A new study reveals a worrying trend: nearly half of online pharmacies selling popular weight-loss medications are operating illegally, putting consumers at risk. These rogue operators, lacking proper licensing and dispensing medication without prescriptions, are capitalizing on the high demand for drugs like semaglutide (the key ingredient in Wegovy).

While the medication’s popularity has skyrocketed, with millions of prescriptions filled in the US, manufacturers struggle to keep up. This scarcity has fueled a dangerous black market of counterfeit and substandard products.

Experts are sounding the alarm, warning that these illegitimate pharmacies pose significant risks. The study uncovered instances of semaglutide contaminated with bacterial toxins and doses exceeding the labeled amount by nearly 40%, highlighting the potential for serious health consequences.

Beyond the danger of unsafe products, consumers also face financial risks. Some websites masquerading as pharmacies are nothing more than elaborate scams, designed to steal money with the promise of medications they never intend to deliver.

Even seemingly legitimate alternatives like compounding pharmacies, which create customized medications, come with their own set of concerns. While some operate legally, the FDA stresses that compounded drugs should only be a last resort when FDA-approved options are unavailable.

Navigating this landscape requires extreme caution. Experts urge consumers to only purchase medication from licensed pharmacies requiring a valid prescription. Remember, obtaining weight-loss drugs online might seem convenient, but it’s crucial to prioritize your health and safety above all else.