WHO issued a medical product alert about Ozempic!
Commonly sold under the brand name Ozempic, a fake batch of Semaglutide was detected in a regulated supply chain in Brazil, the United Kingdom, and the USA last year.
Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products said,
WHO advises healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities and the public be aware of these falsified batches of medicines,
We call on stakeholders to stop any usage of suspicious medicines and report to relevant authorities.
According to the WHO, since 2022, there’s been an increase in reports of counterfeit semaglutide products globally. However, this is the first instance where the organization has issued a notice regarding the problem.
The drug has gained popularity for weight loss treatment and type 2 diabetes. Semaglitide mimics GLP-1, which is a natural hormone that regulates insulin, slows down digestion, and decreases appetite.
The increase in demand leading to fake production does not come as a surprise. And while the fake products are cheaper, they can be dangerous.
WHO said,
[I]f the products don’t have the necessary raw components, falsified medicines can lead to health complications resulting from unmanaged blood glucose levels or weight,
In other cases, another undeclared active ingredient may be contained in the injection device, e.g. insulin, leading to an unpredictable range of health risks or complications.
Last year, fake Ozempic versions led to hypoglycemia, coma, and seizures in some people. Therefore, WHO advises sourcing it through prescription via licensed physicians only.
