Gemma Collins' Weight-Loss Advert Sparks Controversy: A Ban on Prescription Drug Promotion

In a bold move to regulate health-related advertising, Gemma Collins, a prominent TV personality, faced scrutiny when her Instagram post promoting a weight-loss drug and app was banned. The post, where Collins declared, “I’m starting this year two sizes down, thanks to Yazen’s weight loss app and medication,” violated laws regarding the advertisement of prescription-only medications. This decision stems from a crackdown by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), which alongside Collins, banned a total of nine advertisements for similar breaches.

Yazen, a Swedish digital healthcare brand, offers a unique service combining prescription medication with lifestyle coaching, supervised by a doctor. In her video advertisement posted on January 6, Collins stated she was not advising others to take the medication, yet the ASA ruled that her content could mislead consumers into seeking out the prescription drugs she referenced. Their investigation involved insight from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, which raised alarms over potential consumer misinterpretation.

The ASA’s ruling highlighted the absolute necessity for responsible advertising in the healthcare sector, especially concerning pharmaceuticals. Among the other advertisements banned were those from CheqUp Health, for HealthExpress.co.uk, and others, all promoting products considered unsafe for direct public advertisement.

The ASA’s decisive action indicates a commitment to protecting public health by ensuring that advertisements do not inadvertently encourage the misuse of prescription drugs. Collins acknowledged the oversight and committed to adhering to advertising guidance in the future. With these stringent measures in place, the advertising landscape for health-related products is set to become more transparent and trustworthy.