Brazilian football is grappling with the secretive use of “slimming pens” by players seeking rapid weight loss and fitness advantages, a practice drawing scrutiny due to potential health risks and a widespread silence from clubs.
A recent report by Globo Esporte highlights how these medications, originally developed for diabetes and later approved for obesity treatment, are increasingly being adopted by footballers who need to get into shape quickly.
One player, identified by the fictitious name “Joãozinho,” reportedly lost 7 kilograms (from 91kg to 84kg) in just two weeks after receiving an unexpected contract offer while unemployed.
However, Joãozinho also described significant adverse effects while using the injections. “I couldn’t train with the same intensity as before. I felt a lot of weakness, nausea, and shortness of breath at times,” he stated. “Even while losing weight, I felt I wasn’t progressing, that I was always running less. I felt blocked. From the moment I stopped the injections, I started to improve.”
The use of these “slimming pens” has become a taboo subject across Brazil’s top football divisions, including the first, second, and third tiers, according to Globo Esporte. Clubs are reportedly going to great lengths to avoid discussing the issue.
An anonymous fitness coach from a Série B club confirmed the trend, noting the pens assist players needing to achieve peak physical condition rapidly or maintain fitness during injuries. This is particularly common among athletes without long-term contracts who play across Brazil and may struggle with consistent self-care.
In Joãozinho’s case, the decision to use the medication was his own, not initiated by his club.
Globo Esporte’s investigation also found evidence that players in the Brasileirão, the country’s premier league, have used these pens, primarily for weight control. Despite these findings, all clubs contacted for the report declined to comment on the matter.