GLP‑1 weight‑loss injection pens warned for health risks in Brazil

Weight‑loss injection pens that deliver GLP‑1 analogues have become a recent medical phenomenon in Brazil, gaining popularity among celebrities. Dr. Gustavo Sá, a specialist in obesity and longevity, stresses that the drugs are tools for medical use, not over‑the‑counter products, and must be prescribed after thorough clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. He notes common side effects such as nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort, and the risk of weight regain if patients do not adopt lasting lifestyle changes. “Each body responds differently; there is no universal protocol,” he says.

Dental experts also warn of oral‑health complications linked to the same medications. According to dentist Raquel da Hora, reduced stomach emptying and appetite suppression can cause frequent vomiting and dry mouth, which damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and oral infections. She explains that repeated exposure to gastric acid dissolves hydroxyapatite crystals in enamel, leading to irreversible demineralisation. Both specialists urge patients to use the pens only under medical supervision and to monitor any side effects closely.