- The company NextMed faces a $150,000 fine for fake weight loss claims and hidden costs.
- The FTC warns that promises like fast weight loss or “magic” solutions are signs of scams.
- Speak to a healthcare provider before starting a new weight loss treatment.
Weight loss journeys often come with roadblocks and challenges, leading many to seek a helping hand. Unfortunately, dishonest advertisers prey on this vulnerability, flooding the market with “miracle” cures, magic pills and revolutionary programs that promise results but deliver only frustration and empty wallets.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently highlighted a significant ruling against NextMed, a telehealth company accused of exploiting consumers seeking weight-loss solutions. The company faced allegations of running fraudulent ads, using fake reviews and trapping customers with hidden costs. While NextMed is the latest example, they are certainly not the only ones using these tactics. Taking a close look at this case can help you spot weight-loss scams before handing over your credit card.
What Happened with NextMed?
NextMed was a telehealth company offering weight-loss solutions and related services. Recently, the FTC took decisive action against the company and its principals, issuing a final order to halt deceptive advertising and billing practices. NextMed had tapped into the growing demand for prescription GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic. While the interest in these medications was genuine, NextMed’s business practices were allegedly built on false promises.
According to the FTC’s complaint, NextMed attracted customers with bold, unsubstantiated claims—such as guaranteeing an average weight loss of 53 pounds or 23% of body weight—without credible evidence to support these numbers. To add to the deception, they used fake testimonials and “before-and-after” photos of individuals who had never even used their program. The company also failed to disclose required fees and membership obligations upfront.
As a result, NextMed is now required to pay a $150,000 fine, with the funds likely going toward reimbursing misled customers.
How to Spot False Promises in Weight Loss Ads
The NextMed case is a stark reminder that if something sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is.
To protect yourself, watch out for these classic false promises that the FTC warns against:
- “Lose weight without dieting or exercising.” This is the most common lie in the industry. The truth is that there is no magic way to lose weight without a sensible diet and regular physical activity.
- “You don’t have to watch what you eat to lose weight.” Any product claiming you can eat as much as you want and still slim down is misleading you. Your calorie and nutrient intake still count.
- “Lose 30 pounds in 30 days.” Products promising lightning-fast weight loss are almost always scams. Safe, sustainable weight loss takes time. Rapid loss can actually be dangerous to your health.
- “This product works for everyone.” Our bodies are unique. No single product works for every human being. Anyone guaranteeing 100% success across the board is lying.
- “Lose weight with this patch or cream.” Biology doesn’t work this way. Nothing you wear or rub on your skin will melt fat away.
- “Weight loss is permanent.” Permanent results require permanent lifestyle changes. Don’t trust a pill or program that promises “once-and-for-all” results without requiring you to change your habits.
Even U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved aids, such as fat-absorption blockers or appetite suppressants, are not magic wands. They are tools meant to be used alongside a low-calorie diet and exercise, not as a replacement for them.
Our Expert Take
The settlement against NextMed is a victory for consumer protection, but it won’t be the last case of its kind. The weight loss industry is incredibly profitable, and as long as people are desperate for quick results, there will be companies willing to exploit that desperation.
Protecting yourself requires a healthy dose of skepticism. Remember that lasting and sustainable weight loss requires effort, consistency and lifestyle changes, oftentimes under the guidance of a healthcare provider or other professional to ensure you are doing it safely. There are no shortcuts, no magic creams and no secret pills that “bust belly fat” overnight. By staying informed about these deceptive tactics shared by the FTC, you can avoid the frustration of false promises and focus on health decisions that actually work. Be careful, do your research and keep your wallet closed until you’re sure you are getting the truth.
