FDA warns about counterfeit Ozempic in U.S. drug supply

Chris Sain President at North Carolina Board of Pharmacy
Chris Sain President at North Carolina Board of Pharmacy | orth Carolina Board of Pharmacy

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning regarding counterfeit Ozempic (semaglutide) that has infiltrated the U.S. drug supply chain. This announcement follows the seizure of several units of the counterfeit medication, which were found to be labeled with a non-authentic lot number, PAR1229.

The FDA highlighted that these counterfeit products can be distinguished by the placement of the EXP/LOT text on the pen's label. On counterfeit pens, this text is located to the left of the expiration date and lot number, whereas on authentic Ozempic pens, it is positioned above these details.

For those seeking more information or visual identification, photographs of the counterfeit product are available online. The FDA strongly advises patients, pharmacists, and pharmacies to verify any Ozempic products they possess for authenticity. Further guidance on reporting suspected counterfeit products can be accessed through their official website.