Fake weight loss injections leave people in comas, urgent safety alert issued

Counterfeit weight loss injections falsely claimed to be Ozempic or Saxenda, have raised serious safety concerns in the UK. Authorities warn the public about the dangers of using these fake products, as several individuals have experienced life-threatening medical complications.

Warning Against Unprescribed Weight Loss Injections

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued an urgent safety alert, urging the public to refrain from purchasing pre-filled pens that are falsely labeled as containing Ozempic or Saxenda without a legitimate prescription. These counterfeit products pose severe health risks.


The MHRA has taken stringent action after discovering 369 counterfeit Ozempic pens in the UK since the beginning of this year. Alarming reports reveal that a "small number of people" have been hospitalized following the use of these fake weight loss injections. Tragically, some individuals have fallen into comas and experienced hypoglycaemic shock, a dangerous condition that can result in fatality.

MHRA's Chief Safety Officer's Warning

Dr. Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at MHRA, emphasized the critical importance of avoiding the purchase of weight loss pens from unauthorized sources. She stated, "Buying products such as Ozempic or Saxenda without a prescription, from illegally trading suppliers, significantly increases the risk of receiving something which is either fake or not licensed for use in the UK. Products purchased in this way do not meet our strict quality and safety standards, and taking such medicines may put your health at significant risk."

Dr. Cave continued by advising the public not to use any pre-filled weight loss pens bought online and instead to report such instances to MHRA for investigation and potential action. For individuals who suspect they have experienced side effects due to semaglutide, liraglutide, or any other medicine, or believe they have encountered a counterfeit product, the Yellow Card scheme provides a platform for reporting these concerns.

Ozempic and Its Connection to Weight Loss

Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is a diabetes medication that has been prescribed off-label to obese patients because of its weight loss properties. It shares the same active ingredient as Wegovy, a medication approved for some obese patients by the NHS with a legitimate prescription earlier this year, alongside Saxenda.

However, the surge in demand has resulted in manufacturers struggling to keep up, thereby creating an opportunity for black market activities, where counterfeit drugs are frequently sold. The illicit sale of counterfeit weight loss injections has presented significant health risks to unsuspecting individuals.

Government and Medical Community Responses

Health Minister Will Quince stressed that patients should only use medications like Ozempic or Saxenda when prescribed by legitimate sources, such as general practitioners (GPs) or other authorized prescribers. He expressed full support for MHRA's efforts to crack down on illegal online suppliers, ensuring the protection of patients from unregulated and potentially harmful medications.

Professor Paul Gately from Obesity UK voiced concerns about the dangers posed by fake weight loss medications. He emphasized the importance of patients only taking medications prescribed by qualified healthcare professionals and medical practitioners, in alignment with MHRA's guidance.

FAQs

Is Ozempic used for weight loss?
Ozempic is a weekly injection designed to assist the pancreas in producing more insulin, which, in turn, helps lower blood sugar levels. Although it is not officially approved as a weight loss treatment, some doctors may prescribe it for that purpose.

How much weight can you lose in a month on Ozempic?
A study revealed that individuals receiving weekly semaglutide injections experienced an average weight loss of approximately 15 pounds within three months, and a more substantial loss of around 27 pounds within six months. This translates to an approximate monthly weight reduction of 5 pounds.