Azra Hoosen | ah@radioislam.co.za
26 June 2024 | 12:00 CAT
3 min read

As South Africa observes Drug Awareness Week, healthcare professionals are sounding the alarm about the misuse of weight-loss drugs. The South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) has expressed concern over the growing trend of individuals taking these medications in higher than recommended doses or without a prescription.

With nearly half of South Africans over the age of 15 being “highly dissatisfied” with their body size, the potential for abuse of these drugs is significant. Experts warn that improper use of weight-loss medications can lead to serious long-term health consequences, underscoring the importance of proper medical supervision and care in weight management.

Speaking to Radio Islam, SASOP psychiatrist Dr Farzana Tarajia expressed her concerns, stating that society has grown accustomed to seeking “quick fixes” for weight issues. This mentality has led to the dangerous trend of using medications not recommended for weight loss or using them off-label. Dr Tarajia emphasised the need for caution and proper medical guidance in addressing weight management.

“When you use medication for a purpose other than what it was indicated, you may cause other serious side effects. Long-term you don’t know if it will be detrimental to your kidney, or liver and if it will cause other psychological problems, affecting moods or sleep, causing anxiety etc.,” she said.

Dr. Tarajia stressed the importance of identifying the underlying reasons behind an individual’s weight struggles. “If you haven’t been assessed by a doctor before starting any medication, you might be missing something else that could be easily treated. For example, thyroid problems cause weight issues or PCOS,” she said.

She also pointed out the dangers of placing too much value on the number displayed on a scale, calling it a “scary mindset.”

“As psychiatrists, we are aware that patients may have eating orders, and the root of this is often psychological in nature. These are linked to other disorders, such as anxiety disorders,” she added.

Dr. Tarajia noted a concerning shift in the demographics affected by this issue, stating that they are seeing a shift across the spectrum, and adolescents are particularly vulnerable. “Currently our adolescents are exposed to social media, where there are idealised images that they feel they need to aspire to. It is both male and female. We even see adults varying in age. It could stem from various reasons,” she said.

Dr. Tarajia emphasised the crucial role parents play in shaping their children’s perceptions. “If I as a mother express verbal dissatisfaction with my body, and I have an impressionable child, then they will also assume that my worst is associated with my weight. We need to have regular conversations about what is healthy as a family. We should talk about sunnah habits of eating and taking walks or doing physical activities as a family, that is important,” she said.

She cautioned against relying on quick fixes for weight loss, urging a realistic approach focused on intentions and professional advice. She emphasised that using medication for weight loss requires accompanying lifestyle changes, and one needs to be prepared to commit to these changes for lasting results.

She expressed caution about using supplements. “A lot of supplements are not endorsed by a medical research council. A lot of people don’t recognise that even if something is marketed as being natural, you don’t know what processes have gone into to manufacture, if you have an underlying medical condition, you don’t know whether it is going to interact with other medication,” she said.

Dr. Tarajia advised that if a personal trainer recommends supplements, it’s important to consult your GP to ensure they’re suitable for your medical history.

LISTEN to the full interview with Ml Habib Bobat and SASOP psychiatrist Dr Farzana Tarajia, here.