As Novo Nordisk grapples with the challenges posed by illicit sales of semaglutide, authorities in the UK and Europe have issued warnings regarding counterfeit Ozempic pens being discovered in the region.
The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) confirmed the identification of pre-filled pens falsely labeled as Novo’s Ozempic (semaglutide 1mg) at two local wholesalers. The MHRA emphasized that all the relevant pens have been recalled and none of the counterfeit drugs reached UK patients.
Upon investigation, the MHRA found that the fraudulent products had originated from legitimate suppliers in Austria and Germany. Consequently, the UK regulatory agency is collaborating with international counterparts to ensure the security of the broader supply chain.
Also Read: FDA Warns Companies Selling Unauthorized Obesity Drugs Similar To Wegovy And Mounjaro
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) also confirmed that the counterfeit pens had been traced back to wholesalers in Austria and Germany. Despite having authentic German packaging, the MHRA noted “substantial differences” compared to legitimate pens. The case is currently under investigation by EU drug regulators and the police, and German and Austrian authorities have issued noncompliance statements to the relevant wholesalers for failing to adhere to required procedures.
In response to the surge in illegal online sales of semaglutide, Novo Nordisk has intensified its anti-counterfeiting efforts. The company is working with a third party specializing in monitoring and removing illegal online offers and is actively engaging in physical investigations where necessary. Novo emphasizes the importance of patients only purchasing medicines from legitimate sources with a valid prescription.
This latest incident involving counterfeit Ozempic pens is part of an ongoing battle against counterfeit medications. In the past, the FDA issued warnings about unauthorized knockoffs of Novo’s Ozempic and Wegovy, leading Novo to file lawsuits against US pharmacies producing unauthorized versions. In October, the FDA issued warning letters to Semaspace and Gorilla Healing, instructing them to halt the online sale of semaglutide and Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide, a rival diabetes medication seeking approval for obesity treatment.
