FDA Warns of Counterfeit Ozempic: What You Should Know

Weight loss is a driving priority for the majority of modern adults. Between processed foods and desk jobs, what it takes to pay the bills also results in an expanding waistline—and all the health risks that come with it. The release of a new non-stimulant weight-loss drug like Ozempic inevitably leads to a surge in demand despite the acknowledged health risks involved. However, it’s essential to consider the Ozempic FDA warning, which highlights potential side effects and advises consumers to carefully weigh the risks before starting this medication regimen.

There has been a shortage of Ozempic on the market since 2022, and the recent counterfeit Ozempic FDA warning has revealed that the drug and its shortage are more potentially dangerous than we first realized. The FDA discovered and seized thousands of counterfeit Ozempic injections.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is a drug that alters your appetite-related neurotransmitters. It helps people feel full and satiated after eating less food. Ozempic manipulates your GLP-1 hormone, which reduces the amount your body wants to eat. It provides a profound benefit for both diabetes, as it can help patients take better control over their blood sugar.

It has also become a widely in-demand medication for weight loss, as it allows people to go long hours without eating. If it worked without side effects, it would provide a profound benefit compared to stimulant-based weight loss drugs of the past.

However, individuals harmed by the drug are pursuing several lawsuits against Ozempic, revealing its potential danger when used for weight loss.

Side-Effects of Counterfeit Ozempic

Exposure to a fake Ozempic may cause these symptoms:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation

Unfortunately, these side effects are similar to those that you might experience taking legitimate doses of Ozempic, as well. There have also been three cases of hypoglycemia as a result of patients taking counterfeit Ozempic compared to normal Ozempic effects.

How to Avoid Counterfeit Ozempic Shots

Like all counterfeits, there are several ways to tell the difference between a legitimate Ozempic dose and a fake.

• Pick up your Ozempic from a major retail pharmacy
• Avoid lot number NAR0074 and serial number 430834149057
• Check the box for spelling errors (really)
• Check the sticker on the end for poor printing, alignment, or adhesive quality.
• Fake Ozempic pens sometimes extend when you adjust the dosage. Real Ozempic does not.
• Ask your physician for a comparison

Pharmacies Beware

One of the biggest risks of counterfeit Ozempic is that many legitimate pharmacies stock it by mistake. While major retail pharmacies get their medications from the source, many smaller, local, and compound pharmacies get medications through online suppliers.

Counterfeit needles linked to the fake drug may lack sterilization, heightening infection and complication risks for patients using counterfeit Ozempic pens.

The best way to keep a pharmacy supply safe is to purchase Ozempic through authorized Novo Nordisk distributors. 

The Dangers of Ozempic Itself

Counterfeit Ozempic is dangerous because you have no idea what’s in the vial or if the needle is sterile. However, even authentic Ozempic poses potential risks. Common side effects include gallbladder disease, gallstones, and stomach paralysis. You may experience an increased risk of thyroid cancer, allergic reactions, and hypoglycemia.

The percentage of people who experience adverse reactions to Ozempic or elevate their risk of health issues is alarmingly high for an FDA-approved drug, especially considering its significant demand as a weight-loss solution. With the combined risk and costs, employers are also cutting off Ozempic coverage.

If you are taking Ozempic, monitor your condition with your doctor and watch for signs that it is causing undue harm.

Ozempic Weight-Loss Alternatives

Weight loss is a constant struggle for many people. In many ways, weight has more to do with biology than willpower. However, considering the risks, the challenges of using more natural lifestyle weight loss methods are worth your long-term health and safety. Ozempic is known to cause severe medical conditions related to the gallbladder, stomach, and thyroid.

Instead, you may consider replacing Ozempic’s appetite-reducing effects with alternatives that help you feel full faster and reduce your desire to eat beyond the nutrients your body needs to sustain a healthy weight.

• Healthy fiber: increases fullness and digestion efficiency
• Intermittent fasting: changes your body’s expectation pace for calories
• Improved protein and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) intake: more nutrients = fewer cravings
• Avoid processed food, which is addictive
• Improve sleep and reduce stress to minimize cravings for “sustain calories.”

Harmed by Ozempic? File a Claim Today

If you have an Ozempic prescription, there is a chance that you have already experienced harm from this high-risk weight-loss drug, as highlighted by a recent Ozempic FDA warning. Many have been through this harrowing experience of gallbladder and stomach disorders. If you have lost money to healthcare and lost wages to time off work, it may be time to file an Ozempic lawsuit. The legal team at Nadrich Accident Injury Lawyers specializes in lawsuits related to dangerous drugs and strives to get you a fair settlement for the losses, suffering, and long-term physical damage you have already experienced. Contact us online or call our office at (800)718-4658 to consult with a medical lawsuit expert about your case if you or a loved one suffered from side effects such as gallbladder issues, gastroparesis, deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism after taking Ozempic.