Jodie Jones, 37, experienced severe reactions after using unverified weight loss injections bought online for £20, leaving her hospitalised and warning others about the dangers.

A mother of three from Wales, Jodie Jones, nearly lost her life after using counterfeit weight loss injections purchased through Health. Jones, who lives in Eryrys, took drastic steps to lose weight after struggling with health issues related to her spinal condition. Like many others, she turned to social media, hoping for a quick fix, and came across weight loss jabs being sold for £20 each by a beautician recommended by a friend.

Jones, 37, who had gained weight while taking pregabalin, a nerve pain medication, explained how the medication’s side effects had made it difficult for her to manage her weight. “I had put on quite a bit of weight, which only added to the pain. I was desperate to find a solution,” she said during an interview with Good Morning Britain. Her health condition also prevented her from engaging in physical activities like swimming or walking, so when she saw others having success with weight loss jabs, she decided to give them a try.

She purchased four injections, picking them up from a beauty salon in Liverpool. Initially, Jones was encouraged by the results, noting that after just the first jab, she lost half a stone within a week. The injections made her feel full, and she could barely manage a few bites of food. Her sense of achievement, however, quickly turned into a nightmare after taking the second injection.

“Five or six hours after the second jab, I started feeling extremely sick. I couldn’t stop vomiting. By the middle of the night, I was throwing up blood and felt completely out of control. I couldn’t even take a sip of water,” she recalled. Terrified, her children found her in a delirious state and called for an ambulance. Jones was rushed to the hospital, where doctors struggled to determine what had caused such a severe reaction.

The terrifying experience has left Jones questioning the content of the injections she took. “I have no idea what was in those jabs. The doctors don’t know either, and we’re still waiting for tests to reveal the substance.”

Despite the dangerous consequences of buying weight loss treatments through social media, this practice is not uncommon. Many people desperate to lose weight are lured by the appeal of quick, effortless fixes. Jones is now urging others to avoid falling into the same trap. “I took a gamble on these injections, and it nearly cost me my life. I wouldn’t want anyone else to go through what I’ve been through,” she warned.

The beautician from whom she bought the injections has not been identified publicly, but the case raises significant concerns about the sale of unregulated treatments via online platforms. In recent years, experts have repeatedly cautioned against purchasing medical treatments, especially weight loss products, from unofficial sources. Dr Sarah Jarvis, a GP and medical commentator, warned about the dangers of counterfeit medications. “There’s no way of knowing what’s really in these products. They’re often untested and could contain harmful substances,” she said, adding that even licensed treatments should only be used under medical supervision.

Jones’s story is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in self-medicating or using unverified treatments, especially for something as complex as weight loss. Her case has already sparked wider discussions online, with many people sharing similar experiences of being tempted by weight loss products found on social media.

The widespread availability of unregulated injections, pills, and other treatments online poses a serious threat, particularly when it comes to vulnerable individuals who may already have underlying health conditions. “I thought I was doing something harmless,” Jones said, reflecting on her decision. “But I ended up in hospital. It’s just not worth it.”

Despite her ordeal, Jones remains hopeful that her story will serve as a warning to others. “I was lucky my children were with me, and that they were quick to call for help. Things could have ended so much worse.”

As the issue of fake and dangerous products on social media continues to grow, authorities are urging consumers to report suspicious sellers and to always consult a medical professional before using any weight loss treatment. Meanwhile, Jones is focusing on her recovery and is determined to raise awareness about the dangers of using unlicensed treatments sold online.