The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has raised concerns about a growing number of counterfeit weight loss injections, particularly Ozempic, being sold online as shortages of the drug are expected to persist into next year.
The NPA warned of a potential “explosion in the unlicensed sale of medication online,” highlighting the dangers of purchasing Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide) without proper medical oversight. Ozempic, a medication available on the NHS for type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy, prescribed for weight loss under strict criteria, have gained popularity, partly due to social media endorsements showcasing dramatic weight loss results.
Pharmacists across the UK report a significant shortage of Ozempic, driven by high demand and the off-label prescription of the drug for weight loss. This shortage has led to difficulties for diabetic patients who rely on the medication, further exacerbating the issue by increasing the presence of counterfeit products in the market.
Nick Kaye, chairman of the NPA, expressed serious concerns about the situation. “Stocks of Ozempic are severely depleted in community pharmacies across the UK, and it is crucial that these supplies are prioritized for patients with the most critical clinical needs,” he stated. “Given the precarious state of supply, there’s a heightened risk of individuals seeking out these drugs from unreliable online vendors.”
The NPA advises the public to consult with pharmacists or GPs rather than purchasing medications from unregistered and unregulated online sources. Kaye emphasized the importance of ensuring that online sellers are accredited by regulatory bodies such as the General Pharmaceutical Council or the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland.
In January, the Department of Health and Social Care advised healthcare providers against off-label prescriptions of these drugs for weight loss, stating that the existing stock should be reserved for type 2 diabetes patients. They also noted that the supply situation is unlikely to normalize until the end of 2024 at the earliest.
The rise of counterfeit products has led to significant health concerns. The World Health Organization issued a medical product alert in June regarding fake semaglutide stocks found in Brazil, the UK, and the US. Reports have surfaced of individuals experiencing severe side effects, including nausea, vomiting, dehydration, pancreatitis, and gallstones, as a result of using these counterfeit drugs.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson reiterated the dangers of purchasing regulated medicines from unauthorized sources, emphasizing that such actions could pose serious health risks. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency continues to monitor and act against unlawful trading in medicines, including prosecuting those endangering public health.
As part of broader efforts, the government is focusing on preventive measures to address the obesity crisis, aiming to reduce the strain on the NHS and promote longer, healthier lives.
