The World Health Organization is warning consumers about counterfeit forms of the popular drug Ozempic, often used for weight loss.
Counterfeit versions of the drug were traced to Brazil in October 2023, the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland in October 2023 and the United States in December 2023, the WHO said in a June 20 press release.
The fake drug is a form of semaglutide, drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. Most semaglutide products are injected under the skin weekly, but they can also be made into tablets.
“These medicines have been shown to suppress appetite in addition to lowering blood sugar levels, and are therefore increasingly being prescribed for weight loss in some countries,” the WHO said.
While the WHO has been seeking reports of counterfeit semaglutide medication in multiple regions since 2022, this is the first time the organization has issued an official warning. The announcement comes after the WHO confirmed some of the earlier reports.
According to the WHO, fake medicines can have “harmful effects on human health” and injection devices can also have an “undeclared active ingredient” such as insulin that could pose health risks or complications.
Novo Nordisk, the company that makes Ozempic, said in a statement that it is pursuing legal action against companies that sell counterfeit drugs.
“Manufacturing counterfeit products and introducing them into the legitimate US supply chain is an illegal activity and puts patients at significant risk,” the company wrote.
Counterfeit Ozempik:FDA warns users of Ozempic after seizing thousands of counterfeit weight loss drug units
According to Novo Nordisk, the company and the US Food and Drug Administration issued an alert in December about the seizure of counterfeit Ozempic. The FDA is working with Novo Nordisk to “protect patient safety,” the statement said.
Lack of supply led to increased production of counterfeit medicines, WHO says
The WHO said the organization does not recommend semaglutide for the treatment of diabetes because they are expensive. Due to their high cost, not many people can afford semaglutides.
The goal, WHO said, is to ensure that as many people as possible have access to medication. There are also cheaper diabetes treatments that can help those trying to regulate blood sugar or lower cardiovascular risks, according to the organization.
WHO encourages consumers to buy medications from licensed doctors and avoid unverified sources such as online stores. The organization emphasized the importance of checking packaging and expiration dates and ensuring that they store injectable semaglutide in the refrigerator.
“WHO advises healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities and the public (to) be aware of these counterfeit drug batches,” said Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products, in the press release.
How much does Ozempic cost?
Ozempic sells in the US for over $900 per month. On its website, Novo Nordisk said customers with commercial or private insurance can pay $25 for a 1-month, 2-month or 3-month supply of Ozempic for up to 24 months.
Websites such as GoodRx also claim to help customers save $150 for a month, $300 for a 2-month, and $450 for a 3-month supply of the drug.
Ozempic has an online search tool that customers can use to see how much the drug will cost through their insurance.
Famous and Ozempic
While Novo Nordisk said the company does not work with celebrities to endorse its products, several celebrities have spoken out to say they have used it with success.
Comedian and actor Tracy Morgan spoke about it in March.
“Ozempic did very well for me and I was happy to use it,” he said. “I take Ozempic every Thursday,” he said. “Cuts my appetite in half.”
On the other hand, Sharon Osbourne said in November that Ozempic has prevented her from gaining weight.
“I’m very thin and I can’t gain weight,” she told the Daily Mail. “I want to because I feel I’m too thin. I’m under 100 (£) and I don’t want to be. Be careful what you wish for.”
What to do if you suspect counterfeit Ozempic
To report counterfeit medicines, contact WHO at [email protected].
Novo Nordisk said in a statement that patients who suspect their medication is fake can visit www.semaglutide.com to see real product photos and descriptions.
Customers can also call Novo Nordisk customer care at 1-800-727-6500 or submit a report at www.tinyurl.com/ReportMeds.
Contributed by: Naledi Ushe, USA TODAY; Karen Weintraub, USA TODAY
Saleen Martin is a reporter on the USA TODAY NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – 757. Follow her on Twitter at@SaleenMartin or email her at[email protected].
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