Health
Cheap Ozempic knock-offs have risen in popularity — but are they safe?
As prices for Ozempic have risen in recent months, many people may be seeking cheaper alternatives for managing diabetes or weight loss.
Some doctors, along with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are warning of the potential risks of using “knock-off brands” of semaglutides, which belong to the GLP-1 class of medications.
Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon and longevity doctor who has prescribed pharmaceutical-grade versions of these medications since 2019, said he is “concerned” by this trend.
OZEMPIC PUSH FOR SENIORS? SOME DOCTORS SAY MORE PEOPLE AGE 65 AND OVER SHOULD BE ON IT
“Due to the cost of brand-name Ozempic, more and more people are turning to cheaper knock-off versions, often found online or through non-regulated channels,” he told Fox News Digital.
As prices for Ozempic have risen in recent months, many people may be seeking cheaper alternatives for managing diabetes or weight loss. (REUTERS/Hollie Adams/File Photo)
“These knock-offs are synthesized in non-medical environments without the necessary quality assurance or quality control, making them inherently risky.”
There is the potential for these medications to be harmful when there’s no oversight of their source or production quality, Osborn warned.
OZEMPIC PATIENTS MAY FACE DANGEROUS RISKS DURING SURGERY
“When they’re made in unregulated environments, there’s no telling what you’re putting into your body.”
Dr. Sue Decotiis, MD, a weight-loss doctor in New York City, confirmed that some people are seeking low-cost alternatives, but noted that their potential dangers are becoming more widely known.
“This happened to one of my patients before he came to me,” she shared with Fox News Digital.
There is the potential for these medications to be harmful when there’s no oversight of their source or production quality, a doctor warned. (iStock)
“He got a medication from a pharmacy in Florida and then the drug just stopped working. Weeks later, the pharmacy shut down.”
Many of the illegitimate pharmacies that are not credited by their state’s local pharmacy board will “just disappear,” Decotiis said.
“You should only be using pharmaceutical-grade versions prescribed by a licensed doctor.”
The biggest risk is that the patient has no idea what’s in the medications, she warned, as disreputable providers could add fillers to the products.
Consider the source
Medications like Ozempic require “precision in manufacturing,” according to Osborn.
“You should only be using pharmaceutical-grade versions prescribed by a licensed doctor,” he said.
“The risk with these variants is too high, and there’s no regulation to ensure they are made properly.”
While some online platforms may be legal because a health care provider is writing the prescription, there could be other associated risks, a doctor warned. (iStock)
People should use caution when ordering any medication online, doctors agree.
“Unless you’re getting the medication from a licensed pharmacy with a valid prescription from a doctor, purchasing Ozempic or its knockoffs online is dangerous,” Osborn warned. “You can’t verify the product’s source, ingredients or safety.”
“I know of several nurse practitioners who stockpile Ozempic knock-offs and sell them on their Facebook pages,” he noted. “In essence, there is a massive black market for it.”
OZEMPIC, THE HAPPY DRUG? STUDY SUGGESTS WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATIONS COULD REDUCE DEPRESSION, ANXIETY
While some online platforms may be legal because a health care provider is writing the prescription, there could be other associated risks, Decotiis noted.
“It may be that there isn’t any personalized care or any body composition being followed.”
Shortages of these unregulated medications are also common.
“This is problematic after paying upfront, as many patients never get the medication they thought they would get,” Decotiis said. “The buyer must be aware.”
One of the biggest red flags is if an online platform offers to directly send a medication, Decotiis noted.
‘DUAL-ACTION’ WEIGHT-LOSS PILL HELPS PEOPLE DROP 13% OF BODY WEIGHT IN THREE MONTHS IN EARLY TRIALS
“If you can buy it directly, it is an unlawful site,” she noted. “These sites get shut down daily — who knows what they are actually dispensing.”
Legitimate compound companies only work with physicians, Decotiis said, and do not communicate directly with patients.
Cost-saving options
If cost is a concern, there are safer alternatives than purchasing knock-off brands, experts say.
“Many pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs — your doctor can guide you to those options,” Osborn said.
“There are other prescription medications that may be more affordable, but still safe and effective for lowering insulin levels and driving weight loss,” he added, a doctor said. (iStock)
“There are other prescription medications that may be more affordable, but still safe and effective for lowering insulin levels and driving weight loss,” he added.
One example is metformin, another time-tested diabetes medication.
