Full Breakdown
Concerns Over Diet Pill Use in South Korea: A Study's Findings
3/17/2026, 6:24:15 PM
Overview of Diet Pill Usage in South Korea
A recent study conducted by the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs has revealed alarming trends regarding the use of diet pills in South Korea. Released on March 16, the report indicates that nearly 60% of individuals taking oral appetite suppressants are not classified as obese. The survey included 257 South Koreans aged 19 to 64 who had used these medications between 2022 and 2025.
Key Findings on User Demographics and Behaviors
The study found that 59.5% of respondents used diet pills primarily for weight loss without a medical diagnosis of obesity. In contrast, 34.6% reported using them after being diagnosed as obese, while 8.9% took them based on recommendations from acquaintances. Additionally, 8.6% used the pills due to related health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, and 3.9% did so out of curiosity.
The duration of use varied significantly among participants: 45.9% had taken the pills for three months or less, 37% for more than three months but less than a year, and 17.7% for over a year. This raises concerns about adherence to medical guidelines, which recommend that appetite suppressants be prescribed only to individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher and typically for short-term use.
Health Risks and Side Effects
The report highlights significant health risks associated with prolonged diet pill use. A staggering 73.5% of users reported experiencing side effects, with insomnia (66.7%) and depression (25.4%) being among the most common. Other reported side effects included dry mouth (72%), palpitations (68.8%), personality changes (23.8%), and anxiety (22.8%). Notably, 1.6% of respondents indicated they had experienced suicidal impulses.
The phenomenon of the "yo-yo effect," where users regain weight after discontinuing the pills, was reported by 53.4% of participants. Despite experiencing adverse effects, 54% of users resumed taking the medication after a break, and 22.8% continued usage despite side effects.
Criticism and Calls for Action
The report emphasizes the need for increased awareness regarding the misuse of pharmaceuticals, particularly those classified as medical narcotics. It calls for the establishment of intervention mechanisms for high-risk users and the provision of counseling services for those struggling with pharmaceutical abuse and addiction.
Official Statements
Researchers have pointed out that the combination of social pressure to maintain a slim appearance, the influence of mass media, and the competitive healthcare market has contributed to the misuse of diet pills. They stress the importance of adhering to clinical guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with these medications.
Conclusion
The findings from the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs underscore a critical public health issue in South Korea, where the misuse of diet pills is prevalent among individuals who are not medically obese. The study calls for urgent attention to the psychological and physical consequences of such practices, advocating for better education and support for users.
