Fake Ozempic and Wegovy pose a danger; here’s how to protect yourself.

Fake Ozempic and Wegovy pose a danger; here's how to protect yourself.

The Alarming Rise of Fake Semaglutide: Counterfeit Drugs Flood the Market

Aug. 22, 2023 – In horse racing, a “false favorite” is a horse whose odds don’t reflect its abilities, and who’s unlikely to deliver. The same is true of fake or counterfeit versions of the drug semaglutide, sold as Wegovy for weight loss and as Ozempic for type 2 diabetes, which are flooding North American and global marketplaces.

Semaglutide has become a popular drug for both weight loss and type 2 diabetes, with its effectiveness and unique qualities gaining recognition. However, this surge in demand has attracted the attention of counterfeiters who seek to profit by offering fake versions of the drug. The consequences of falling prey to these counterfeiters can be severe, with potential health risks and administration errors leading to unintentional overdoses. As a result, unsuspecting patients end up in emergency rooms or experiencing prolonged side effects.

For millions of patients who rely on access to these medications, the need to differentiate between the genuine product and the counterfeits is crucial. However, identifying fake semaglutide has proven to be a challenge. Reports of compounding errors and adverse events related to semaglutide have been increasing, causing concern among poison control centers.

While the counterfeit drugs pose a significant threat, compounded medications also raise safety concerns. Compounding refers to the creation of a custom form of a medication to meet specific needs, often during drug shortages. While compounding drugs is not illegal, it does carry certain risks, especially when the compound pharmacist does not have access to the actual FDA-approved components. Compounded versions of semaglutide lack the extensive review and quality standards required for genuine products, making them potentially dangerous.

Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company that manufactures semaglutide, has been taking legal action against entities involved in the distribution of counterfeit drugs. They warn the public about the dangers of counterfeit products and provide guidelines to differentiate between genuine Wegovy and Ozempic and the counterfeits.

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To help consumers, Novo Nordisk has created a website that outlines the distinguishing features of genuine and counterfeit products. For instance, genuine Ozempic pens do not extend or increase in length when setting the dose, while Wegovy pens are fixed-dose auto-injectors without a push button for administration. These visual cues can help patients ensure they are receiving the legitimate medication. It is worth noting that compounding pharmacies often provide semaglutide in a liquid vial and an insulin syringe, which can make calculating the proper dosage challenging.

The counterfeit problem is expected to worsen, as the demand for semaglutide continues to rise while the supply struggles to keep pace. This situation raises concerns among experts and underscores the need for heightened awareness and vigilance.

Medical professionals emphasize that any compounded product today is considered counterfeit since it doesn’t originate from legally authorized companies. The absence of oversight and monitoring during production poses significant risks, especially for a drug like semaglutide that crosses the blood-brain barrier and has direct effects on the brain.

While patients like Susan M. from Texas express their willingness to resort to compounding as a last resort, experts warn of the potential dangers and stress the importance of obtaining medications through authorized distributors. Novo Nordisk has provided contact information for reporting suspected counterfeit semaglutide products, urging consumers to stay vigilant and report any suspicions.

In conclusion, the rise of counterfeit semaglutide presents a grave risk to patients seeking weight loss or diabetes management treatments. The influx of fake drugs calls for increased awareness and caution when purchasing medications. Patients must educate themselves on the distinguishing features that set the genuine product apart, and rely on authorized channels to obtain their medications. By staying informed and vigilant, patients can protect themselves from the dangers posed by counterfeit semaglutide.