Medical Supervision Vital as Misuse of Weight Loss Injections Leads to Growing Reports of Side Effects
With weight loss injections taking the healthcare world by storm, Well by Vertis is warning the public of the importance of clinical oversight and proper prescribing practices when taking any of these drugs.
The rise in popularity of medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) has led to increasing numbers of people accessing the jabs through informal routes, sometimes without meeting medical eligibility criteria or receiving professional guidance.
While these medications can be highly effective tools for people living with obesity and related health conditions, they are not risk-free. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach pain. More serious complications, although rare, include pancreatitis, kidney issues, thyroid concerns, and blurred vision.
One concerning story involves a woman self-administering a high dose of semaglutide, despite being a healthy weight and having no clinical need. After taking a quantity four times higher than recommended for new patients, she experienced days of violent vomiting, migraines, and prolonged digestive distress.
Although her acute symptoms eventually eased, she has since reported disordered eating patterns, including constant hunger – a rare side effect, proving the real risks of using weight loss medication without supervision.
Stephanie Smith, Lead Nurse at Well by Vertis, says that the importance of clinical oversight in safeguarding patient wellbeing can’t be overstated.
“These medications are powerful and must be treated with caution. They’re not designed to be a quick fix or used by those without a clinical need,” she said.
“When patients are assessed properly, started on the correct dosage, and supported throughout their journey, outcomes can be safe and transformative. But taking them without medical supervision risks serious harm. It’s not just about temporary side effects – it’s about long-term health, and that requires proper care.”
All patients under the care of Well by Vertis receive a comprehensive clinical assessment, including a review of medical history, medication compatibility, and weight-related health risks, before treatment begins. The service also provides ongoing monitoring and support, adjusting dosages carefully and managing side effects when they arise.
As social media continues to promote short-term weight loss “hacks” and unverified advice, Well by Vertis is urging anyone considering GLP-1 medication to speak to a qualified medical professional. Weight loss injections can be safe and effective, but only when used as intended: with care and clinical oversight, so that patients lose only weight – never their health.
For more information, visit https://www.wearewell.org.uk.
About
Well by Vertis is a private wellness service owned and managed by a team of passionate GPs and clinical professionals in Worcestershire, UK. Formed within General Practice, the organisation is dedicated to improving patient health and reinvesting in the local community. By combining clinical expertise with a community-first ethos, Well by Vertis provides patients across the UK with access to safe, effective healthcare solutions.
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