Added Osborn, “Under no circumstances should you turn to unregulated alternatives just to save money.”
WEGOVY, THE WEIGHT-LOSS MEDICATION, GETS FDA APPROVAL FOR USE AS HEART DISEASE PREVENTION DRUG
Decotiis acknowledged that it can be “very difficult” for many people to obtain Ozempic and similar medications.
“These drugs are expensive, and it’s hard for many people to get the care they need,” she said.
“Under no circumstances should you turn to unregulated alternatives just to save money.”
“For compounded products, you’re paying by ounce, while with big pharma, you’re paying for a monthly supply,” she went on.
“With the big pharma drugs, you’re paying more up front, but as it goes up in dose, it’s actually cheaper.”
Medications like Ozempic should only be prescribed by a physician licensed to write prescription, doctors advise. (iStock)
With compounded medications, a licensed pharmacist or physician combines, mixes or alters the ingredients to create a customized drug to meet a patient’s individual needs, but it is not FDA-approved, according to the agency.
“This means the agency does not review compounded drugs for safety, effectiveness or quality before they are marketed,” the FDA states on its website.
‘Safety first’
Osborn reiterated that medications like Ozempic should only be prescribed by a physician licensed to write prescriptions — “not a nurse practitioner via a telemedicine visit or a chiropractor.”
“When used correctly, these medications are powerful tools, but can be dangerous in the wrong hands,” he said.
“Always consult a health care provider with the proper training and experience in using these medications. Safety first.”
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
The FDA and the World Health Organization (WHO) have both investigated cases of counterfeit Ozempic products in recent months and years.
The FDA recommends that retail pharmacies only purchase authentic Ozempic through authorized distributors of Novo Nordisk, the company that makes Ozempic and Wegovy, and that patients only obtain Ozempic with a valid prescription through state-licensed pharmacies. (iStock)
“FDA is aware that some patients and health care professionals may look to unapproved versions of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) drugs, including semaglutide and tirzepatide, as an option for weight loss,” the agency wrote in a recent announcement on its website.
“This can be risky for patients, as unapproved versions do not undergo FDA’s review for safety, effectiveness and quality before they are marketed.”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
The FDA recommends that retail pharmacies only purchase authentic Ozempic through authorized distributors of Novo Nordisk, the company that makes Ozempic and Wegovy, and that patients only obtain Ozempic with a valid prescription through state-licensed pharmacies.
Fox News Digital reached out to Novo Nordisk and the FDA for comment.
Even as Floridians cope with Hurricane Milton, the aftermath of Hurricane Helene continues to affect the U.S.
Among those feeling the aftershock, hospitals around the U.S. have reported a shortage of IV fluid.
Baxter International, an IV fluid manufacturing plant in North Cove, North Carolina, was hit particularly hard by the hurricane, causing its supply to be damaged by flooding.
HURRICANE FLOODING: 3 HEALTH WARNINGS ABOUT MOLD GROWING IN YOUR HOME
The plant produces 60% of America’s IV fluid supply at 1.5 million bags daily, the company stated.
Baxter International in North Carolina produces 60% of America’s IV fluid supply. (iStock)
Various hospitals have already felt the impact, according to a report by FOX Business’ Lydia Hu.
This includes Mass General Brigham in Boston, which is conserving its fluid supply, and UVA Hospital, which is postponing some elective and non-life-threatening surgeries.
Hospitals have noted that they’ve received less than half of the IV fluid they get in their shipments, Hu reported on Fox News’ “America Reports.”
HURRICANE EFFECTS POSE ‘TREMENDOUS’ HEALTH HAZARDS FOR AMERICANS, DOCTOR WARNS
Baxter International announced in a Monday statement that several of its global plants are “scaling and ramping production to help meet U.S. needs.”
“We expect to receive product from these sources throughout the month of October,” the company said.
Brian McCormack pauses after using a wheelbarrow to clean up debris left in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene on Oct. 1, 2024, in Marshall, North Carolina. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
As of Wednesday, the company announced its goal to restore North Cove production in phases and return to 90% to 100% allocation by the end of 2024.
The American Hospital Association (AHA) sent a letter to the Biden Administration on Oct. 7 requesting a declaration of the shortage and asking to invoke the Defense Production Act.
