BVI Health Ministry alerts public to black-market slimming drugs on social media

The Ministry of Health and Social Development has cautioned residents against acquiring slimming injections and peptides being marketed through informal online channels across the territory.

The alert comes after reports surfaced of these products being promoted in closed WhatsApp groups and on Facebook pages, with supplies also arriving via courier services for personal use or resale. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges stressed that such items carry substantial dangers when used outside proper medical oversight or sourced from unverified outlets.

"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.

Informally sourced medications may harbour undisclosed components, dosing errors or dangerous additives, the ministry cautioned. Inadequate storage conditions and improper injection technique further elevate the likelihood of adverse outcomes.

Users face risks including intense nausea, vomiting, fluid loss, hypersensitivity reactions, pancreatic inflammation, damage to the liver or kidneys and bacterial or viral infections. Severe cases may necessitate hospital admission.

While certain weight management drugs may suit particular patients, a qualified doctor must first evaluate the individual and oversee their use, the ministry stated. Selling, distributing or administering uncontrolled injectables through illegal means is unlawful, and those engaged in such conduct may face investigation and legal consequences.

Anyone who has already purchased these products should stop using them and consult a doctor or registered pharmacist before proceeding further. Those experiencing acute belly pain, uncontrolled vomiting, loss of consciousness, respiratory distress, throat or facial puffiness, elevated body temperature or infection signs after injection should seek urgent care.

The public is asked to report suspected illegal marketing, sale, distribution or administration to the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, Mrs. Gracia Wheatley-Smith, by phone at (284) 468-9850 or email at [email protected]. Information should include product photographs, ad screenshots, vendor details and transaction or delivery records where available.