TikTok scam promises popular weight loss drugs without a prescription

Weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic have exploded in popularity over the past couple of years, prompting a shortage. In the midst of the skyrocketing demand, scammers on social media have taken notice by offering to ship weight loss drugs for lower prices — and without a prescription.

A joint investigation conducted from February through April by the nonprofits Digital Citizens Alliance and Coalition for a Safer Web examined dozens of TikTok profiles offering to sell the prescription weight loss drugs at lower prices. In nearly every situation, the transaction turned out to be a scam.

Some of the videos researchers found offering the weight loss drugs used testimonials, along with before and after photos showing what appeared to be results. One video featured a supposed customer's comment, which said, "Great product, fast shipping and I lost 16 pounds already."