CHEF ANDREW GRUEL’S 5 KEY TIPS FOR PRESERVING FOOD AND GETTING THROUGH HURRICANE MILTON
“The AHA strongly urges the Administration to take immediate actions to increase the supply of IV solutions for the nation’s hospitals, health systems and other health care providers that are already struggling to provide care,” AHA President Richard J. Pollack wrote in the letter.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
Dr. Chris Derienzo, the association’s chief physician officer, told Hu that using the act would allow the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Defense (DOD) to increase production and ensure nationwide supply.
“I’ve heard from hospitals from coast to coast,” he said. “This impact is felt by patients everywhere.”
Cars sit submerged in a flooded area at a used tire dealer after Tropical Storm Helene in Hendersonville, North Carolina, on Sept. 27, 2024. (Ken Ruinard/USA Today Network via Reuters)
Kenneth J. Perry, MD, FACEP, emergency physician at Trident Medical Center in Charleston, South Carolina, shared with Fox News Digital that IV fluids are “very important” for treating a variety of conditions in the emergency department.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
“From nausea and vomiting, dehydration, rhabdomyolisis and even infections, fluids are a cornerstone of treatment,” he said. “With the recent destruction in North Carolina from Hurricane Helene, the production of intravenous fluids has been severely limited.”
To mitigate this, Perry suggested, the first step should be to ensure that everyone in a hospital setting is aware of the shortages.
IV fluids are essential for treating a variety of conditions in the emergency department, a doctor noted. (iStock)
“There has to be a team approach when we have such an acute shortage,” he said.
“Hospitals need to utilize every possible option for fluid administration, such as small-as-possible volumes of fluids and even changing protocols that initiate fluids without specific needs.”
“Physicians need to stay vigilant to ensure that we are able to adapt and change patient care protocols as new pressures arise.”
Shortages within the health care system are not new, the physician added, as hospitals around the world experienced supply shortages during the coronavirus pandemic.
“Health care entities had to manage to treat patients even as the supply chains were not keeping up,” Perry noted.
“Physicians need to stay vigilant to ensure that we are able to adapt and change patient care protocols as new pressures arise.”
Health
'I'm a radiologist — to reduce breast cancer risk, eat these 5 foods and follow these healthy habits'
Breast cancer affects one in eight American women, with the number of diagnoses rising every year, statistics show.
Fox News medical contributor Dr. Nicole Saphier appeared on “Fox & Friends” on Sunday to discuss the rising risk — and specific foods that can help reduce it.
“The biggest risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman, aging and inheriting a genetic mutation,” Saphier said.
BREAST CANCER SIGNS, SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR, PLUS WHEN TO SCHEDULE ROUTINE SCREENING
There are, however, many external factors that can increase the risk, she noted, including environmental toxins in foods and other products.
Fox News medical contributor Dr. Nicole Saphier appeared on “Fox & Friends” on Sunday to discuss the rising risk — and specific foods that can help reduce it. (Fox News)
“Western diets are full of ultraprocessed foods, and there are a lot of toxins in lotions and shampoos,” Saphier said.
“The things that we’re putting in our system and on our skin — it’s all affecting us.”
Lifestyle changes to reduce risk
While it’s not possible for women to get their breast cancer risk down to zero, there are some things they can do to reduce the likelihood of the disease, according to Saphier.
“Making small changes in our daily routines can lead to noticeable improvements in our health and well-being,” she told Fox News Digital.
BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSES SPIKING AMONG WOMEN UNDER 50, NEW REPORT REVEALS
“Whether it’s choosing a healthier snack, walking a bit more each day or getting a little extra sleep, these small steps add up over time and decrease our risk of cancer and other illnesses.”
The key is to strive for balance and moderation, she said.
“Making small changes in our daily routines can lead to noticeable improvements in our health and well-being.”
“You don’t need drastic changes to feel better; it’s about making mindful choices that fit your lifestyle,” Saphier said. “Little by little, those efforts can lead to a healthier, more energized you.”
In terms of specifically reducing breast cancer risk, one often overlooked lifestyle choice is breastfeeding, the doctor said.
Studies show that for every year that a woman breastfeeds, the risk of breast cancer is reduced by 4.3%.
In terms of specifically reducing breast cancer risk, one often overlooked lifestyle choice is breastfeeding, the doctor said. (iStock)
There is also a 7% decrease in risk each time a woman gives birth.
“Other things we can do are maintain healthy weights, not smoke, and [drink] alcohol in moderation,” Saphier said.
“Certain foods are also proven to decrease the risk of medical illness, specifically breast cancer.”
