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Weight-loss injections and peptides being advertised and sold through closed WhatsApp groups, Facebook pages and other informal channels in the British Virgin Islands have prompted a warning from health authorities over potentially serious medical complications.
The warning also extends to injections imported through courier services for personal use or resale, amid concerns about unregulated products entering the Territory.
According to a Government press release issued today, Wednesday, November 11, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges warned residents against purchasing or using these products without proper medical supervision.
“Weight-loss injections must be obtained through legitimate medical and pharmacy channels. Products bought on social media or sent through a courier can cause serious harm,” Dr. Georges stated.
He explained that while certain weight-management medications may be suitable for some individuals, they should only be used following an assessment by a registered medical practitioner.
Products obtained through unverified suppliers may contain unknown ingredients, incorrect dosages or harmful contaminants. Improper storage and unsafe injection practices also increase the risks.
Possible complications include severe nausea, vomiting, dehydration, allergic reactions, pancreatitis, liver or kidney injury and infections, some of which may require hospitalisation.
Health authorities also warned that the unlawful sale, distribution or administration of unregulated injectable products is prohibited, and those involved could face investigation and enforcement action.
Residents who have already obtained such injections are being advised not to take further doses until consulting a registered doctor or pharmacist.
Anyone experiencing severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fainting, breathing difficulties, facial swelling, fever or signs of infection following an injection should seek immediate medical attention.
The public is also encouraged to report suspected illegal advertising or sales to the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, Gracia Wheatley-Smith, at 468-9850 or grwheatley-smith@gov.vg.
Reports should include screenshots of advertisements, photographs of products, seller information and purchase or delivery details where available.
The warning also extends to injections imported through courier services for personal use or resale, amid concerns about unregulated products entering the Territory.
According to a Government press release issued today, Wednesday, November 11, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges warned residents against purchasing or using these products without proper medical supervision.
“Weight-loss injections must be obtained through legitimate medical and pharmacy channels. Products bought on social media or sent through a courier can cause serious harm,” Dr. Georges stated.
He explained that while certain weight-management medications may be suitable for some individuals, they should only be used following an assessment by a registered medical practitioner.
Products obtained through unverified suppliers may contain unknown ingredients, incorrect dosages or harmful contaminants. Improper storage and unsafe injection practices also increase the risks.
Possible complications include severe nausea, vomiting, dehydration, allergic reactions, pancreatitis, liver or kidney injury and infections, some of which may require hospitalisation.
Health authorities also warned that the unlawful sale, distribution or administration of unregulated injectable products is prohibited, and those involved could face investigation and enforcement action.
Residents who have already obtained such injections are being advised not to take further doses until consulting a registered doctor or pharmacist.
Anyone experiencing severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fainting, breathing difficulties, facial swelling, fever or signs of infection following an injection should seek immediate medical attention.
The public is also encouraged to report suspected illegal advertising or sales to the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, Gracia Wheatley-Smith, at 468-9850 or grwheatley-smith@gov.vg.
Reports should include screenshots of advertisements, photographs of products, seller information and purchase or delivery details where available.
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