Israeli Health Ministry Warns Against TikTok Weight Loss Trend Containing Dangerous Drug

The Israeli Ministry of Health has issued a warning against the purchase and use of a weight loss product known as "Magic Honey" or "Honey for Weight Loss," which has become popular on TikTok. Laboratory tests revealed that the product contains sibutramine, a pharmaceutical substance banned in Israel and many other countries due to serious health risks. Sibutramine is not registered for sale in Israel, and its unregulated consumption can lead to dangerous side effects such as increased blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, insomnia, heart attacks, strokes, and psychiatric disorders.

The product is marketed as a pink gel concentrate promising rapid weight loss without effort, promoted by numerous social media influencers. The Ministry of Health cautions that using such products without medical supervision exposes users to unknown dosages and severe health consequences. Past incidents in Israel have included hospitalizations linked to counterfeit products containing sibutramine.

The Ministry urges the public to buy medications, dietary supplements, and health products only from authorized sources like pharmacies and reputable chains, and to avoid purchases through social media, messaging groups, or unverified websites. Individuals seeking to lose weight are advised to consult licensed dietitians, engage in physical activity, and maintain a healthy diet. Suspected cases of counterfeit drug sales or adverse effects can be reported to the Health Ministry’s hotline at 5400.