Why did the ASA ban weight loss medication ads?

The ASA banned ads for prescription-only weight loss medications because they exploited people's insecurities about body image and violated regulations against public promotion of such medicines.

Which companies had weight loss ads banned by the ASA?

The ASA banned social media promotions from Chequp, SkinnyJab, and MedExpress for prescription-only weight loss medications.

Are weight loss medications safe for new mothers, according to the ASA?

The ASA found an ad targeting new mothers irresponsible, as weight loss medications carry warnings for breastfeeding individuals.

Home / Health / Watchdog Bans Weight Loss Ads Exploiting Insecurities

Watchdog Bans Weight Loss Ads Exploiting Insecurities

17 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Advertising watchdog banned ads for prescription weight loss medications.
Concerns raised over ads exploiting body image insecurities and irresponsibility.
Regulatory action targets illegal promotion of prescription-only medicines.

Watchdog Bans Weight Loss Ads Exploiting Insecurities

Several advertisements for prescription-only weight loss medications have been banned by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) due to concerns they prey on body image insecurities. Promotions by Chequp, SkinnyJab, and MedExpress violated rules against advertising prescription-only medicines directly to the public.

The ASA highlighted serious social responsibility concerns, noting one MedExpress ad that encouraged new mothers to use medication for post-baby weight loss, exploiting insecurities and perpetuating body image stereotypes. A Chequp ad suggesting stigma associated with being overweight was also deemed irresponsible.

These bans are part of a broader crackdown by the ASA, in collaboration with other regulatory bodies, to combat illegal and irresponsible advertising of weight loss prescription-only medicines and protect the public.