Doctors Warn Against Misuse of Weight Loss Drug in Pakistan

In recent months, the misuse of weight loss drug in Pakistan has increased at an alarming rate, especially among celebrities, social figures, and young adults who want to lose weight quickly. Semaglutide, a drug originally created for patients with type-2 diabetes, has become extremely popular for its rapid weight-loss effects. However, medical experts are now strongly warning the public about the dangerous consequences of using this medication without proper supervision.

The rising trend shows how fast people are turning toward shortcuts instead of adopting healthy and long-lasting lifestyle changes. While the drug does help reduce weight, the risks attached to its misuse can lead to severe and sometimes life-threatening health problems.

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What Makes Semaglutide So Popular in Pakistan?

Semaglutide is a weekly injection that was never designed for general weight loss. Doctors prescribe it mainly to diabetic patients to help control blood sugar and manage glucose levels. The medicine slows down the movement of food in the stomach and intestines. This process helps people feel full for a longer time, reducing appetite and naturally decreasing calorie intake.

When celebrities started showing quick weight-loss results, many people believed they could achieve the same results easily. This created a huge demand for the drug, with many individuals trying to buy it without consulting a medical professional. Unfortunately, this growing popularity also increased unsafe usage and self-medication.

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Dangers of Using Semaglutide for Quick Weight Loss

Doctors across Pakistan have made it very clear: Semaglutide is not a general-purpose slimming injection. Using it without proper medical guidance can be extremely harmful.

Common Side Effects Many Users Experience

Even at normal doses, Semaglutide may cause:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue

These symptoms may not seem serious at first, but they can worsen quickly if the dosage is incorrect.

Serious Health Risks Linked to Misuse

Experts have warned about life-threatening conditions linked to high or frequent doses of Semaglutide:

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Thyroid cancer
• Gallstones
• Severe dehydration
• Mood changes or depression
• Impaired vision
• Breathing difficulties
• Calcium deficiency
• Worsening diabetic retinopathy

When people use the drug every second or third day instead of once a week, the risk becomes even higher. Some individuals start with high doses to get faster results, not knowing that they may be harming their organs permanently.

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Why Celebrities Using Semaglutide Have Increased Public Interest

According to Dr. Shehryar, a plastic surgeon at JPMC, Semaglutide use has become extremely popular among Pakistani actors and well-known personalities. Many celebrities have lost several kilograms in record time, and their dramatic transformation has inspired others to try the same.

But what the public does not see is the medical supervision behind these cases. Even celebrities experience strong side effects, yet people try to copy them without understanding the risks.

Dr. Shehryar warns that the drug is powerful and can cause dangerous reactions if taken carelessly. He urges people to consult a doctor before considering Semaglutide and avoid self-injecting at home.

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How Wrong Dosages Are Causing Major Health Problems

Doctors have revealed that many users are misusing the drug by:

• Injecting higher doses
• Using it more than once a week
• Combining it with other weight-loss pills
• Reducing food intake drastically

The recommended starting dose is only 0.25 mg per week, but some people ignore this instruction and begin with much higher amounts. Such behavior increases the chances of:

• Hormonal imbalance
• Rapid loss of muscle mass
• Excessive weakness
• Dehydration
• Organ damage

Some users even experience emotional changes or anxiety because the drug affects appetite and metabolism.

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Medical Experts Speak Out About Rising Misuse in Pakistan

Professor Abdullah Muttaqi, President of the Pakistan Islamic Medical Association Sindh, explained that Pakistan is following the same trend seen worldwide. While Semaglutide does slow gastric emptying, reduce appetite, and help with insulin regulation, he warns that these benefits should only apply to diabetic patients or people with medical approval.

He also mentioned unusual side effects such as nosebleeds, throat inflammation, and breathing problems—symptoms that people often ignore until they become severe.

His biggest concern is that people want to lose weight quickly and jump to medications instead of changing their lifestyle. This mindset increases the chances of misuse and long-term damage.

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Safer Alternatives for Healthy Weight Loss

Experts emphasize that the healthiest and safest way to lose weight does not involve shortcuts or quick fixes. Instead, doctors recommend:

1. A Balanced Diet

Eating meals rich in proteins, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains helps the body lose weight naturally without harming vital organs.

2. Regular Exercise

Even 30 minutes of walking or light activity every day can make a huge difference in weight and overall health.

3. Adequate Sleep

Poor sleep slows down metabolism. Getting 7–8 hours of sleep helps maintain a healthy weight.

4. Drinking Enough Water

Good hydration supports digestion, reduces cravings, and prevents dehydration—one of the biggest side effects of weight-loss injections.

These natural methods may take time, but they are safe, reliable, and free from dangerous side effects.

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Why People Should Avoid Self-Medicating With Semaglutide

Self-medication has become extremely common in Pakistan, but when it involves powerful drugs like Semaglutide, the dangers multiply. Without proper medical tests, monitoring, and correct dosage instructions, people can cause serious harm to their bodies.

Doctors strongly advise the public to never buy or use Semaglutide without a prescription. Weight loss should never come at the cost of long-term health.

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Conclusion

The misuse of weight loss drug in Pakistan is becoming a serious health concern. While Semaglutide may help with weight loss, it is not meant for casual or cosmetic use. Doctors warn that using it in higher doses or without monitoring can lead to severe conditions like pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, and gallstones.

Healthy weight loss is always safer and more effective when you follow medical advice, eat balanced meals, stay active, and avoid dangerous shortcuts. Before using any weight-loss medication, it is essential to consult a qualified doctor to protect your long-term health.