Fake Diabetes Drugs in Circulation; Warns WHO

Since 2022, counterfeit diabetes drugs are in circulation in all regions of the world, the WHO warned in a statement.

According to the WHO, the drug concerns Ozempic, a medicine containing the active ingredient semaglutide, which is also approved in the EU for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. As it also suppresses the appetite, it is being prescribed for weight loss.

The fake versions of the drug look identical to the real medicine. As per WHO, the counterfeit drugs may not contain the right amount of active ingredients and could therefore lead to uncontrolled sugar in diabetics. Added to it, the fake drugs may contain other active ingredients that pose health risks.

The WHO called on doctors, pharmacists, regulatory authorities and the public to be vigilant.

The health organization advised people to buy the medicines on prescription from pharmacies and not online.