Counterfeit Diabetes and Weight Loss Medications Pose Severe Health Risks
The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global alert on June 20, warning against counterfeit versions of Ozempic, a type 2 diabetes medication increasingly used for weight loss. The UN health agency cited an increased demand for these medications alongside reports of falsifications that could pose significant health risks.
Fake batches discovered
In its alert, WHO identified three falsified batches of Ozempic found in Brazil, Northern Ireland, and the United States between October 2023 and December 2023. The organization emphasized the importance of purchasing medications only from reliable sources, such as licensed medical professionals, rather than online or through social media.
“WHO advises healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities, and the public to be aware of these falsified batches of medicines,” stated Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO assistant director-general for essential medicines and health products. “We call on stakeholders to stop any usage of suspicious medicines and report to relevant authorities.”
Risks of fake Ozempic
The counterfeit drugs purport to contain semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic, which helps control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes patients and aids weight loss by suppressing appetite. WHO warned that these fake medications might lack essential components, potentially leading to unmanaged blood glucose levels or ineffective weight control.
Pharmaceutical companies respond
American pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly expressed “deep concern” over the sale of fake or compounded versions of tirzepatide, an active ingredient in its Mounjaro and other GLP-1 drugs. On Thursday, Eli Lilly announced it had sued six entities, including medical spas and wellness centers, for selling products claiming to contain tirzepatide.
Similarly, Novo Nordisk has taken legal action against several entities to halt the sale of products falsely claiming to contain semaglutide.