BVI health ministry warns residents off weight loss injections sold through WhatsApp and Facebook

ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands. The British Virgin Islands Ministry of Health and Social Development has warned residents against importing, buying or using unregulated weight loss injections and peptides being advertised and distributed through social media and other informal channels.

The warning follows reports of the products being offered in the territory through closed WhatsApp groups and Facebook pages, and of injections being imported through courier services for personal use or resale.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronald Georges said the products may pose serious health risks, particularly when obtained without medical supervision or from unverified suppliers.

"Weight-loss injections must be obtained through legitimate medical and pharmacy channels. Products bought on social media or sent through a courier can cause serious harm," Dr Georges said.

He said that while some weight management medications may be appropriate for certain people, their use must be guided by a registered medical practitioner after a proper medical assessment.

Risks

According to the ministry, products from unregulated channels may contain unknown ingredients, incorrect doses or harmful contaminants, while improper storage and unsafe injection practices can increase the risk of complications.

Possible consequences include severe nausea, vomiting, dehydration, allergic reactions, pancreatitis, liver or kidney injury and infections. Some complications may require hospital treatment.

The ministry said the sale, distribution or administration of unregulated injectable products through unlawful channels is prohibited, and those involved may face investigation and enforcement action.

Residents who have already obtained such products are advised to stop taking further doses until they have consulted a registered medical practitioner or pharmacist. Anyone who develops severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fainting, breathing difficulties, facial swelling, fever or signs of infection after an injection should seek medical attention immediately.

Suspected unlawful advertising, sale, distribution or administration of the products can be reported to the chief of drugs and pharmaceuticals, Gracia Wheatley-Smith, on (284) 468-9850.