UNITED KINGDOM / AGILITYPR.NEWS / March 25, 2025 / People taking weight loss jabs are being warned against the growing practise of using the ‘golden dose’ liquid left over in their injection pens as an additional, unregulated injection following a worrying new trend on social media. 

Digital health start-up Well by Vertis says social media platforms have seen a surge in content promoting the ‘golden dose’. This terminology refers to the small amount of liquid left in weight loss injection pens after the prescribed four doses have been administered. Some users are extracting this leftover medication using insulin needles and injecting it as an unauthorised fifth dose, believing it will improve their weight loss results and save them money.

The worrying aspect of this trend is that the buffer liquid left in the injection pen is not intended for use. The small 0.6ml of remaining liquid is part of the priming mechanism, ensuring the pen delivers the correct doses throughout its intended use. Manufacturing guidelines explicitly state that this liquid should not be used as an additional dose.

Stephanie Smith, Lead Nurse at Well by Vertis, warns against the dangers of self-medicating outside of prescribed guidelines.

"Weight loss injections are carefully designed and dosed to be safe and effective when used correctly. The ‘golden dose’ is an unsafe, unregulated practice that puts people at risk," she says. 

"The leftover liquid is not a full, measurable dose: it is an unknown quantity and may not contain the expected concentration of medication. Taking it could lead to an overdose, increased side effects, or even adverse health complications."

Higher doses than prescribed can lead to severe nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and gastrointestinal issues. There is also a risk of infections, as using insulin needles to extract the medication is not a sterile or recommended method. 

Most of all, using medication outside of its intended guidelines means any potential health risks or side effects may not be properly monitored by a medical professional.

Weight loss medications must always be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Well by Vertis provides ongoing monitoring, personalised support, and expert advice to ensure patients use these medications safely and effectively.

"Weight loss injections are not a quick fix: they require expert oversight, lifestyle changes, and responsible usage," Smith added. "It’s essential that patients follow prescribing guidelines and avoid unsafe practices they see on social media. Your health is not worth the risk."

For more information, visit https://www.wearewell.org.uk.