Issue No. 539 — Weight Loss Injections Are Not a Miracle Cure! Do You Understand the Side Effects?

“Weight Loss Injections” Are Trending — But Do You Really Understand Them?

While weight loss is a common goal for many people, medications are not suitable for everyone and should never be purchased casually.

Before using them, make sure you meet the proper criteria:

Who is eligible?

• Adults: BMI ≥ 30, or BMI 27–30 with comorbidities such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia.
• Adolescents (12 years and older): Obese and weighing over 60 kg (must be evaluated by a physician).

Three Principles for Safe Medication Use

• Consult a physician: A professional diagnosis and prescription are required.
• Dispensed by a pharmacist: Fill prescriptions at a pharmacy where proper verification and guidance are provided.
• No online or unauthorized purchases: Never buy from the internet or private sources to avoid counterfeit or substandard drugs.

For healthy weight loss, it’s important to focus not only on effectiveness but also on how your body responds.

When using weight loss injections, common side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
• Bowel changes: diarrhea or constipation
• General symptoms: fatigue

Although these side effects are common, tolerance varies from person to person. If symptoms become severe or persist, do not endure them silently or adjust the dosage on your own. Seek medical advice from your physician or pharmacist as soon as possible.

Healthy weight loss should be a combination of lifestyle changes and proper medical support.

Source:Taiwan Food and Drug Administration