GLP-1 medications are used to treat Type 2 diabetes and obesity, mostly administered as injections. The most well-known one is probably Ozempic, which has become commonly used for weight loss.<\/p>\n
But the high cost has created a market for unregistered and unsafe versions of these medications, largely sold on social media platforms. These products are not tested or regulated in South Africa.<\/p>\n
Regulatory compliance officer at the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), Coceka Ntlantla said: “The products come from China, and some buyers don’t even receive the products in the first place.”<\/p>\n
As for what specific ingredients these fake substitutes contain, Ntlantla said that testing was currently underway, but that they can “have severe adverse effects”.<\/p>\n
These drugs are also supposed to be kept refrigerated, which does not happen if they are sent from overseas.<\/p>\n
Ntlantla further warned that one needs a prescription from a licensed health professional for this type of medication, which is categorised as S4, and to be monitored by a doctor while on the treatment.<\/p>\n
“Anything above S3 is supposed to be scripted on a prescription, and then you go to a registered pharmacy.”<\/p>\n
SAHPRA has also become aware of companies and individuals illegally marketing GLP-1 products online, and falsely claiming to be affiliated with or authorised by SAHPRA and some of South Africa\u2019s major retail pharmacies. Find out more from SAHPRA here<\/a>.<\/p>\n