Concerns are rising over the proliferation of fake and improperly used weight-loss drugs infiltrating the market in Fiji. Health experts caution that the products being circulated online and through informal channels not only lack efficacy but could also pose significant health threats.
Priyanka Prasad, President of the Fiji Pharmaceutical Society, has highlighted a worrying trend where individuals are misusing prescription medications designed for conditions such as diabetes as weight-loss solutions, often without any medical supervision. These counterfeit drugs can be incredibly difficult to distinguish from legitimate products and may contain harmful or unknown ingredients, presenting serious health risks to consumers.
Prasad emphasizes the need for vigilance, urging consumers to only procure medications from trusted and verified pharmacies. “Consumers should be warned that manufacturers of these counterfeit goods are producing products that are so similar that the untrained eye won’t be able to pick out the differences,” she explained. This underlines the importance of sourcing medications from reliable suppliers.
She also pointed to the rising popularity of such weight-loss products on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. While interest in weight loss is natural, Prasad reminds users that these medicines are intended for specific clinical purposes and should not be used recklessly. It is vital to consult healthcare professionals for proper medical advice.
Echoing these sentiments, Dr. Alipate Vakamocea, President of the Fiji Medical Association, insists that there are no simple solutions to serious health issues such as obesity, diabetes, or hypertension. “This is something that we would really encourage you to get a medical opinion from a medical practitioner,” he stated. “If you want to try something on the market, get a proper opinion from a licensed, registered medical practitioner before you go ahead and use it.”
Medical professionals emphasize that achieving safe and sustainable weight loss is best accomplished through a balanced approach involving nutrition, regular exercise, and appropriate medical guidance, rather than resorting to risky shortcuts that could endanger lives. The call for awareness and responsible health choices remains crucial as the public navigates the complexities of weight management.
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