The World Health Organization (WHO) and pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly are raising worries about fake versions of popular weight-loss and diabetes medications. These warnings come as counterfeit drugs have been reported in various parts of the world since 2022.
WHO highlighted that there have been numerous reports of fake semaglutide, the active ingredient found in Novo Nordisk's Wegovy and Ozempic. These drugs are widely used for weight loss and diabetes management. Fake versions of these medications have been detected globally, posing significant risks to patients.
Eli Lilly, based in Indianapolis, expressed its deep concerns in an open letter about the increasing online sales and social media posts promoting fake or compounded versions of tirzepatide. Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Eli Lilly's drugs Mounjaro and Zepbound. The company emphasized that it is the only legal supplier of these drugs and does not distribute tirzepatide to compounding pharmacies, wellness centers, or online retailers.
Eli Lilly stated that these counterfeit versions, frequently advertised or sold online, are never safe for use. Novo Nordisk has also issued similar warnings in the past regarding their medications.
The WHO advises patients to protect themselves by purchasing medications only with prescriptions from licensed physicians. The organization also urges patients to avoid buying drugs from unfamiliar sources, which are often the origin of counterfeit products.
Eli Lilly stressed that any product marketed as tirzepatide but not branded as Mounjaro or Zepbound is not manufactured by them and lacks approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The company underlined the importance of obtaining medications from legitimate and authorized channels to ensure safety and effectiveness.
The problem of counterfeit drugs has become increasingly prevalent with the rise of online sales and social media promotions. This trend has made it easier for fake medications to reach consumers, who might be unaware of the potential dangers. Counterfeit drugs can contain incorrect ingredients, incorrect dosages, or harmful substances that can lead to serious health complications.
Both WHO and Eli Lilly are committed to combating this issue by increasing awareness and providing clear guidelines for consumers to follow. They recommend always consulting with healthcare providers and obtaining prescriptions before purchasing any medication. This ensures that patients receive genuine products that are safe and effective.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/ Susmita Bhandary/MSM)
