## Weight Loss Drugs and Risks in Hong Kong
The provided text discusses the non-medical use of weight loss drugs, specifically Wegovy, in Hong Kong and the ease with which they can be obtained without a prescription. As of January 24, 2024, reports continue to surface regarding the accessibility of these medications outside of regulated medical channels, though specific updates on Hong Kong enforcement actions since the original reporting are limited.
### Wegovy and Potential Health Risks
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription medication approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or who are overweight with at least one weight-related condition. The U.S. Food and Drug Management (FDA) approved Wegovy in June 2021. Using such drugs for cosmetic purposes, even in individuals not clinically obese, carries potential medical risks, including serious adverse effects and, in rare cases, death. A medical professional should assess individual health status and determine appropriate treatment.
Detail: Semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which regulates appetite and food intake. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. more serious, though less common, risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney failure, and potential thyroid tumors observed in animal studies.
Example: The European Medicines Agency (EMA) assessment report details the complete risk evaluation conducted before Wegovy’s approval, highlighting the need for careful patient selection and monitoring.
### Availability of Weight Loss Drugs Without Prescription in Hong Kong
The text reports that weight loss medications, including Wegovy, were available in Hong Kong from vendors on Carousell, online stores, and a local pharmacy without requiring a prescription. This practise is illegal, as semaglutide is a prescription-only medicine in Hong Kong. The Department of Health (DH) in Hong Kong has issued warnings about the illegal sale of pharmaceutical products online and through unauthorized channels.Detail: hong Kong’s Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance regulates the sale and distribution of pharmaceutical products. Selling prescription-only medicines without a valid prescription is a criminal offense, punishable by fines and imprisonment. The DH actively monitors the market and takes enforcement action against illegal vendors.
Example: In december 2023, Hong Kong police raided online pharmacies and seized HK$1 million worth of weight loss drugs, demonstrating ongoing efforts to combat the illegal trade.### Carousell Seller and Pricing of Wegovy
The investigation found a Carousell seller offering Wegovy obtained from a hospital in mainland China, priced at HK$2,000 for 0.25mg and HK$2,500 for 0.5mg. This practice raises concerns about the authenticity and quality of the medication, as well as the potential for counterfeit products.
Detail: Purchasing medications from unregulated sources carries notable risks. The drugs might potentially be counterfeit, substandard, or improperly stored, leading to ineffective treatment or adverse health effects. Importing prescription drugs into Hong Kong without proper authorization is also illegal.
Example: Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department provides facts on the dangers of counterfeit drugs and the legal consequences of dealing in such products. They actively conduct enforcement operations to intercept and seize counterfeit pharmaceuticals.