Moroccan drug agency warns against dangerous use of corticosteroids for weight gain

The agency notes that some women are using these medications to increase appetite or induce water retention, aiming to meet certain beauty standards. This trend is exacerbated by misleading content on social media that promotes rapid and supposedly harmless results. However, the AMMPS emphasizes that prolonged use of corticosteroids without medical supervision can lead to severe health consequences, including diabetes, high blood pressure, bone fragility, significant hormonal imbalances, and psychiatric disorders such as depression.

The agency also warns against purchasing these drugs outside regulated channels, as counterfeit corticosteroids often contain toxic substances like mercury or arsenic. The AMMPS advises patients to strictly adhere to prescribed usage, obtain medications only from pharmacies, and be wary of "miracle" products advertised online. Patients are encouraged to report any adverse effects or suspicious products via the official AMMPS platform.

Additionally, the agency urges healthcare professionals, especially pharmacists, to enhance their advisory and awareness roles to prevent misuse and curb this practice.