Three Major Misconceptions Behind the Skinny Injection Craze: Doctor Advises 'Two Don'ts, One Do' Principle for Safe Weight Loss

In recent years, due to increasing demand for weight management, GLP-1 receptor agonists—commonly known as 'skinny injections'—have gained widespread attention. Discussions about overseas purchases and parallel imports are also prevalent on social media platforms. However, these incretin-based medications are classified as prescription drugs in Taiwan and must be prescribed only after a physician's diagnosis and evaluation. The general public is prohibited from purchasing them independently, and online sales are illegal. Acquiring medications from unverified sources may pose significant health risks.

Three Common Medication Misconceptions That May Compromise Safety and Rights

Dr. Hsiao Tun-Jen, Honorary President of the Obesity Research Society of Taiwan and院长 of Dunren Clinic, emphasized that 'skinny injections' are prescription-only medications and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified physician to ensure both legality and safety. Dr. Hsiao highlighted three common misconceptions:

### First: Believing overseas e-prescriptions guarantee legal and safe use

Many individuals purchasing from abroad assume that having an electronic prescription makes the process legal and safe. However, prescriptions issued by overseas platforms may not comply with Taiwan's medical regulations, and the drugs themselves have not undergone review by Taiwan's regulatory authorities or obtained a Taiwan drug license, raising serious safety concerns.

### Second: Carrying medications from abroad for self-injection or resale risks quality due to cold chain breaks

Individuals who bring 'skinny injections' into Taiwan from overseas, especially for self-injection or resale, may violate the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act. Additionally, Dr. Hsiao warned that purchasing incretin drugs through social media agents or online platforms carries risks. Most consumers are unaware of proper drug storage methods. Incretin medications are biologics requiring strict cold chain management throughout transportation and storage. During summer, prolonged outdoor exposure or extreme temperatures in aircraft cargo holds can disrupt the cold chain. Once broken, the drug's molecular structure may suffer irreversible damage, compromising efficacy.

### Third: Using medications without physician supervision leaves no support if side effects occur

Dr. Hsiao explained that prescription drugs require medical evaluation before use, and ongoing monitoring is essential after administration. Dosage adjustments must be made by a physician based on patient response. When individuals self-import and self-administer without medical supervision, they lack access to timely medical consultation if side effects arise. Moreover, since the drugs are obtained illegally, they do not qualify for compensation under Taiwan's Drug Injury Relief Act. Dr. Hsiao advises those seeking weight management to consult obesity specialists at licensed medical institutions in Taiwan for appropriate prescriptions.

Medical Advice: Follow the 'Two Don'ts, One Do' Principle for Safe Weight Management

Dr. Hsiao urges the public to follow the 'Two Don'ts, One Do' principle to protect health and medication safety:

- First: Do not purchase medications without a Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare license number - Second: Do not carry medications from abroad or engage in illegal online sales or purchases - Third: Do consult a qualified physician and use medications safely according to prescription

Dr. Hsiao concluded that weight management is a long-term commitment. By adjusting lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise, and consulting medical professionals to follow the 'weight management triangle' concept, individuals can achieve sustainable weight loss without rebound. Avoid unnecessary risks from improper medication use. To safeguard health and medication safety, the public should adhere to the 'Two Don'ts, One Do' principle.