The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent medical product alert regarding falsified semaglutides, a class of medications used primarily in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, increasingly, for weight management. This alert comes after the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration Control (NAFDAC) issued an alert on the circulation of fake Ozempic pens in Nigeria. The alert identifies three specific falsified batches of semaglutide products branded as Ozempic, which were discovered in Brazil, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Related Stories NAFDAC to lift ban on sachet alcohol sales temporarily – Reps NCS, NEMSA, and FAAN worst government agencies for customer complaints resolution for May 2024 This announcement marks the first official notice by WHO following increased reports of counterfeit semaglutide products across various regions since 2022. “WHO advises healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities, and the public to be vigilant regarding these falsified batches of medicines,” stated Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products.
“We call on stakeholders to discontinue any usage of suspicious medicines and report them to the relevant authorities.” Semaglutides, including Ozempic, are widely prescribed to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. These medications, typically administered via weekly subcutan.
