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Obesity injections not suitable for losing a few kilos; experts warn of side effects and contraindications
🇬🇷 Greece /Health & Science

Obesity injections not suitable for losing a few kilos; experts warn of side effects and contraindications

From Ta Nea · () Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Weight loss injections, popularized recently, are intended for obesity treatment, not cosmetic purposes.
  • These drugs carry potential side effects and contraindications, requiring medical supervision.
  • Easy access without a prescription is concerning, as improper use can lead to health risks.

Weight loss injections that have surged in popularity over the past two years are not intended for aesthetic use but are specifically medications for obesity, according to specialist pathologist Anastasia Eftychidou. Speaking to ERTnews, she warned about the side effects of improper use of these drugs, which are often marketed on social media as "miraculous" and are sometimes available without a prescription.

These drugs are designed for obesity, and for anyone to use them to lose 2-3 kilograms for the beach is not the right way.

— Anastasia EftychidouExplaining the intended use of weight loss injections.

Eftychidou explained that these medications are designed exclusively for treating obesity. "These drugs are designed for obesity, and for anyone to use them to lose 2-3 kilograms for the beach is not the right way," she stated. She emphasized that weight loss without proper diet and exercise primarily results in muscle loss, not fat, making weight maintenance difficult afterward.

The pathologist also highlighted the alarming ease of access to these drugs. "It has indeed become relatively easy for anyone to obtain them, and the issue is that they are used without prior medical evaluation," she noted. She reminded the public that, like all medications, they have specific indications and contraindications, and individuals might have serious contraindications they are unaware of if they obtain the drugs themselves from a pharmacy.

It has indeed become relatively easy for anyone to obtain them, and the issue is that they are used without prior medical evaluation.

— Anastasia EftychidouExpressing concern over the accessibility of these medications.

Regarding side effects, Eftychidou explained they typically affect the gastrointestinal system, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. "When a person is not obese, there is no reason to endure such discomfort and risk more serious side effects," she concluded, adding that there are clearly safer and more appropriate ways to lose a few kilograms.

When a person is not obese, there is no reason to endure such discomfort and risk more serious side effects.

— Anastasia EftychidouWarning about the risks of using the injections for non-medical reasons.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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