WHO Raises Alarm Over Fake Ozempic Drugs: Health Risks and Safety Alerts

WHO Issues Global Alert on Counterfeit Ozempic Drugs

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the alarm over the dangerous spread of counterfeit versions of the diabetes drug Ozempic, which has also gained popularity for weight loss. This global warning highlights serious health risks and underscores the critical need for vigilance among consumers, healthcare providers, and regulatory authorities.

Reports of falsified Ozempic have surged since 2022, prompting the WHO's alert. The falsified drugs have been detected in multiple countries, including the UK, US, and Brazil. Seizures of these counterfeit drugs demonstrate the sophisticated nature of the operations producing them. In one instance, the UK's drugs regulator seized a batch of fake Ozempic pens that appeared to have nearly authentic packaging.

Health Risks Associated with Counterfeit Ozempic

The main concern with these counterfeit drugs lies in their composition. They may not contain the active ingredient, semaglutide, which is crucial for managing diabetes and aiding in weight loss. Worse, these fakes could include harmful substances that pose significant health risks. WHO's assistant director-general for essential medicines and health products, Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, emphasized the importance of awareness among healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities, and the general public.

Consumers are urged to obtain Ozempic only from reputable sources, typically through a doctor's prescription. Purchasing these drugs online or via social media platforms greatly increases the risk of obtaining counterfeit products. The warning is particularly critical for patients relying on Ozempic to manage their diabetes, as ineffective or harmful substances can lead to severe complications.

Statements from Health Authorities

Dr. Alison Cave, the chief safety officer of the UK's drugs regulator, has strongly advised against acquiring semaglutide from illegal online suppliers. She warns that these purchases could result in harmful health effects, potentially dangerous to the user's health. The WHO's alert also focuses on a higher strength version of Ozempic, marketed under the name Wegovy for weight loss. This medication is available at specialized weight-loss clinics on the NHS in the UK.

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