The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is aware of several scams targeting consumers seeking semaglutide (Ozempic) during the current medicines shortage and is urging consumers to only obtain these products from an Australian pharmacy and when dispended on a valid doctor's prescription. While the product is still in shortage, over the last week limited supplies have become available nationally, and supplies are expected to return to normal over the coming weeks.
The TGA is investigating a number of websites claiming to be selling products containing semaglutide, (trade name Ozempic), for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and off-label for weight loss. In some cases consumers who pay for products online fail to receive any product, while in other cases the product received is not semaglutide. Even for those individuals who receive semaglutide, it may not be medically suitable for them.
Advertising prescription medicines such as Ozempic is prohibited. If you see any Ozempic products being advertised online this is a clear warning sign that the advertisement could be a scam. You can report illegal or questionable practices online to the TGA.
The scams include:
- the promise of purchased product being delivered to a consumer's home address
- that the product being purchased is authentic
- offers to compound semaglutide in a pharamcy
- advertising offers being distributed to GPs for distribution to their patients.
Consumers are strongly advised not to use products unless they have come from a trusted source. Novo Nordisk is the only legitimate manufacturer of semaglutide (Ozempic).
Legitimate products also include some overseas alternatives to Ozempic (semaglutide) that the TGA has approved for temporary supply. A list of all overseas approved products is available on the section 19A approvals database on the TGA website.
We are likely to see similar fraudulent advertisements for other diabetes and weight loss medicines. The TGA are working with other regulators in relation to these scams. We take appropriate action against non-compliant advertising where we can.
Contact for members of the media:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 02 6289 7400
