People in East Riding are being cautioned about the use of fake versions of the drug Ozempic.
Ozempic is a drug prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes in order to lower their blood sugar levels, with the active ingredient semaglutide. However a global alert has been issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) about fake versions being circulated to people to help lose weight.
Laurie Fergusson, Deputy Director of public health in East Riding said: “The drug is sometimes known as the ‘skinny jab’, and people without diabetes have been getting hold of the drug for weight-loss, which has led to a shortage of the medication for people with diabetes. This has also created a market for counterfeit drugs and fake batches have been seized in the UK.
“I would urge people to look at a healthy, balanced lifestyle rather than to take products where the contents are unknown.”
WHO has warned that: “Some fake injections may not contain semaglutide at all or others may contain other medications, such as insulin, leading to unpredictable effects. These falsified products could have harmful effects to people’s health.”
Residents in the East Riding can access health and wellbeing support through the Healthier Futures programme, run by Xyla Health and Wellbeing.
Healthier Futures: www.healthier-futures.co.uk or call 0330 236 9102. People can also ask for a referral via their local GP.
Anyone who is concerned about diabetes management should talk to their GP or health professional.