FDA Seizes Counterfeit Ozempic Shots Amid Supply Concerns

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has alerted the public about the presence of counterfeit Ozempic injections within the U.S. drug supply chain. Ozempic, produced by Novo Nordisk, is a medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight loss management. The FDA has confiscated thousands of these counterfeit units, which are now being tested by the agency and Novo Nordisk to assess their identity, quality, and safety.

Health authorities have reported five instances of illness attributed to the counterfeit drugs, though no serious cases have been identified. Concerns have been raised over the fake needles included with the counterfeit products, which may pose an increased infection risk due to unverified sterility.

Patients are advised to acquire their medications from state-licensed pharmacies using a valid prescription. The FDA has specifically warned against units labeled with lot number NAR0074 and serial number 430834149057, and has requested that any adverse side effects experienced from the drug be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. Healthcare professionals, consumers, and distributors are urged to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of the Ozempic products they handle.