Test in America revealed that counterfeit product was being marketed on unregulated websites containing sibutramine instead of the active ingredient orlistat. The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has now sent a warning to consumers.

“Buying weight loss medication from unregulated websites is a dangerous way to slim down. You don’t know what you’re taking and your condition is not being monitored by a healthcare professional. It’s just not worth taking that type of risk,” said Mick Deats, MHRA Head of Enforcement.