The World Health Organization is warning consumers about counterfeit versions of Ozempic, a popular weight-loss drug.
Counterfeit drugs Tracked In a news release on June 20, WHO announced that it plans to vaccinate Brazil in October 2023, the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland in October 2023, and the United States in December 2023.
The placebo drug is a type of semaglutide, which is used to treat type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. Most semaglutide products are injected subcutaneously every week, but it is also sometimes made as a tablet.
“These drugs have been shown to not only lower blood sugar levels but also suppress appetite and therefore are increasingly being prescribed for weight loss in some countries,” WHO said.
The WHO has been investigating reports of counterfeit semaglutide medicines in several regions since 2022, but this is the first time the organization has issued an official warning. The notice came after the WHO confirmed some of the earlier reports.
According to the WHO, counterfeit medicines can “have harmful effects on people’s health” and syringes may contain “undeclared active ingredients” such as insulin that can pose health risks and complications.
Novo Nordisk, which makes Ozempic, said in a statement that it was taking legal action against companies selling counterfeit medicines.
“Manufacturing counterfeit products and incorporating them into the legitimate U.S. supply chain is illegal and puts patients at substantial risk,” the company wrote.
Counterfeit Ozempic:FDA warns Ozempic users after seizing thousands of counterfeit weight-loss pills
according to Novo NordiskThe company and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued warnings in December about the seizure of counterfeit Ozempic. In a statement, the FDA said it was working with Novo Nordisk to “protect patient safety.”
WHO says supply shortages have led to increased production of counterfeit medicines
The WHO said it does not recommend semaglutide for treating diabetes because of its high cost, which not many people can afford.
The WHO says its goal is to make medicines accessible to as many people as possible, and that there are cheaper diabetes medications available to help people control their blood sugar levels and lower their risk of cardiovascular disease.
The WHO encourages consumers to buy medicines from licensed physicians and avoid unverified sources such as online stores. The organization stressed the importance of checking the packaging and expiry date, and storing injectable semaglutide in the refrigerator.
“WHO advises health workers, regulators and the public to be aware of these counterfeit medicines,” Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO’s assistant director-general for Access to Medicines and Health Products, said in a news release.
How much does Ozempic cost?
Ozempic sells for more than $900 a month in the United States. The company’s website states: Novo Nordisk The company said customers with commercial or personal insurance can pay $25 to buy a one-, two- or three-month supply of Ozempic for up to 24 months.
Websites like: Good Rx It also claims that customers can save $150 if they buy a one-month supply of medication, $300 if they buy a two-month supply, and $450 if they buy a three-month supply.
Ozempic is Online Search Tools Customers can use it to find out how much their medications will cost through their insurance.
Celebrities and Ozempic
Novo Nordisk says it does not work with celebrities to promote its products, but some celebrities have publicly stated that they have used the company’s products effectively.
Comedian and actor Tracy Morgan spoke about it in March.
“Ozempic has been very effective for me and I’m glad I took it,” he said. “I take Ozempic every Thursday,” he said. “It cuts my appetite in half.”
Meanwhile, Sharon Osbourne said in November that Ozempic had helped her stave off weight gain.
“I’m too skinny and I can’t put on weight,” she said. Daily Mail“I want to because I think I’m too skinny. I weigh under 100 pounds and I don’t want that to happen. You better be careful what you wish for.”
What to do if you suspect a counterfeit Ozempic
To report counterfeit medicines, contact WHO. email address:.
Novo Nordisk said in a statement that patients who suspect their medicine is counterfeit should Semaglutide Check the actual product photos and description.
You may contact Novo Nordisk Customer Care at 1-800-727-6500 or translation:.
Contributors: Naledi Uche, USA TODAY and Karen Weintraub, USA TODAY
Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA Today’s NOW team. She’s from 757 Norfolk, Virginia. Follow her on Twitter:Saleen Martin or by emailemail address.
