A few extra kilograms on the weighing scale, an unflattering photograph or a mean comment on body weight can trigger a desperate pursuit of a perfect body. In an age where social media influencers flaunt dramatic transformation and celebrate unrealistic beauty standards, a dangerous trend is catching on in the society where people are going for quick fix. They are rampantly buying weight loss drugs with blatant disregard to medical complications later on, raising concerns about self-medication. The pressure to look slim, toned and camera-ready is not limited to women. Men, too, are increasingly exposed to expectations of lean physique and muscular body. From body shaming comments to comparisons with edited photographs, everything can turn appearance into a source of insecurity, pushing people towards shortcuts without considering the consequences. Dr Atul Rajkondawar, Head of the Department (Medicine), Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), warned that weight loss medicines can be hazardous when taken without medical supervision.

 

“Drugs can cause side effects such as nausea and other complications, stressing that people should never take pills on their own and must consume them only when prescribed by a physician,” stated Dr Rajkondawar. He also cautioned that, in extreme cases, excessive use could lead to loss of eyesight. Easy availability of products online has added another dimension to the problem. People influenced by online trends can order weight loss pills and products without fully understanding their ingredients, suitability or potential side effects. With purchasing options readily accessible on digital platforms, consumers may be tempted to experiment with medicines without consulting a healthcare professional.

 

Experts said, consequences may emerge only after adverse reactions force them to seek medical attention. Weight loss medications can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation and abdominal discomfort. Depending on the medicine, more serious complications can include gallbladder problems, pancreatitis and dehydration. Rapid weight loss can also contribute to muscle loss, particularly when accompanied by inadequate nutrition. The problem is not medically supervised use of weight-loss drugs to treat obesity, but the pressure to use them to meet unrealistic beauty standards. Weight management should be guided by individual health needs, not online validation. No body shape is worth risking one’s health, and no social media trend should ever replace an expert’s advice.