The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a global alert regarding counterfeit versions of Ozempic, a drug increasingly popular for weight loss despite its primary use for treating type 2 diabetes.
Known colloquially as a “skinny jab,” Ozempic contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which helps control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, it reduces the urge to eat by signaling to the brain that one is full, aiding in weight loss.
The WHO warned that these counterfeit versions could pose serious health risks and advised obtaining the drug only from reputable sources, such as doctors, rather than online or through social media.
The rising popularity of Ozempic for weight loss among non-diabetics has led to shortages for those with type 2 diabetes and spurred a market for fake drugs.
The WHO has been monitoring the increasing reports of counterfeit Ozempic worldwide since 2022.
Authorities in the UK, US, and Brazil have already seized fake batches of the drug.
Risk to health
“[We advise] healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities and the public be aware of these falsified batches of medicines,” said Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO assistant director general for essential medicines and health products.
The WHO warned some fake injections may not contain semaglutide at all or others may contain other medications, such as insulin, leading to “unpredictable” effects.
“These falsified products could have harmful effects to people’s health,” the WHO said.
Why’s everyone talking about Ozempic and Wegovy?
The UK’s drugs regulator seized a batch of counterfeit Ozempic in October last year.
These fake drugs entered the country through legitimate suppliers in Austria and Germany and appeared to have authentic packaging.
Dr Alison Cave, the organisation’s chief safety officer, said: “Buying semaglutide from illegally trading online suppliers significantly increases the risk of getting a product which is either falsified or not licensed for use in the UK.”
She said injecting such products “may put your health at risk”.
A higher strength version of Ozempic has been developed specifically for weight-loss and is marketed as Wegovy.
This is being offered at specialist weight-loss clinics on the NHS in the UK.