WHO Raises Alarm Over Counterfeit Diabetes and Obesity Drugs

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global alert regarding counterfeit medicines containing semaglutide, a drug used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. This stern warning comes in the wake of the detection of falsified batches of semaglutide-based products across multiple countries, posing a significant threat to public health.

In a statement released on Thursday, the WHO specified that the alert pertains to three counterfeit batches of medical products containing semaglutide (under the brand name Ozempic), which were uncovered in Brazil in October 2023, the United Kingdom in October 2023, and the United States in December 2023.

This official notice marks the first time the UN health agency has issued a formal warning after confirming reports of counterfeit products containing semaglutide across various geographical regions. Semaglutide-based medications, including the counterfeit products mentioned, are prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes to lower their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

"WHO advises healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities, and the public to be aware of these counterfeit batches of medicines," stated Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Essential Medicines and Health Products, as quoted in the statement.

The agency has observed a surge in demand for such medications, coupled with an increase in reports of counterfeit products, which could pose detrimental effects on public health.

Furthermore, the WHO is currently developing a rapid advice guide on the potential use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), including semaglutide-based medications, for the treatment of adult obesity as part of a comprehensive care model.

GLP-1 RAs are a class of drugs primarily used in the treatment of diabetes to lower blood sugar levels and promote weight loss.

As the prevalence of diabetes and obesity continues to rise globally, the WHO's timely alert underscores the urgent need for vigilance against counterfeit medications, which can have severe consequences for patient safety and health outcomes. By raising awareness and collaborating with regulatory authorities, the agency aims to combat this alarming trend and ensure the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain.