Fitness expert Jillian Michaels has issued a warning about the dangers of using unregulated, gray-market weight-loss peptides bought online. On the “Fox News Rundown,” Michaels emphasized the significant health risks associated with these unapproved compounds, such as heart problems, vision issues, and hormonal imbalances.
She stressed the importance of consulting a doctor before considering these peptides, cautioning against the mindset of treating them as miracle drugs sourced from questionable places online.
“These are very significant things that need to be further researched and discussed with your doctor,” Michaels said during her conversation with Fox News’ Alex Hogan.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reviewing seven popular peptides promoted for weight loss, healing, and longevity. Fitness expert Jillian Michaels highlighted the ease of obtaining these drugs online, noting that consumers often remain unaware of their true origins.
The federal government has responded to the illegal sale and dangerous marketing tactics surrounding GLP-1 compounds. Earlier this year, the FDA issued 30 warning letters to telehealth companies for false or misleading claims about these products.
An FDA official stated that compounded drugs can be crucial for addressing shortages or meeting specific patient needs. However, compounders must adhere to the FDA’s approval process.
In June, the FDA warned against unapproved GLP-1 drugs, citing hundreds of adverse event reports linked to these products. The agency emphasized that unapproved versions haven’t undergone FDA’s safety, effectiveness, and quality reviews. Vendors falsely labeling chemicals as “for research purposes only” were also criticized.
Michaels attributes the surge in illegal sales to people seeking quick weight loss, influenced by extreme body transformations in pop culture. She highlighted that individuals, especially in major cities, are obtaining these drugs for cosmetic reasons without medical necessity.
Comparisons to celebrities often lead to unrealistic expectations. However, Michaels pointed out severe side effects linked to unregulated peptide use, such as vision loss and suicidal thoughts. She also noted an aggressive hunger rebound when users stop using these compounds.
“You might think, ‘Oh, I’m doing this for my summer vacation,'” Michaels said. “But when you stop, you’re hungrier because you’ve impacted your body’s natural hormone production.”
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Michaels warned against the cycle of yo-yo dieting caused by these compounds, affirming that they’re not suitable for vanity purposes.
Madison Colombo, a writer for Fox News Digital, covers daily breaking news and trending topics in the Flash, Media, and Culture team.