The FDA has issued a nationwide alert after discovering counterfeit Ozempic infiltrating the U.S. drug supply, warning of potential health hazards for unsuspecting users.
At a Glance
- FDA Warns of Counterfeit Ozempic in Circulation
- Suspicious Lot Number: PAR0362 and Serial Prefix: 51746517
- Novo Nordisk Partners With FDA on Public Alerts
- Patients Urged to Buy Only From Licensed Pharmacies
FDA Issues Urgent Counterfeit Warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers and healthcare providers after counterfeit versions of Ozempic, a diabetes and weight-loss medication, were found in U.S. drug distribution channels. According to the FDA, the fake drugs were detected with a specific lot number—PAR0362—and a serial number prefix of 51746517. The agency confirmed these products were distributed through unauthorized channels and may pose serious health risks.
Novo Nordisk, Ozempic’s manufacturer, is working closely with the FDA to notify the public and professionals about the threat. Together, they’ve urged extreme caution and emphasized that the safest course is to obtain Ozempic only through verified pharmacies and with a legitimate prescription.
Watch ABC7’s report on the incident at Ozempic Warning: Fake Weight Loss Drugs Alert.
Serious Health Risks Linked to Fakes
The FDA reported that at least six adverse events may be associated with the counterfeit Ozempic, although these incidents have not yet been conclusively linked. Officials warn that counterfeit versions could contain incorrect or harmful ingredients. In some cases, the needles included with fake products may be non-sterile, increasing the risk of infection.
Fox News reports that some consumers are turning to cheaper alternatives purchased online or through non-regulated sellers, especially due to the rising popularity and cost of brand-name Ozempic. Dr. Brett Osborn, a neurologist and wellness expert, emphasized that “unless you’re getting the medication from a licensed pharmacy with a valid prescription from a doctor, purchasing Ozempic or its knockoffs online is dangerous.”
How to Spot and Report Counterfeit Drugs
Novo Nordisk and the FDA are urging consumers to carefully inspect their Ozempic packaging. Counterfeit products can be identified by checking for the lot number PAR0362 and serial prefix 51746517. The FDA recommends reporting suspicious products directly through its MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.
In a statement to Fox News, Dave Moore, a representative from Novo Nordisk, said, “At Novo Nordisk, patient safety is our top priority, and we take the growing number of incidents involving counterfeit versions of Ozempic very seriously.” The company continues to collaborate with the FDA to remove illegitimate products and investigate their sources.
Consumers are advised to stay informed through updates from the FDA’s drug safety page and only trust medications dispensed by legitimate, licensed providers.
