The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that due to a suspected global shortage of the commonly used diabetes drugs (which are also used for weight loss), an increase in the use of counterfeit medications has been observed.
The organization stated that counterfeit versions of medications related to GLP-1 Agonists are being sold and distributed through irregular means (including social media platforms), which poses serious health risks.
According to WHO, counterfeit medications are known to cause malfunction or toxic reactions. It is highly likely that these medications are produced by unauthorized individuals in unsafe environments and may be contaminated with bacteria.
Fake medications, including Ozempic and similar drugs (which were approved as weight loss medications in the global market), have been the cause of the proliferation of counterfeit drugs.
According to official reports, three people in the United States received medical assistance after using counterfeit Ozempic led to dangerously low blood sugar levels in 2023.
Last year, health authorities in Australia and Lebanon reported cases of hospitalization due to the use of counterfeit Ozempic.
GLP-1 Agonists (designed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes) reduce appetite and slow down the emptying of the stomach. Medical tests have shown that these drugs lead to a weight loss of 15 to 20% in patients.
The World Health Organization stated that the prolonged shortage of these medications and the availability of counterfeit drugs have caused the most harm to patients with type 2 diabetes.