Hospitalizations Linked to Fake Ozempic and Saxenda Pens, Over 350 Counterfeit Items Seized

UK Health Regulators Issue Warning Over Counterfeit Weightloss Pens Containing Insulin Instead of Semaglutide, Serious Side Effects Prompted Hospitalizations

• Hospitalizations have occurred after people took counterfeit Ozempic and Saxenda pens; health regulators warn these fake pens may contain insulin instead of semaglutide, which can cause serious side effects such as hypoglycemic shock and coma.
• The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has seized more than 350 potentially fake Ozempic pens since January 2023. Reports have also surfaced of counterfeit Saxenda pens acquired without a prescription.
• The counterfeit pens emerged amidst a global shortage of Type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic (semaglutide), which is also used off-label for weight loss. This demand, coupled with limited supply has induced a black market for counterfeit versions.
• Regulators warn the public against buying prescription-only medicines like Ozempic or Saxenda from non-legal sources, stating it significantly increases the chances of receiving counterfeited or unlicensed products in the UK.
• The MHRA advises the public to report any pre-filled weight loss pens purchased online for their investigation. They also urge patients who suspect to have received fake medication to report to the Yellow Card scheme for the monitoring of side effects.

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