In the digital age, social media influencers have become prominent figures in the health and wellness industry, often promoting fitness programs and dietary plans to their vast audiences. However, a concerning trend has emerged where some influencers, lacking proper qualifications, sell fitness and macro courses while using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro without disclosure. This practice raises ethical questions about transparency and consumer trust.

Understanding GLP-1 Medications and Their Role in Weight Loss

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications are primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes but have gained popularity for their weight loss benefits. These drugs work by enhancing insulin secretion and suppressing appetite, leading to significant weight reduction in some individuals. While effective, their use should be medically supervised, and their impact on weight loss is substantial enough that it should be disclosed when promoting weight-related programs.

The Janelle Rohner Controversy

Janelle Rohner, a wellness influencer with over 5 million followers on TikTok, became embroiled in controversy after revealing in April 2025 that she had been using a GLP-1 medication as part of her weight loss journey. Prior to this admission, Rohner had been selling a $200 “Macros 101” course, promoting macro tracking and exercise as the keys to her fitness success.

The backlash was swift. Followers felt misled, arguing that Rohner’s undisclosed use of weight loss medication undermined the credibility of her program. Critics pointed out that while using GLP-1 medications is not inherently wrong, failing to disclose their use while profiting from a weight loss course based on diet and exercise is deceptive.

In response to the criticism, Rohner issued an apology and offered refunds to anyone who had purchased her course in the past 11 months. She emphasized that the medication was a tool to aid her journey and that she continued to believe in the principles taught in her program. Despite this, many followers remained skeptical, questioning the authenticity of her brand and the ethics of her business practices.

Ethical Implications and the Need for Transparency

The Rohner case highlights a broader issue in the influencer-driven fitness industry: the lack of transparency and qualifications among those selling health-related programs. When influencers promote fitness and dietary plans without proper credentials or full disclosure of their methods, they risk misleading consumers and potentially causing harm.

Ethically, influencers have a responsibility to be transparent about the tools and methods they use, especially when these significantly impact the outcomes they promote. This includes disclosing the use of medications like GLP-1s when they contribute to weight loss results that are being marketed as achievable through diet and exercise alone.

Conclusion

The rise of social media influencers in the health and wellness space has democratized access to fitness information but also introduced challenges related to credibility and ethics. The controversy surrounding Janelle Rohner serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of transparency and the potential consequences of misleading consumers. As the industry continues to evolve, both influencers and consumers must prioritize honesty and informed decision-making to foster trust and integrity in health and wellness promotion.