Jameela Jamil has criticized Serena Williams after the tennis legend revealed she used GLP-1 medication to lose weight.
Williams, 42, recently told People magazine that she lost more than 31 pounds while using the drug, describing it as an option she carefully researched before beginning treatment.
“I did a lot of research on it,” Williams explained. “I asked what the benefits and drawbacks were, and the doctors were super supportive. It was easy to get the medication, and I was excited about my results.”
Her comments sparked immediate debate online, with actor and activist Jameela Jamil responding on Instagram. Jamil expressed concern that celebrities have access to medical resources not available to most people. “The thing I feel most uncomfortable about here is that celebrities have access to doctors most others don’t have access to,” she wrote. “These ‘miracle’ weight loss drugs come at a price.”
She went on to warn about possible risks associated with GLP-1 medications, citing reported side effects such as pancreatitis, gastrointestinal paralysis, osteoporosis, muscle loss, thyroid issues, and even depression. Jamil added that if patients stop taking the medication, rapid weight regain is common and can be harder to manage.
“Without constant monitoring—blood tests, scans, nutritionists, and a proper weight training plan—most people cannot maintain long-term health while using these drugs,” Jamil argued. “Celebrities can afford these resources, but the average person cannot.”
Medical experts, including the Cleveland Clinic, note that while GLP-1 drugs are effective for many, they should only be used under professional supervision due to possible risks.
The debate highlights growing scrutiny over celebrities endorsing or normalizing prescription weight-loss treatments with potentially serious side effects.
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