Slimming jabs: 'I thought my body was shutting down'

The use of slimming jabs, particularly semaglutide, has surged in popularity, especially among those struggling with significant weight issues. This drug, which is the active ingredient in medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, has been touted by various celebrities, leading to an increased demand. However, this rise in popularity has also given birth to a dangerous black market filled with counterfeit and potentially life-threatening products. Vicky Boyd, a resident of Newcastle, found herself caught in this troubling trend. She had been battling severe insecurities about her weight and was eager to find a solution before her upcoming holiday. After weighing in at 13 stone, Vicky felt desperate for a quick fix. She decided to purchase semaglutide from a friend of a friend, without a prescription, believing it would help her achieve her weight loss goals. Unfortunately, her experience turned into a nightmare. After her first injection, Vicky felt fine initially, but soon after, she began to feel extremely sleepy. In the early hours of the morning, she woke up feeling nauseous and was unable to stop vomiting. She experienced severe pain in her side and back, and it felt as though her body was shutting down. Despite hoping it was just a passing illness, she knew deep down that something was seriously wrong. When she arrived at the hospital, doctors informed her that her body was filled with toxins and her heart rate was alarmingly high. They quickly admitted her and started treatment, revealing that she had damaged her kidneys. Vicky's story is not unique. Another woman from Sunderland, who also chose to buy semaglutide from an unverified source, experienced similar symptoms. Just three hours after her injection, she became violently ill and was unable to keep even water down for an extended period. She was rushed to the emergency room, where the medical staff expressed their disapproval of her self-injection. The BBC conducted tests on the substance she purchased and found that it contained no semaglutide, only a small amount of insulin and other unknown compounds. This highlights the dangers of purchasing drugs from unreliable sources. A third case involved a woman from Newcastle who bought semaglutide from a beauty salon. After her first dose, she experienced severe symptoms, including numbness and extreme vomiting, which required an ambulance to take her to the hospital. The BBC also acquired a slimming kit from the same salon, which was sold illegally. The kit included needles and a powder that was claimed to be semaglutide. The seller provided no proper guidance on how to use the drug safely, which is a significant concern. Many people are seeking quick weight loss solutions without fully understanding the potential risks involved. Dr. Paul Evans, a GP in Gateshead, noted that there is a noticeable increase in patient inquiries about slimming drugs whenever they are featured in the media. He explained that while Wegovy is available on prescription through the NHS, it is currently not accessible in the North East due to supply issues. This leaves many patients disappointed when they learn that they cannot obtain the medication they desire. Experts like Professor Oksana Pyzik emphasize the serious risks associated with purchasing slimming drugs from social media or illegal sellers. She warns that individuals can suffer severe health consequences, including seizures and organ failure, if they do not receive appropriate medical attention. It is crucial for individuals to recognize that losing weight should be approached safely and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Buying drugs from untrustworthy sources is akin to gambling with one's health. If you or someone you know is considering using these drugs, it is essential to consult a doctor first. They can provide safe alternatives for weight loss and help you understand the associated risks. Vicky's husband, Peter, took to Facebook to share their experience in hopes of warning others about the dangers of purchasing slimming drugs illegally. He urged people to think carefully before making such decisions. Vicky was fortunate to recover, but not everyone will be as lucky. Prioritizing health and safety over quick fixes is vital in the pursuit of weight loss.