Counterfeit weight loss pens in the UK: Why safe prescribing matters
- Tower Hill Clinic
- Oct 30
- 2 min read
In recent weeks, UK authorities have seized thousands of counterfeit “weight loss pens” being sold as if they were Mounjaro (tirzepatide). These pens were found to be illegally manufactured, mislabelled with incorrect dosages, and in some cases, contained substances not approved for human use in the UK.
This is not a minor issue. It is being treated as organised criminal activity, not a harmless side hustle, and there has already been a reported death in the UK linked to a fake injectable weight loss product administered outside of medical supervision.
Why is this so serious?
Patients are being misled into using medications with no traceability, no clinical oversight, and no quality control. Here’s why this presents a serious threat:
Unknown contents: Counterfeit pens may contain incorrect doses, no active ingredient, or unsafe chemicals.
Storage issues: Many require refrigeration. If mishandled, degradation can lead to ineffective or dangerous results.
No clinical assessment or monitoring: Patients are using powerful metabolic medications without knowing the risks, red flag symptoms, or what to do in an emergency.
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is a prescription medication, not a cosmetic for weight loss
Let’s be absolutely clear: Mounjaro is not a “quick slimming jab” to be casually bought through Instagram, WhatsApp, or beauty salons.
It is a prescription only medicine used for metabolic and weight related conditions. It requires:
A full clinical assessment
Understanding of your medical history and comorbidities
Consideration of drug interactions
Ongoing monitoring to adjust dose safely and track side effects
Prescribing this medication without proper medical oversight is not just unprofessional it is potentially lethal.
Tower Hill Clinic: safety and professionalism first
At Tower Hill Clinic, patient safety is our priority. If you are considering weight management support involving medications such as tirzepatide, you will receive:
A thorough medical history and metabolic assessment
Safe, traceable prescribing from a registered Independent Prescriber
Clear education on how to use the medication properly
Ongoing follow up, dose monitoring, and access to clinical support
Multidisciplinary support where needed (physiotherapy, nutrition, mental wellbeing)
This is how weight management care should be delivered ethically, legally, and with patient safety at the centre.
Already using an injectable you bought elsewhere?
If you are currently using a “weight loss pen” you purchased outside of regulated medical care and are experiencing symptoms such as:
Severe nausea or vomiting
Strong abdominal pain
Dizziness or confusion
Fainting or low blood pressure
You may be experiencing a serious side effect. Please seek emergency medical attention immediately.
You deserves proper medical care
Do not risk your wellbeing with counterfeit or unverified injectables. Book a safe, professional consultation to discuss your options with a qualified prescriber. Your health deserves more than shortcuts.
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