How to identify fake weight loss pens & access treatment safely
We can all be tempted to look for a quick fix to our problems. For example, patching up a leaky roof yourself works for a short time until a professional comes out to fix it.
However, when it comes to weight loss treatments, a quick fix isn’t the same. Not only can buying cheap weight loss medication from an unlicensed source be ineffective, but it’s also incredibly unsafe.
The odds are that the weight loss pens advertised on social media or in local salons are fake, meaning the active ingredient inside the pen isn’t regulated for use. Starting on a dose too high or injecting too often can also cause unwanted and potentially serious side effects.
Many people want to lose weight, but it’s essential first to consider the dangers of injecting an unknown substance into your body. Losing weight quickly and cheaply isn’t worth sacrificing your health.
There’s a reason weight loss injections like Saxenda, Wegovy and Mounjaro are prescription-only medications. They are only prescribed by highly qualified medical professionals and have strict criteria patients must meet to qualify for weight loss treatment.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to identify fake weight loss pens, why these scams might tempt some people, and how to access your treatment safely.
How to identify fake weight loss pens
Identifying fake weight loss injections is easier than you think! It’s all about knowing what and where to look. Remembering these three things is key:
- Source (where are you buying them from?)
- Cost (does the cost seem too good to be true?)
- Appearance (does the packaging appear flimsy or unprofessional?)
Source
You should only look for weight loss pens from trusted, qualified sources (like ourselves!)
Saxenda, Wegovy and Mounjaro are prescription-only medicines, and they can only be issued by specialised medical professionals–like our prescribing pharmacists–after a consultation.
You’ll be asked about your medical history and weight and asked to provide photographs to confirm that the information given is accurate. This is all to ensure the medication is safe and the right choice for you.
Steer clear of any weight loss injections advertised on social media, in salons, and even online by some unlicensed pharmacies. For peace of mind, it’s a sensible idea to check that the pharmacy is regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) before you commit.
These medications should never be easy to obtain, so always research the company and the person offering the treatment beforehand.
Cost
Weight loss pens aren’t cheap, which is probably why many seek cheaper alternatives. However, these fakes only offer ineffectiveness and potentially life-threatening consequences.
If weight loss injections aren’t suitable for your budget, plenty of other options have proven effective in helping patients lose weight. These include treatments such as Orlistat and Mysimba, which are taken orally.
It’s better–and safer!–to choose an alternative treatment rather than settling on a fake weight loss pen. To give you an idea of the cost, here’s a range of prices for each of the most popular GLP-1 injections:
- Saxenda: ranges between £75 - £375 (depending on the amount of pens)
- Wegovy: ranges between £99 - £249 (depending on the strength of the pen)
- Mounjaro: ranges between £129 - £189 (depending on the strength of the pen)
These are the prices listed on our website and it's important to note that these will be correct at the time of writing and are subject to change. Of course, the cost can fluctuate depending on the company, but they should still be around that price range. If the weight loss injections you’re looking at are drastically cheaper than those listed above, there’s a high chance that they’re fake.
Appearance
When comparing fake weight loss pens to real ones, there are several differences in their appearance to look out for. Real weight loss pens come in well-designed packaging with clear, high-quality printing and correct branding.
Everything looks sharp and professional, from the logo to the product information. The materials used for the pen and its packaging feel solid and well-made.
Real pens often have a unique serial number or batch code that you can check with the manufacturer to ensure they're genuine. The liquid inside the pen should also be clear and colourless.
Conversely, fake weight loss pens usually have noticeable issues. The packaging might have spelling mistakes, blurry printing, or incorrect logos.
The materials might feel cheap and flimsy, and the pen can have flaws like uneven colouring, rough edges or loose parts. Fake products often lack a serial number or have one that doesn't match the manufacturer’s records.
The substance inside fake weight loss pens is unknown so it may be cloudy or tinged with colour. Additionally, fake weight loss pens typically only print the active ingredient on the box, not the brand name. This could be semaglutide, liraglutide or tirzepatide.
On authentic boxes, the brand name should be the first thing you see, with the active ingredient and dosage strength printed in a smaller font beneath it.
Why might people choose fake weight loss pens?
Cost
Fake weight loss pens are often much cheaper than genuine ones. People looking to save money might be tempted by the lower price, thinking they’re getting a good deal.
Convenience
Fake weight loss pens can be easier to obtain. They might be available online without a prescription, making them more accessible to people who prefer a quick and hassle-free purchase.
Not meeting criteria
Some individuals may not qualify for legitimate weight loss pens through traditional healthcare channels due to the strict criteria for GLP-1s (patients need a BMI of 30 and above, or slightly lower if they have obesity-related complications, like type 2 diabetes).
They might turn to fake pens as an alternative way to get access to treatment.
Scams
Unfortunately, many people fall victim to scams and buy fake weight loss pens without realising they’re not genuine. Scammers can create convincing replicas and websites, tricking people into believing they’re buying the actual product.
The dangers of using fake weight loss pens
Using fake weight loss pens can be very dangerous. They might contain harmful or unknown substances that can cause serious health problems like allergic reactions or poisoning.
Since these fake pens are not tested for safety, they often don't work, meaning you might not lose weight and waste money. Relying on counterfeit pens can also delay proper medical treatment, worsening health issues.
In severe cases, using fake weight loss pens can lead to long-term health problems or even life-threatening situations.
In conclusion, while seeking quick fixes for weight loss can be tempting, opting for cheap, unlicensed weight loss pens is risky and potentially harmful. Always consult a healthcare professional and get your prescription from a trusted and accredited source.
Be aware of red flags like too-good-to-be-true prices, unprofessional packaging, and sources that don’t require a prescription. Remember, losing weight safely and effectively takes time, and legitimate treatments like Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro should only be used under medical supervision.
Your health is worth more than the convenience of quick and cheap solutions. With the proper support and guidance, you can stay informed, stay safe, and take confident steps towards your weight loss goals.
