‘Do not buy or use’: Health Canada warns of unauthorized versions of Ozempic, Mounjaro

Diabetes drug Ozempic is shown at a pharmacy in Toronto on Wednesday, April 19, 2023.

Health Canada is warning consumers of counterfeit versions of Ozempic and Mounjaro being sold in various retailers nationwide.

In a public advisory posted Thursday, the health agency said unauthorized versions of GLP-1 products like semaglutide, which include the widely-known drugs 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 warned.

Health Canada advised that these type of unauthorized products can pose serious health risks because the health agency has not assessed it for “safety, effectiveness, or quality.”

The popularity in these drugs have skyrocketed in recent years, as they mimic GLP-1, a natural hormone in the body, which helps treat people with Type 2 diabetes, manage blood sugar levels and treat obesity.

Health Canada says these fake products can contain too much, too little or no active ingredients, unlisted, dangerous or unknown ingredients and also contaminants like solvents, heavy metals or particles, according to Health Canada.

“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.

The advisory told consumers to only buy prescription drugs from licenced pharmacies.

“Do not buy or use unauthorized products,” they added.

It also warned retailers that the selling of unauthorized products or making false, misleading claims to treat illnesses is illegal in Canada.

Health Canada advises consumers to check for the eight-digit Drug identification Number (DIN) on the label.