The FDA and drugmaker Novo Nordisk on Monday warned that counterfeit vials of Ozempic® (semaglutide) are being sold to consumers and may cause a safety risk.
The FDA has identified counterfeit products where the label combines a real lot number PAR0362 and an illegitimate serial numbers beginning with the first eight digits 51746517. Lot number PAR0362 is an authentic lot number. Only when both the lot number is coupled with the eight digits 51746517, it is counterfeit and should not be used.
Novo Nordisk cautions pharmacies and individuals to only purchase Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection 1 mg and other semaglutide-containing medicines through authorized distributors of Novo Nordisk to be sure they are getting the real thing.
Neither Novo Nordisk nor the FDA can attest to the ingredients and effectiveness of counterfeit products, and they could present a safety risk for those who use them.
In addition, fake products were found to include counterfeit needles, which means the FDA could not certify that the needles are sterile and not a risk of infection.
Patients should double-check their Ozempic® box to see if it has the lot number PAR0362, and serial number beginning with the first eight digits, 51746517. These products are deemed counterfeit and should not be used.
Suspected counterfeit products may be reported to FDA by calling your local FDA consumer complaint coordinator or by reporting it directly at report suspected criminal activity.