This Ridiculous TikTok Trend Might Be Why There’s A Diabetes Medication Shortage

While there’s no shortage of silly TikTok trends, one of the most recent fads to sweep the platform could potentially be more dangerous. 

According to a statement by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, several medical bodies have confirmed a shortage of injectable diabetes medication, due to what it said was an “unexpected increase in consumer demand.”

However, The Guardian reported the medication—more commonly known as Ozempic—has surged in popularity due to its use for weight and obesity management, leaving a significant shortage for those actually suffering from diabetes. 

The rise in the use of the drug can be traced back to TikTok, where users have been documenting their “weight loss journeys” during the medication’s hashtag, which has nearly 80 million views in total. 

As per Input, it seems this alternative use of Ozempic has particularly taken off in Australia, though it must be noted the medication has not received approval in the country or the UK for weight loss management. 

Dr Karen Price, President of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, cautioned that there were side effects to using the drug as a weight loss tool, including nausea, vomiting, and even contractions if one is pregnant or breastfeeding. 

More urgently, the rising demand for the medication is preventing those with a genuine need from receiving their orders, and a refill isn’t expected till mid-June. 

While social media can certainly be used to promote healthy and positive ideas, it sometimes backfires. Safety risks aside, hopefully those joining the weight loss craze on TikTok will allow patients who need the medication most to receive their doses. 

[via Input and The Guardian, cover image via Mariusika11 | Dreamstime.com]