The Alarming Rise of 'Molecule': A Dangerous Weight-Loss Pill Captivating Young Russians

Sun Nov 02 2025 08:53:50 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Molecule, an unlicensed weight-loss pill touted on TikTok, is dangerously affecting the health of young Russians. Reports of serious side effects and overdoses raise alarms as the drug remains illegally accessible online.

Molecule, a cheap and dangerous weight-loss pill gaining popularity on Russian TikTok, has led to severe side effects for users, particularly young people. Despite being banned in many countries, including the US and UK, this unlicensed medication contains sibutramine, linked to serious health risks. Users report complications such as anxiety, hallucinations, and severe health crises. Authorities face challenges curbing its illegal sale as social media platforms inadvertently facilitate the trend.

The Alarming Rise of 'Molecule': A Dangerous Weight-Loss Pill Captivating Young Russians

Molecule, a pill promising rapid weight loss, has gone viral on Russian TikTok, luring young people with claims such as Take Molecule and forget food exists. Videos showcasing fridges stocked with blue boxes branded as Molecule have flooded social media, enticing teenagers to share their weight-loss journeys.

However, beneath the allure of quick results lies a dangerous reality. The pill has resulted in significant side effects for many users, with 22-year-old Maria from St. Petersburg recounting her experience after taking the pill. After just two weeks, she began suffering from severe dry mouth, loss of appetite, and heightened anxiety, leading to an alarming deterioration in her mental health.

Other users have reported dilated pupils and insomnia, with at least three schoolchildren admitted to hospitals due to the pill's adverse effects. Reports include cases of overdose and alarming psychological crises, as seen in students who used Molecule to combat weight-related bullying.

Substance banned in UK, EU and US

The pills are often marketed as containing natural ingredients like dandelion root; however, investigations revealed that Molecule contains sibutramine, a substance banned in many countries due to its dangers, including an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

While sibutramine is still legally prescribed in Russia for obesity treatment in adults, the unregulated sales of Molecule pills online have surged, leading to serious legal and health implications. These pills, costing between £6 and £7 for a 20-day supply, present a starkly cheaper alternative to legitimate weight-loss medications.

Despite existing regulations, sellers have found loopholes to continue marketing these pills online, often disguised as various products. Notably, law enforcement struggles to track these sales as they evade straightforward regulations.

Healthcare professionals caution that self-administration of Molecule is unsafe, as the dosage and purity of active ingredients remain uncertain. Young users, particularly those at risk of eating disorders, face amplified dangers. Health expert Dr. Ksenia Solovieva urges parents and caregivers to remain vigilant about the potential risks associated with this unlicensed drug.

Maria, now determined to warn others, actively shares her story in weight-loss forums to discourage young users. Despite these cautionary tales, the appeal of Molecule continues to grow within teen communities on social media, revealing a pressing need for awareness and intervention.