The Ministry of Health and Social Development is warning about the negative effects of unregulated weight-loss drugs, advising residents against purchasing them. Photo: Internet Source

Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronald E. Georges cautioned that unregulated weight loss products may pose serious health risks, particularly when obtained without medical supervision or through unverified suppliers. Photo: File

Severe nausea, vomiting, dehydration, allergic reactions, pancreatitis, liver and/or kidney injury and infections are among potential health consequences of unregulated weightloss drug use. Photo: Internet Source

Residents are encouraged to to report suspected unlawful advertising, sale, distribution or administration of unregulated weightloss products to the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Gracia Wheatley-Smith. Photo: GIS/File

In a statement released on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, the ministry warned residents against importing these unregulated weight-loss injections and peptides for personal use. 

These drugs are being advertised and distributed through social media and other informal channels in the Virgin Islands, it added. Reports indicate products are being offered in the Virgin Islands through closed WhatsApp groups and Facebook pages, and that injections are being imported via courier services for personal use or resale. 

Proper medical oversight

Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronald E. Georges cautioned that these products may pose serious health risks, particularly when obtained without medical supervision or through 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 explained that while certain weight-management medications may be appropriate for some individuals, a registered medical practitioner must guide their use after a proper medical assessment.

Potential health consequences

The Ministry added that products obtained through unregulated channels may contain unknown ingredients, incorrect dosages or harmful contaminants. Improper storage and unsafe injection practices can also increase the risk of serious complications.

Severe nausea, vomiting, dehydration, allergic reactions, pancreatitis, liver and/or kidney injury and infections are among potential health consequences, with hospitalisation being required in some cases.

Persons who have already obtained these products are being advised to refrain from taking further doses until they have consulted a registered medical practitioner or pharmacist.

Those who experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fainting, breathing difficulties, facial swelling, fever or signs of infection following an injection should seek immediate medical attention. 

Prohibited; report suspected unlawful advertising

The sale, distribution or administration of unregulated injectable products through unlawful channels is prohibited, and persons involved in these activities may be subject to investigation and enforcement action.

Residents are therefore strongly advised not to purchase, share or administer weight loss injections obtained through social media sellers, informal distributors or other unverified sources.

The Ministry is also encouraging residents to report suspected unlawful advertising, sale, distribution or administration of these products to the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, Mrs Gracia Wheatley-Smith, at (284) 468-9850 or grwheatley-smith@gov.vg.

Where possible, reports should include photographs of products, screenshots of advertisements, seller information and relevant purchase or delivery details.