WHO: Medical Product Alert: Fake Ozempic (semaglutide)
Medical Product Alert: Fake Ozempic (semaglutide) Detected in Americas and Europe
Medical Product Alert: Fake Ozempic (semaglutide) Detected in Americas and Europe
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued Medical Product Alert No. 2/2024 regarding three falsified batches of Ozempic (semaglutide) identified in Brazil, the United Kingdom, and the United States in late 2023. Ozempic, a GLP-1 inhibitor used to treat hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes, has been misrepresented and falsely manufactured, posing significant health risks.
Details: batches involved:
- Batch number LP6F832
- Batch number MP5E511 (genuine batch, falsified product)
- Combination of batch number NAR0074 with serial number 430834149057
Risks:
Ineffective treatment, contamination, unknown ingredients, potentially life-threatening due to incorrect subcutaneous injection.
Recommendations:
- Healthcare professionals: Report adverse effects and suspected falsification to National Regulatory Authorities.
- Regulatory authorities: Monitor sales, notify WHO of identified falsified products, and advise against using affected batches.
- Public: Avoid using affected products, seek immediate medical advice if used, and ensure medical products are sourced from authorised suppliers.
Identification Tips:
- Check Lot and Serial Numbers against WHO's list.
- Examine Ozempic pens for quality issues and improper scales.
- Look for poor label quality and spelling mistakes on cartons.
For more details and to report any information, contact WHO at rapidalert@who.int.
Link to WHO MPA
