The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is urging the diabetes community to remain alert following the detection of counterfeit Ozempic-labelled injection pens at the Australian border. These fake products pose a serious risk to health and should not be used under any circumstances.

Although the counterfeit pens closely resemble genuine Ozempic 1mg products, they are falsely labelled with the batch number MPSD916, which has been confirmed as non-genuine by the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk. In addition to the fake batch number, typographic inconsistencies, such as altered text spacing and bolding, have been noted on the packaging.

These counterfeit medicines have not been assessed for quality, safety, or efficacy under Australian law. They may contain incorrect or harmful ingredients, and their use can result in serious side effects or adverse health outcomes. This latest alert is separate from a previous incident in September 2024, which involved counterfeit Ozempic pens found to contain insulin.

Diabetes Australia is reminding people to only purchase medications from legitimate Australian pharmacies. Medicines purchased online or from overseas sources may be fake and are not covered under the Personal Importation Scheme. Importing or supplying counterfeit therapeutic goods is illegal and endangers public health.

If you have a product marked with batch number MPSD916, do not use it. Take it to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. If you experience any symptoms after using an Ozempic product, seek medical advice immediately and report the issue to the TGA.

We urge the community to stay vigilant. Always verify product claims with trusted sources and avoid purchasing medications or devices from unknown online sellers.

For more information, visit the TGA website or contact Diabetes Australia at [email protected].