The FDA has raised an alert regarding the distribution of counterfeit Ozempic injections, a diabetes medication that is increasingly being used for weight loss. This drug, often referred to as the ‘skinny jab’, contains semaglutide, which assists individuals with type 2 diabetes in regulating blood sugar levels. It also acts on the brain to reduce appetite, leading to weight reduction.
Due to its popularity as a weight loss aid, albeit unofficially, there has been a shortage of Ozempic for diabetic patients, prompting the emergence of fake versions in the market.
The FDA reported that counterfeit Ozempic has been found outside the authorized supply chain of Novo Nordisk. In April, some fake medications were confiscated, and the FDA has advised patients and pharmacists to verify products for specific serial numbers that may signal counterfeiting.
The FDA’s statement noted, “The FDA is aware of six adverse event reports associated with this lot, however none of them appear to be associated with the counterfeit product. All six adverse events were reported by Novo Nordisk.”
In a similar instance last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a caution against fake injection medicines following the confiscation of counterfeit batches in nations such as the UK and Brazil.
Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO assistant director general for essential medicines and health products, commented, “[We advise] healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities and the public be aware of these falsified batches of medicines” (via BBC News).
WHO has indicated that some of the counterfeit injections might not contain semaglutide and could instead be different drugs like insulin, leading to ‘unpredictable’ health effects.
The WHO stressed, “These falsified products could have harmful effects to people’s health.”
In response to the ongoing issue of counterfeit Ozempic, Novo Nordisk communicated to UNILAD their commitment to addressing the problem seriously.
A spokesperson for the company stated, “At Novo Nordisk, patient safety is our top priority, and we take the growing number of incidents involving counterfeit versions of Ozempic® (semaglutide injection) very seriously. We do all we can to alert patients, healthcare professionals, wholesalers, and retail pharmacies about counterfeits incidents when they arise.”
They further advised, “We urge patients to only obtain appropriate medicine on prescription through legitimate sources and after consultation with a healthcare professional. If a patient suspects they have administered a counterfeit product, they should seek medical advice straight away.”