FDA Seizes Thousands of Counterfeit Ozempic Units
The FDA has seized thousands of units of counterfeit Ozempic, a type 2 diabetes drug, from the US drug supply chain Caution is advised for suppliers, pharmacies, and patients Although five people fell ill, no serious cases have been reported
The US FDA issued a warning on Thursday regarding the seizure of "thousands of units" of counterfeit Ozempic, a type 2 diabetes drug, from the US drug supply chain. Patients, suppliers, and pharmacies are advised to exercise caution. Although five people have experienced illness related to these counterfeit products, none of the cases have been severe, according to the FDA.
The FDA advises pharmacies, health care facilities, wholesalers, and patients to carefully verify their semaglutide products to ensure authenticity. Injectable Ozempic products with a lot number of NAR0074 and a serial number of 430834149057 on the box should not be used.
The agency and drug manufacturer Novo Nordisk are currently conducting tests on the counterfeit products to determine their potential danger and to identify the substance. The FDA has confirmed that the pen labels, cartons, patient and healthcare professional information, and needles included with the injectors are all counterfeit. Due to the inability to confirm the sterility of the needles, using them could result in infection. Patients are advised by the FDA to only obtain their medication from state-licensed pharmacies with a valid prescription.
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Additionally, the FDA has issued warnings to online vendors to cease the sale of counterfeit products. Novo Nordisk has taken legal action to prevent medical spas, clinics, and weight loss centers from distributing counterfeit versions.
The FDA is collaborating with other federal agencies and Novo Nordisk to eliminate more counterfeit semaglutide injectable products from the market. If consumers have any questions or come across fake products, they can contact Novo Nordisk at 1-800-727-6500. Additionally, people can report the counterfeit products to their local FDA consumer complaint coordinator or on the FDA's website.
Correction: This story has been updated to properly reflect the amount of counterfeit Ozempic seized.
