Warning issued by WHO: Fake Ozempic drugs sold online
6:59 AM EDT, June 25, 2024
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), counterfeit versions of a drug used to treat diabetes and obesity are being offered on the internet. These medications could be harmful to health. The original drug is available by prescription, but due to its growing popularity, it is often counterfeited.
The drug's brand name is Ozempic. It contains semaglutide, which is used to treat type 2 diabetes. However, the drug has also proven effective for weight loss.
Even though the drug is available only by prescription, it is increasingly being counterfeited. According to WHO, Ozempic counterfeits have already been detected in European countries such as the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, as well as in the USA and Brazil.
WHO warns
WHO advises healthcare workers, regulatory authorities, and patients to be aware of counterfeit drug batches, emphasized Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO's deputy director-general.
The World Health Organization recommends refraining from using suspicious medications and avoiding purchasing drugs from unknown or unverified sources, such as the Internet.
The organization notes that counterfeit drugs can hurt health. Counterfeit products may contain insufficient amounts of the active substance or include incorrect ingredients like insulin.
Semaglutide is prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes. The substance aims to lower blood sugar levels and additionally reduces the risk of cardiovascular events.
Products containing this substance also suppress appetite, which is why they are prescribed for weight reduction in some countries. Due to their high cost, preparations based on semaglutide are not included in the range of drugs recommended by WHO for the treatment of diabetes.
