Authorities warn Aussies over the rise of demand for this medication: 'This is a weekly issue with every GP'
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In the world of healthcare, the balance between supply and demand could sometimes tip into dangerous territory.
These changes could lead to unexpected and concerning trends.
One such trend that has caught the attention of Australian authorities is the burgeoning black market for a drug famous for its side effects.
Ozempic has seen a surge in demand over the years.
Initially approved for treating type 2 diabetes, Ozempic's off-label use has been rampant, especially for those who seek ways to lose weight.
This demand led to a shortage that has many Australians worried and some turning to risky alternatives.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia's regulatory authority for therapeutic goods, issued a stark warning about the growing black market for Ozempic in the country.
The shortage has been exacerbated by a government ban on compounding pharmacies producing replicas of the weight-loss injections, which approximately 20,000 Australian patients previously used.
Dr Gary Deed, Chair of The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Specific Interests Diabetes, expressed his concern over the impact of this shortage.
'This is a weekly issue with every GP in every clinic in the country,' Dr Deed shared in an interview.
'Some people are actually now giving up and letting their diabetes be a bit less well-managed because they can't get what they actually need. It further complicates patients' distress.'
Ozempic manufacturer Novo Nordisk has been ramping up its production capacity to meet demand.
However, the TGA warned that an increase in supply will not be available until December at the earliest.
Alternatives like Wegovy or Mounjaro are also available for weight management.
However, both medications come with strict criteria, including a minimum body mass index (BMI) requirement.
Amidst the shortage, the TGA saw a worrying uptick of Australians buying Ozempic online—a black market that has 'exploded' in recent months.
Investigations have revealed how easy it is to obtain the medication through apps and online forums, with prices significantly marked up compared to its prices in pharmacies.
This illegal trade has inflated the cost of Ozempic.
These black markets could also have serious health risks, as these medications may be substandard, falsified, or counterfeit.
The TGA has issued multiple infringement notices and fines for unlawful advertising of weight loss medications, including Ozempic.
They have partnered with the Australian Border Force to disrupt the illegal import and supply of these medicines.
The TGA strongly advised Aussies against using medications without a proper prescription and cautioned against importing unapproved medicines for personal use.
Medical experts also warned that prescription medications like Ozempic carry potential risks, such as gastrointestinal side effects and pancreatitis.
These risks are heightened when the drug is used without medical supervision.
For those relying on Ozempic to manage their chronic conditions, it's crucial to understand the implications of this shortage and the dangers of turning to the black market.
Always consult with your general practitioner or healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
Be wary of any offers for prescription drugs that do not require a prescription.
If you or someone you know is struggling to access necessary medications like Ozempic, it's essential to speak with your doctor about alternative treatments or solutions.
Have you faced difficulties in obtaining necessary prescriptions recently? How have you navigated these challenges? Your insights could be invaluable to fellow readers facing similar situations, so please share them with us in the comments section.
These changes could lead to unexpected and concerning trends.
One such trend that has caught the attention of Australian authorities is the burgeoning black market for a drug famous for its side effects.
Ozempic has seen a surge in demand over the years.
Initially approved for treating type 2 diabetes, Ozempic's off-label use has been rampant, especially for those who seek ways to lose weight.
This demand led to a shortage that has many Australians worried and some turning to risky alternatives.
Ozempic has gained popularity over the years, which also led to high demand. Image Credit: Drugs.com
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia's regulatory authority for therapeutic goods, issued a stark warning about the growing black market for Ozempic in the country.
The shortage has been exacerbated by a government ban on compounding pharmacies producing replicas of the weight-loss injections, which approximately 20,000 Australian patients previously used.
Dr Gary Deed, Chair of The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Specific Interests Diabetes, expressed his concern over the impact of this shortage.
'This is a weekly issue with every GP in every clinic in the country,' Dr Deed shared in an interview.
'Some people are actually now giving up and letting their diabetes be a bit less well-managed because they can't get what they actually need. It further complicates patients' distress.'
Ozempic manufacturer Novo Nordisk has been ramping up its production capacity to meet demand.
However, the TGA warned that an increase in supply will not be available until December at the earliest.
Alternatives like Wegovy or Mounjaro are also available for weight management.
However, both medications come with strict criteria, including a minimum body mass index (BMI) requirement.
Amidst the shortage, the TGA saw a worrying uptick of Australians buying Ozempic online—a black market that has 'exploded' in recent months.
Investigations have revealed how easy it is to obtain the medication through apps and online forums, with prices significantly marked up compared to its prices in pharmacies.
This illegal trade has inflated the cost of Ozempic.
These black markets could also have serious health risks, as these medications may be substandard, falsified, or counterfeit.
The TGA has issued multiple infringement notices and fines for unlawful advertising of weight loss medications, including Ozempic.
They have partnered with the Australian Border Force to disrupt the illegal import and supply of these medicines.
The TGA strongly advised Aussies against using medications without a proper prescription and cautioned against importing unapproved medicines for personal use.
Medical experts also warned that prescription medications like Ozempic carry potential risks, such as gastrointestinal side effects and pancreatitis.
These risks are heightened when the drug is used without medical supervision.
For those relying on Ozempic to manage their chronic conditions, it's crucial to understand the implications of this shortage and the dangers of turning to the black market.
Always consult with your general practitioner or healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
Be wary of any offers for prescription drugs that do not require a prescription.
If you or someone you know is struggling to access necessary medications like Ozempic, it's essential to speak with your doctor about alternative treatments or solutions.
