Would You Get Your Contraceptive Pill from a Hairdresser?

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Earlier this month, research published in BMC Medicine in collaboration with Cancer Research UK found that at least 1.6 million UK adults have used weight loss jabs in the past year, with an additional 3.3 million expressing interest over the next 12 months.

The explosion in demand for these weight loss treatments has created a dangerous parallel market. Counterfeit medications are flooding the UK, and the consequences of both fake products and incorrect dosing can be severe.

It's important to understand that GLP-1 and GIP medications are POM (Prescription Only Medicine). And just like any other prescription medication, they cannot legally be sourced from anyone other than a doctor. So that’s a big no to getting the injections from social media, the gym, beauty clinics or online marketplaces. Ask yourself this, would you get the contraceptive pill from the hairdressers? Or your beta blockers from the gym?

If your medication was not prescribed by a registered clinician, there is a good chance it's counterfeit. These fake products can contain unknown substances, incorrect dosages, or dangerous contaminants that put your health at serious risk.

At Yazen, patient safety is and always has been our top priority, which is why we're sharing our top tips to help you identify illegitimate sellers and allow you to spread the word if anyone you know is taking non-prescribed medication which could put their lives at risk.

Top Three Tips:

#1: The Genuine Article™

Every legitimate provider must hold current registration with either the Care Quality Commission (CQC) or General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). This isn't optional—it's the law.

Before purchasing, always request the provider's registration number and verify it directly through the CQC or GPhC websites. Legitimate providers will happily share this information. If someone becomes defensive, evasive, or claims they "don't need registration," you're dealing with a scammer.

#2: Burn After Reading 

Professional medical services maintain comprehensive documentation. You should receive consultation notes, prescription details, treatment plans, and clear aftercare contact information—all in writing. For Yazen patients, this is done via an app so it’s always available alongside access to a qualified doctor and support from a full care team consisting of a health coach, dietician, psychologist and physiotherapist.

#3: No Questions Asked 

Perhaps the biggest warning sign: you're approved based on photos alone, with no real medical assessment. That's no questions about your medical history, contraindications, or whether this treatment is actually right for you. 

At Yazen, we take a fundamentally different approach. Every patient undergoes thorough medical assessment by registered clinicians via the app. We provide comprehensive support throughout your journey, including nutritional guidance, lifestyle coaching, and ongoing medical monitoring. Research shows that this holistic model produces better and more sustainable results than medication alone.

Learn more about our evidence-based approach to weight management here.