The popularity of the diabetic drug Ozempic has surged, not only among those with diabetes but also among individuals seeking its potential benefits for weight loss. Exploiting the high demand for this product, scammers are actively trying to capitalize on the situation. Simone Lis, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau, provides insights on what signs to be vigilant for in order to steer clear of falling victim to such scams.
British Columbia’s Better Business Bureau is alerting the public to be cautious of scams involving Ozempic, which may include counterfeit medication or deceptive online pharmaceutical companies.
In an official news release, the non-profit organization has highlighted that certain individuals with malicious intentions are attempting to exploit the “get skinny quick” trend associated with Ozempic, ultimately causing significant financial harm to those in search of the medication.
Simon Lis, President of the Better Business Bureau in Mainland B.C. and Yukon, emphasized that while infrequent, instances have been reported where consumers attempt to purchase Ozempic from online platforms without the necessary prescriptions.
“This is a significant warning sign. Consumers must recognize that this medication is in high demand, leading to nationwide shortages. It should only be obtained through a prescription from a reputable pharmacy.”
Ozempic, originally intended for treating Type 2 diabetes in adults, has gained popularity as a weight loss drug. It is important to note that Health Canada has not granted approval for the use of Ozempic for weight loss purposes.
In November, a woman from Cambridge, Ontario, reported to the Better Business Bureau that she had purchased two Ozempic pens via Facebook for $280. However, she encountered unforeseen complications when the company imposed extra charges for shipping, ultimately amounting to an additional $120.
Exercise caution when encountering “unrealistically low prices,” as warned by the BBB. Be wary of individuals selling the drug without the necessity of a valid prescription. The BBB recommends conducting thorough research on reputable online pharmacies and advises against using unconventional payment methods like prepaid debit cards, e-transfers, or digital wallet apps.
As of 2024, the shortage of Ozempic in Canada persists. Health Canada acknowledges the issue and is collaborating with pharmaceutical manufacturers to address the shortage of diabetes drugs, including Ozempic. However, the process of replenishing the supply levels is expected to take some time. Meanwhile, Health Canada advises healthcare prescribers to refrain from initiating new patients on these drugs unless there are no viable alternatives and there exists a clinical necessity to do so. This recommendation is part of the interim measures taken to manage the ongoing shortage until a sufficient and stable supply of Ozempic and other diabetes medications can be secured.
In April of the previous year, numerous Americans sought to purchase Ozempic from online pharmacies in British Columbia, citing weight loss reasons. This surge in demand prompted the provincial health minister, Adrian Dix, to take action. Despite an ample supply of the drug in British Columbia during that period, Dix imposed restrictions on prescription refills. This measure aimed to guarantee the continued availability of Ozempic for patients diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.