23-05-2025
Woman left in intensive care after weight-loss jab
A woman was left in intensive care after using a weight-loss jab allegedly sourced from a beauty salon.
NHS chiefs have warned against using weight loss medicines bought from private clinics or online, saying they can pose a 'direct danger to health'.
North Yorkshire Police said two women from Selby, aged 32 and 37, have been arrested on suspicion of administering the medicine and have been released on bail.
A third woman, 58, also from Selby, was arrested on suspicion of selling or supplying a prescription-only medicine and has been released while under investigation.
The woman, also from Selby, who used the injection was treated for suspected internal injuries in intensive care earlier this month and has since been discharged.
She is one of three people who became unwell following the use of a weight loss jab.
Weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, require a prescription from a doctor in order to buy legitimately and are generally only made available to those who are obese or overweight with other weight-related health conditions.
Laura Angus, the chief pharmacy officer of the NHS Humber and North Yorkshire integrated care board (ICB), said: 'There has been a lot of attention in the media and on social media about these so-called 'skinny jabs', but as with any medicines bought outside of legitimate supply chains, the contents may not match the ingredients on the label.
'If you use such products you could be putting your health at serious risk.
'If you are thinking of buying a weight-loss medicine, please talk to a healthcare professional first.
'The only way to guarantee you receive a genuine weight-loss medicine is to obtain it from a legitimate pharmacy – including those trading online – using a prescription issued by a healthcare professional.'
Andy Morling, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency's deputy director of Criminal Enforcement, said: 'Weight loss medicines are powerful medications and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
'Public safety is our top priority, and our Criminal Enforcement Unit works tirelessly with partners to prevent, detect and investigate illegal activity involving medicines and medical devices.
'Buying so-called weight loss medicines from illegal suppliers significantly increases the risk of receiving products that are either falsified or not licensed for use in the UK.
'Products purchased in this way will not meet the MHRA's strict quality and safety standards, and taking such medicines may put one's health at risk.'
Police launched an investigation after being notified by health professionals on May 7.
Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
