Gemma Collins Weight-Loss Drug Advert Banned By UK Watchdog
Reality star Gemma Collins has had one of her Instagram posts pulled after the UK's advertising watchdog ruled that it broke the rules on promoting prescription-only weight-loss drugs. In the video, Collins credited Yazen’s app and medication for helping her drop two dress sizes, saying, "It’s really quick and easy to get started with Yazen, it has absolutely changed my life… I finally found something that actually I lose weight on.” Although she added, "I’m not telling anyone to go on this medication, but it is prescribed on the NHS," the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) said this still crossed the line.
The ASA banned a total of nine ads in a wider crackdown, including posts from companies like CheqUp, Phlo Clinic, and Juniper UK. Many of the ads featured phrases like “weight loss pen” or showed injection pens, which is a clear breach of rules that prevent promoting prescription-only medication to the public. Some ads even boasted about avoiding GP visits altogether, which regulators say sends the wrong message.
The ASA said it had already warned influencers and brands last December to “stick to the rules or face sanctions.” Following complaints, Collins and Yazen agreed to remove references to medication and promised to follow the code going forward. The ASA hopes these rulings will send a strong message that prescription meds are not to be marketed like over-the-counter products, especially on social media.
