Weight Loss Drugs in Pakistan: Usage, Risks, and Global Sports Perspective

 

Musarrat Ullah Jan , KikxNow Digital Creator

The growing focus on physical fitness among Pakistan’s youth, coupled with rising obesity rates, has led to a surge in the use of weight loss drugs. Medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Semaglutide are becoming increasingly popular in the country, despite limited public awareness about their potential risks and misuse. Globally, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has increased monitoring of these drugs due to concerns that they may give elite athletes an unfair advantage. In Pakistan and other countries, the non-therapeutic use of these drugs is also on the rise.

Semaglutide-based drugs were initially developed for patients with diabetes. They help reduce weight by improving insulin sensitivity and suppressing appetite. However, in recent years, these medications have become popular for non-medical use as well.

Ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, WADA has begun evaluating the possibility of banning these drugs. The agency is assessing whether these drugs provide athletes with unfair advantages in strength, endurance, or speed, or pose health risks. According to WADA, if a drug meets at least two of the three criteria—unfair performance advantage, health risk, or violation of sporting principles—it may be added to the list of prohibited substances.

The rising prevalence of obesity in Pakistan has fueled demand for weight loss drugs. Online platforms, fitness instructors, and social media have contributed to a growing trend among youth to use these drugs. In major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, people are reportedly using these medications without medical guidance, seeking rapid weight loss and improved body shape.

This trend is risky because most users are unaware of the potential side effects. Use of Semaglutide can lead to nutritional deficiencies, low energy levels, muscle weakness, and long-term injuries. Furthermore, using these drugs without a medical condition like diabetes can disrupt normal bodily functions.

Health and nutrition experts in Pakistan warn that unnecessary use of weight loss drugs can be hazardous to physical health. Dr. Ian Beasley, former Team GB physician, has stated that these drugs can deprive muscles of essential nutrients, causing long-term physical damage. He added, “Athletes may try to use these drugs during the off-season to gain an unfair advantage in competition, but the health consequences can be severe.”

The same risks are present in Pakistan, as youth are increasingly using these drugs under the pressure of fitness and appearance, often without awareness of possible side effects.

According to WADA’s senior director Dr. Olivier Rabin, the approach to weight management in global sports is changing. The agency is monitoring whether athletes misuse these drugs to gain an unfair advantage in power, endurance, or speed. If WADA bans these drugs, some athletes may still qualify for Therapeutic Use Exemptions, such as patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Currently, Pakistan lacks strict regulations regarding the use of weight loss drugs. Most of these medications are available in pharmacies or online, and no prescription is required for purchase. This makes it easy for youth and the general public to use them without oversight. Health experts are expressing concern over this unregulated market and calling on the government and relevant authorities to monitor usage.

Key risks associated with weight loss drugs include:

• Nutritional deficiencies and low energy: The body may not receive essential nutrients for muscles and organs, leading to fatigue.
• Long-term injuries: Weak muscles increase the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
• Heart health risks: Research indicates that Semaglutide may affect long-term cardiovascular health.
• Psychological pressure: Youth and athletes may experience mental stress due to body image and performance pressures, exacerbated by drug use.

Health experts in Pakistan recommend exercise, balanced diet, and lifestyle changes as safer and more effective ways to manage weight. Effective alternatives include:

• Daily exercise and cardio routines
• Balanced nutrition with adequate protein and vegetables
• Proper hydration
• Attention to sleep and mental well-being

These approaches offer long-term benefits while protecting physical health and avoiding the risks associated with weight loss drugs.

The use of weight loss drugs is rising in Pakistan, but the dangers of non-therapeutic use cannot be ignored. WADA’s global monitoring highlights the significance of this issue in both health and sports integrity. Youth and athletes should prioritize fitness and healthy lifestyles over medication reliance. Authorities should enforce monitoring to prevent unsafe use of these drugs.

Public awareness, effective regulations, and healthy alternatives can help Pakistani youth achieve better physical and mental health while avoiding unfair advantages in sports, in line with international regulations.

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