Experts have warned about the dangers of self-medication with injections for weight loss

Self-medication with injections for weight loss is becoming more common, doctors are recording an increase in complications due to incorrectly selected dosages. Endocrinologist and nutritionist Irina Kumysheva and director of the Geropharm Research Center Roman Dry explained on November 30 to Izvestia who really needs injection therapy and what risks the desire to lose weight carries without the supervision of specialists.

"In fact, modern drugs based on semaglutide and tirzepatide have changed the approach to the treatment of obesity. They regulate eating behavior, reducing hunger and reducing cravings for high—calorie foods, and also have a direct effect on adipose tissue, activating its breakdown and contributing to a decrease in fat reserves in the body," explained Dry.

According to him, such drugs are prescribed only to patients with medical indications, including a high body mass index, metabolic syndrome or risk of developing diabetes. The growing popularity of these drugs has led to the fact that many have started using them without consulting a doctor, which makes treatment ineffective and dangerous.

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In addition, Kumysheva added that self-medication can lead to severe side effects, including gastrointestinal disorders, dehydration, pancreatitis, anxiety and depression. She noted that rapid weight loss carries risks in itself: 40-50% of people who have lost weight dramatically experience hair loss, and a decrease in muscle mass is observed in the first months in almost all patients. An additional consequence may be the formation of gallstones, which are detected in 10-40% of people within a year after a sharp weight loss.

Experts emphasize that drugs require precise dosage selection and constant monitoring. If the therapy is conducted by a doctor, he evaluates the patient's condition, adjusts the treatment and monitors possible complications. When used independently, people face either a complete lack of effect or serious disorders requiring medical attention. Injections can be useful only in combination with lifestyle changes: nutrition, physical activity and control of behavioral factors.

"These drugs are not a magic pill that makes a person slim and healthy without their own efforts. The drug can provide temporary support, but if a person does not change their habits, the weight quickly returns. In this context, the role of pharmacotherapy is more supportive than central," concluded Drai.

On September 1, nutritionist Galina Leonova gave advice on how to calculate calories correctly. To calculate the daily allowance, you can use the Harris–Benedict formula or online calculators. According to the expert, calorie reduction remains the safest way to lose weight, unlike severe starvation. At the same time, it is important to maintain a feeling of fullness and choose high-quality products.

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