Public warned vs. unsupervised use of Ozempic for weight loss

Lifestyle | Health & Family Posted on 2026-03-11 01:42:02

MANILA – The Philippine College of Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM) on Tuesday cautioned the public against purchasing weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic from online sellers, emphasizing that the medication should only be used under a doctor’s supervision due to possible health risks and the spread of unverified products in the market.

During a press briefing, PCEDM vice president Elaine Cunanan said the drug’s main component, semaglutide, was originally developed to treat diabetes and has been proven effective in lowering blood sugar levels.

Research has also shown that the medication may help reduce the risk of kidney complications and cardiovascular diseases among patients.

Another drug, tirzepatide, has also demonstrated similar benefits in managing diabetes and improving metabolic health.

Cunanan explained that weight loss was first observed as a side effect among diabetic patients who were using these medications. This later encouraged researchers to explore their potential use for individuals who are overweight or obese.

However, she stressed that these medications should only be taken when medically necessary and with proper guidance from a healthcare professional.

“These medicines are effective, but they should be supervised by a physician because there are criteria to determine which obese patients actually need them,” she said.

The warning comes as more Filipinos—particularly those struggling with excess weight—turn to weight-loss medications promoted on social media and online marketplaces.

Health experts say the growing demand reflects the increasing cases of obesity in the country.

According to the Philippine Association for the Study of Overweight and Obesity, recent data presented by medical groups show that about 41 percent of Filipinos, or roughly 29.5 million people, are overweight or obese. This means that more than four in every 10 adults face a higher risk of developing chronic illnesses.

Among adults aged 20 to 59, studies also indicate that more than half are either overweight or obese, highlighting the scale of the public health concern.

Doctors said these medications may be prescribed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, even if they do not have diabetes.

Patients with a BMI of 27 or above may also qualify if they already have obesity-related conditions such as fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disease, or other metabolic complications.

For diabetic patients who are also overweight or obese, these medications may provide additional benefits, including improved blood sugar control and protection against heart and kidney problems.

Despite these advantages, health experts warned the public about the risks of buying the drugs online, particularly compounded or unverified versions.

Cunanan explained that some products sold online may contain the active ingredient but could also include other substances that may cause harmful side effects.

“So, meron na po kami nababalitaan na meron iba po na nagkakaside effect doon sa gamot na 'yun (We have received reports that some individuals experienced side effects from that medication),” she said.

The PCEDM has previously issued advisories warning against the use of compounded versions of the drug because their origin and quality cannot be guaranteed.

The group also raised concerns about possible contamination, as well as improper handling and storage of these medications.

Doctors further reminded the public that weight-loss medications are not meant for cosmetic purposes.

“For those who just want to be sexy, this is not the best way. Because if these medicines are stopped, there's a chance that the weight will go back,” Cunanan said.

“So the dictum here is not just about the medicine. As what we've mentioned earlier, very important is lifestyle,” she added.

Health experts emphasized that healthy eating, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and proper stress management remain the foundation of weight control, while medications should only be used as part of a comprehensive medical treatment plan.

NPO News Team | PNA Philippine News Agency - PR

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