Health Canada sounds alarm on counterfeit Ozempic and Mounjaro as fake drugs surge across Canada, posing serious health risks

Health Canada is warning Canadians about counterfeit versions of popular diabetes and weight-loss drugs, including Ozempic and Mounjaro, amid rising reports of unsafe products being sold online and in stores that could pose serious health risks.

The rise of counterfeit drugs is becoming a serious public health concern in Canada.

Health Canada warns that unauthorized versions of GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy, are being sold in stores and online.


“Some websites and social media advertisements misuse official Health Canada logos and display fake endorsements to mislead consumers,” it said.

Health Canada cautions that these unauthorized products may be unsafe, since their safety, effectiveness, and quality have not been evaluated.

These drugs have surged in popularity in recent years because they mimic GLP-1, a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels, treat Type 2 diabetes, and address obesity.

According to CTVNews website, Health Canada says counterfeit products can have too much, too little, or no active ingredients, as well as unlisted, harmful, or unknown substances and contaminants like solvents, heavy metals, or particles.

“Unauthorized or counterfeit injectable products carry even more risks, such as infections due to lack of sterility, allergic reactions, and other serious negative outcomes due to contamination, improper handling, or unsafe administration,” the health agency said.

Health Canada advised consumers to obtain prescription drugs exclusively from licensed pharmacies.

Health Canada warned retailers that selling unauthorized products or making false health claims is illegal and advised consumers to verify the eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN) on labels.