Health officials have raised concerns about the dangers of counterfeit diabetes drugs flooding the market. The Guyana Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) issued a stern warning against the use of fake Ozempic, a medication commonly used to manage diabetes and aid in weight loss. The World Health Organization (WHO) flagged three falsified batches of Ozempic (semaglutide), sparking alarm among health authorities globally.
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Origin of Fake Drugs
The fake batches of Ozempic were first discovered in Brazil, the United Kingdom, and the United States between October and December last year. These counterfeit medications made their way into regulated supply chains, potentially affecting unsuspecting consumers in countries like Guyana. -
Identification of Counterfeit Products
The GA-FDD pinpointed specific batch numbers that are potentially dangerous for consumption. Batch number LP6F832 is unrecognized, while batch number NAR0074 with serial number 430834149057 does not align with genuine manufacturing records. Even though batch number MP5E511 is legitimate, the product itself is falsified, raising serious health concerns. - Risks Associated with Counterfeit Medications
Health authorities underscored the risks associated with using counterfeit Ozempic. Incorrect dosages, exposure to harmful substances, and the presence of unknown or substituted ingredients could render the treatment ineffective or pose life-threatening consequences, especially when administered subcutaneously.
Healthcare professionals and the general public are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of adverse events linked to the use of these fraudulent medicines. It is crucial to be cautious of unregistered drugs like Ozempic that lack the necessary approvals from regulatory bodies like the GA-FDD. The safety of individuals must be a top priority, and swift action is essential to address the circulation of counterfeit medications in the market.
