Ukrainian teenagers are being poisoned en masse with drugs from TikTok

A new, dangerous trend has emerged among Ukrainian teenagers — the use of a weight loss drug called “Molecula.” This drug is widely advertised on TikTok, promising quick weight loss without diets or exercise. However, behind the attractive promises lies a serious health threat.

The drug “Molecula” claims that you can lose up to 10 kilograms per month. Videos of girls demonstrating their results are actively circulating on social networks. But few people remember that the main active ingredient is sibutramine — a psychotropic compound that suppresses appetite and affects the nervous system. The use of this drug is prohibited in most countries, including Ukraine, without a doctor’s prescription.

Doctors warn that sibutramine can cause tachycardia, insomnia, panic attacks, and also negatively affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. It is even more dangerous for teenagers, since their bodies are still developing.

The story of 19-year-old Victoria from Kyiv became a vivid example of the dangers of using this drug. She decided to try “Molecula” after watching too many TikTok videos.

“I really lost weight — 5.5 kilograms disappeared in a month. But from the first day I felt dry in my mouth, I couldn’t even drink water. Then I started having insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and trembling in my hands. TikTok wrote that this was normal — they say, ‘energy is released.’ But I felt so bad that I went to the doctor,” the girl recalls.

According to doctors, cases like Victoria’s are becoming increasingly common. “Molecula” can even be found on marketplaces and Telegram channels, where it is considered a “food supplement.”

Endocrinologist Oksana Chernenko notes that this drug can cause a heart attack or hypertensive crisis.

“Sibutramine leads to changes in hormonal balance and increases insulin secretion, which is dangerous for people with diabetes. In addition, this drug does not treat obesity – it only blocks the feeling of hunger. When a person stops taking it, the extra pounds return,” the doctor explains.

Despite the bans, videos continue to appear on social networks that advertise “Molecula” as a “secret to losing weight for female students.” Under such videos are hundreds of comments from girls asking where to buy the drug and what dose to take.

Experts urge parents to monitor their children’s viewing more closely. In pursuit of the perfect body, teenagers often put their health at risk.

“No drug is worth a damaged heart or a damaged nervous system. If a child wants to lose weight, they should consult a doctor, not bloggers,” Chernenko summarizes.