THE ESSENTIAL
- GLP-1 drugs purchased on the dark web, such as semaglutide or liraglutide, are often falsified or contaminated, making their use dangerous for health.
- These products escape the rigorous controls of health authorities, exposing consumers to substances such as opioids or fentanyl.
- Using GLP-1 without medical advice can cause serious side effects, such as stomach upset, kidney damage, or even cancer.
GLP-1 drugs, such as semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide, are commonly used to promote weight loss and improve the management of certain diseases. However, when purchased from unregulated platforms, it is almost impossible to guarantee their quality and authenticity. According to a survey published by Healthnewsthe majority of these drugs come from Europe (10 out of 23 products), followed by the United States (7 out of 23) and India (5 out of 23). These medications can be shipped worldwide, with a total of 13 out of 23 products available internationally. The origin and composition of these products often remain unclear. In many cases, products sold as GLP-1 are potentially adulterated or contaminated.
Health risks: uncontrolled and potentially dangerous products
Experts say drugs purchased on the dark web do not undergo the rigorous testing that drugs approved by health authorities, such as the FDA, must pass. This means that there is no guarantee on their exact composition, their effectiveness, nor their absence of danger. Indeed, several cases of contamination have been reported, making these medications potentially dangerous for the health of consumers. Undeclared substances, such as opioids or fentanyl, have been found in tablets believed to be GLP-1.
Using GLP-1 without medical supervision can cause serious side effects, such as stomach problems (diarrhea, vomiting, pancreatitis), thyroid problems, and even cancer. Patients without the necessary supervision are also more likely to suffer from dehydration or kidney damage due to incorrect dosing. Lack of medical control can lead to unpredictable and severe complications, hence the importance of strict monitoring when administering these medications.
A worrying investigation…
The Healthnews investigation highlights not only the health risks linked to the falsification and contamination of medicines, but also the increase in dangerous substances such as fentanyl present in the products sold. Fentanyl is an extremely powerful opioid that can cause a fatal overdose even in low doses. This phenomenon further accentuates the dangers of purchasing GLP-1 drugs on the dark web.
Health
