The Use of Medications and Promotional Products for Weight Loss in Obese Individuals: Motivations and Health and Social Impacts

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a major global health challenge that has driven widespread public interest in pharmacological and promotional weight-loss products. The rapid proliferation of these products, many of which are unregulated, raises significant health and safety concerns, highlighting an urgent need to understand the behavioral patterns of users. Objective: This study aims to investigate the prevalence, underlying psychosocial motivations, and the health and social impacts of using weight-loss medications and promotional products among obese individuals in Al-Diwaniyah Governorate, Iraq. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted targeting adult individuals (aged 18 and older) with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of ≥ 30 kg/m². Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic characteristics, product usage patterns, primary motivations, and self-reported adverse side effects. Results: The study revealed a remarkably high prevalence of weight-loss product usage, with 78% of the participants reporting previous or current use. The sample was predominantly composed of females (84%) and urban residents (96%). The majority of users obtained these products through medical prescriptions (68%) and utilized them for a duration of one to three months (58%). Crucially, 70% of the users experienced adverse side effects, including nausea, dizziness, and heart palpitations. Despite these health issues, 42% of the affected individuals continued consuming the products. Conclusion: The use of weight-loss products is highly prevalent among urban females in Al-Diwaniyah, heavily driven by societal and body image pressures. The alarming continuation of product consumption despite experiencing adverse side effects underscores a critical need for enhanced medical supervision, strict regulatory enforcement, and targeted public health awareness campaigns regarding safe weight management.