Dr. Ungku Mohd Shahrin.
Ng emphasizes that weight loss should not be a seasonal pursuit and that GLP-1 medications are often misunderstood, especially among younger people, as a quick fix to shed a few kilograms, even for those already underweight.
"Weight management should focus on long-term health, reducing inflammation, and cardiovascular risk through proper diet, lifestyle changes, and exercise. GLP-1 medication is just a small part of the equation. Minor concerns like small amounts of body fat can be addressed through simple lifestyle adjustments," she adds.
Dr. Ungku Mohd Shahrin stresses that only fully registered medical doctors under the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) are authorized to prescribe GLP-1 drugs following proper medical assessment, counseling, and informed consent. He warns against financial incentives taking precedence over patient safety and medical ethics.
"Promoting GLP-1 therapy as a cosmetic or quick-fix solution without adequate medical oversight risks exposing patients to harm and eroding public trust in healthcare. The aesthetic industry bears a professional and ethical responsibility for how these drugs are normalized and delivered," he concludes.
Ng advises those interested in GLP-1 therapies to consult a qualified doctor and avoid self-prescribing medication. "Wanting to lose weight is secondary. The main goal is to stay healthy and alive."
So, as we navigate the festive season, let's prioritize our health and make informed decisions. Are there any specific aspects of this topic you'd like to discuss further? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
