Pharmacists are warning of a rise in fake weight-loss injections due to a shortage of the diabetes drug Ozempic.
Weight-loss medications are in high demand in countries like the UK facing obesity issues.
The National Pharmacy Association advises buyers to consult with pharmacists or GPs and only purchase from regulated providers.
Shortages of Ozempic are expected to continue, leading to an increase in illicit online sales.
The Department of Health cautions against buying medications from unregulated sources and has seized counterfeit Ozempic injections.
Amid a surge in the popularity of weight-loss medications, pharmacists are warning of an increase in fake weight-loss injections due to a shortage of the drug Ozempic. The National Pharmacy Association is expressing concerns about counterfeit drugs circulating in the market and is urging individuals to consult with their pharmacist or GP before purchasing weight-loss medications online. The scarcity of Ozempic, a type 2 diabetes drug with weight-loss properties, has led to a global shortage, making it difficult for diabetics to regulate their blood sugar levels.
Experts are concerned that the shortage of Ozempic may lead to an uptick in the illicit sale of medications online, potentially putting individuals at risk. As an alternative to Ozempic, the drug Wegovy has been developed, but supply difficulties persist. The Department of Health and Social Care advises against obtaining regulated medications from unauthorized online sellers to ensure patient safety. The public is encouraged to seek guidance from their local pharmacist before purchasing medications online, especially as reports of fake Ozempic injections circulating in the UK have been observed.
