In a stark warning to the public, the Irish Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) has revealed a dramatic increase in illegal online sales of Ozempic-related medicines, with over 430 websites shut down this year alone.
The surge in illegal websites selling semaglutide—the active ingredient in Ozempic—reflects a growing black market for weight loss and diabetes medications. According to The Journal, the number of websites shut down this year is more than double the amount closed in the previous year.
Ozempic, primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, has become increasingly popular for weight loss. However, the HPRA warns that purchasing these medications online poses significant health risks.
According to The Journal, in a shocking revelation, the regulatory body seized 1,401 illegal products masquerading as Ozempic or similar brands in the past year—a massive increase from 568 units in 2023 and just 40 units in 2022.
Gráinne Power, HPRA’s Director of Compliance, expressed serious concern about the proliferation of fake products. “It is alarming how many illegal versions of these medications are being imported,” Power stated. She emphasized the potential dangers, noting that online prescription medicines can contain harmful substances or incorrect dosages.
Disturbingly, some confiscated products were found to contain ingredients typically used in beauty and cosmetic treatments, highlighting the unpredictable and potentially dangerous nature of these illegal medications.
The HPRA is conducting unannounced inspections and actively working to shut down these illegal online operations. The warning extends beyond Ireland, with similar trends emerging in the United Kingdom, United States, and Australia.
Consumers are strongly advised to only obtain prescription medications through licensed healthcare providers and authorized pharmacies, avoiding the temptation of cheaper, unregulated online alternatives.