With the wedding season looming, a fast-paced trend among soon-to-be brides in urban India is developing quick weight loss thanks to injectable medications. Dubbed informally “bridal weight loss shots,” these therapies are increasing in popularity for their potential for rapid results around large celebrations. But doctors are warning of the dangers. Sarjapur’s Manipal Hospital, Dr Gurusangappa S. Mudagall, Associate Consultant Endocrinology, has cautioned against the indiscriminate use of drugs like Mounjaro for cosmetic weight loss. These drugs were designed to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity, but have become available to patients with otherwise good health and are used for purely cosmetic purposes.
The appeal is understandable. Weddings are typically attended by the heightened social pressure surrounding looks and clothing, as well as snapshots and images. There are lots of people who demand rapid transformations in a short time span. These injections act to balance blood sugar, slow digestion and lessen appetite, and in some cases, can cause rapid weight loss. But doctors say there are steep risks with this convenience.
“These drugs change the pathways and hormones. Without proper assessment and monitoring they can cause complications,” Dr Mudagall says. It can give, in some cases, enough effect to disrupt daily life.
The other is that improper dosing or self-medication increases the chances for complications, and they don’t usually respond. If medications don’t properly handle the physical side effects, they risk causing complications, as well.
One of the biggest issues being observed by endocrinologists today is the “rebound effect.” When the meds stop it is usually quick to regain appetite, and if lifestyle changes are not made, it is very common that the person will get back to putting on weight again.
This rhythm can also influence metabolic and emotional health. Medical experts insist that these injections are not shortcuts or frippery but prescription interventions that need close follow-up, dose adjustment and careful planning for the long term.
Patients are advised to undergo a full medical evaluation before considering such treatments and to avoid trend-driven decisions influenced by social media or peer pressure. Health personnel strongly advise adopting a lifestyle and a diet to be successful and sustainable in the management of weight.
Though these techniques may be slower, they are also far safer and effective in preventing, and preventing the development of, chronic health problems. Brides ultimately need to remember, experts say, that, “Even if looking good on a wedding day is important, maintaining overall well-being is far more valuable.” Temporary fixes might work, but lasting health happens after the event through better life habits.
