ALBAWABA The World Health Organization (WHO) and pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly have issued urgent warnings regarding the proliferation of counterfeit weight-loss and diabetes medications.
These fake drugs pose significant health risks to patients and undermine efforts to manage and treat these conditions effectively.
Since 2022, the WHO has received multiple reports of counterfeit semaglutide circulating globally. Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's popular medications, Wegovy and Ozempic, both used for weight loss and diabetes management.
These reports highlight a troubling trend of counterfeit pharmaceuticals impacting every region of the world.
In an open letter, Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly expressed grave concerns over the increasing availability of fake or compounded versions of tirzepatide. Tirzepatide is the key component of Eli Lilly's drugs Mounjaro and Zepbound, which are designed for treating diabetes and aiding weight loss.
The company emphasized that it is the sole legitimate supplier of these medications and does not distribute tirzepatide to compounding pharmacies, wellness centers, or online vendors. Any tirzepatide product not branded as Mounjaro or Zepbound is unauthorized and not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Eli Lilly stressed.
The WHO advises patients to protect themselves by purchasing medications only with prescriptions from licensed healthcare providers and avoiding unfamiliar or unverified sources. The agency's warning is a response to the growing accessibility of counterfeit drugs, especially online and through social media, where the legitimacy of products is often difficult to verify.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated, "The proliferation of counterfeit medicines is a grave concern that endangers lives and undermines trust in the healthcare system. We urge patients to seek medications from reputable sources to ensure their safety and efficacy."
Health Canada has approved Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy, underscoring their importance and the risks associated with their counterfeit versions. These medications are highly sought after, not only for their therapeutic benefits but also due to their substantial impact on patients' weight and overall health, making them prime targets for counterfeiting.