5 foods that can reduce breast cancer risk
Saphier recommends incorporating the following foods into your diet to help keep breast cancer at bay.
1. Spinach
Spinach’s big, leafy greens contain carotenoids, micronutrients that have been linked to a reduction in breast cancer risk.
Saphier recommended incorporating five specific foods to help keep breast cancer at bay. (Fox News)
“A huge study that looked at over 32,000 women over 20 years showed up to a 28% reduction in breast cancer in those who had a lot of spinach or these big, leafy greens in their diet,” Saphier said on “Fox & Friends.”
2. Garlic
Small studies have shown a decreased risk of breast cancer among those who regularly consume garlic, Saphier said.
Peer-reviewed research has shown that the active compounds in garlic could suppress the growth of cancer and kill cancer cells, although more studies are needed to confirm this.
3. Blueberries
Saphier shared that she eats two handfuls of blueberries every morning to get the benefits of the flavonoids and anthocyanins they contain.
“While you can’t get your risk down to zero, detecting it early gives you the best chance of survival.”
A recent study found that flavonoids could help to prevent breast cancer and improve the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
Antioxidants, which are found in red, blue and purple fruits and veggies, have also been linked to reduced breast cancer risk and recurrence.
“In a big study of 75,000 women, [blueberries] were shown to decrease the risk of estrogen negative breast cancer — one of the most aggressive types,” Saphier said.
4. Salmon
“I don’t love the taste of fatty fish, but I make salmon about once a week for my family because of the known health benefits,” Saphier shared.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
She cited a “huge” study of 883,000 women, which found that those who regularly consumed fatty fish had a 14% decreased risk of breast cancer.
5. Turmeric
This common spice has been shown to decrease inflammation and reduce cancer risk, according to Saphier.
In a “huge” study of 883,000 women, those who regularly consumed fatty fish were found to have a 14% decreased risk of breast cancer. (iStock)
“It was also shown in a study with colorectal patients to improve survival when used in combination with traditional cancer treatments, and was also shown to decrease the side effects of cancer treatments,” she said.
“I try to cook with turmeric every single day.”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
In addition to making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce risk, Saphier emphasized the importance of early detection in saving lives.
“While you can’t get your risk down to zero, detecting it early with your annual mammograms — or maybe ultrasound or MRI based on your risk — gives you the best chance of survival.”
A 7-year-old boy in West Africa who was going blind can now see again, thanks to life-changing eye surgery provided by the Mercy Ships charity.
Mamadou, whose last name was not provided, was born with bilateral cataracts, a condition in which cataracts develop in both eyes before birth or soon afterward.
When left untreated, the condition can lead to total blindness in some cases.
COVID LOCKDOWNS LED TO SPIKE IN KIDS’ VISION PROBLEMS, 1 IN 3 NOW NEARSIGHTED, STUDY FINDS
“We suspected that the cataracts were there already when Mamadou was born, but slowly they got worse,” Dr. Paul Rudalevicius, an eye surgeon who volunteers with Mercy Ships in Sierra Leone, told Fox News Digital.
Inherited cataracts and malnutrition are common causes of the condition, the doctor said.
A 7-year-old boy in West Africa who was going blind can now see again, thanks to life-changing eye surgery provided by the Mercy Ships charity. (SWNS)
Mamadou, who is from Waterloo, Sierra Leone, “wasn’t able to see much of anything,” according to Ella Hawthorne, an optometrist who also works with Mercy Ships in Sierra Leone.
“He could tell there was a light that was being turned on, but he couldn’t even really tell that a hand was being waved in front of his face,” she told Fox News Digital.
WOMAN WITH MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY COMPLETES 12 HALF-MARATHONS IN WHEELCHAIR FOR CHARITY: ‘WON’T LET IT DEFINE ME’
“He really couldn’t see the world around him very much.”
Mamadou’s mother, Salematu, recalled the poor treatment her son received due to his poor eyesight.
Mamadou is pictured before receiving treatment from the charity Mercy Ships. He struggled to walk because he would trip over objects, and he couldn’t see well enough to read or write. (SWNS)
“His friends always provoked him, and also laughed at him because of his condition,” she told Fox News Digital. “He was going to school, but could not see or write clearly.”
The boy was also having trouble walking and picking up objects, and was very sensitive to sunlight.
A life-changing surgery
Salematu tried several times over the years to get her son the surgery he needed, but local hospitals would not do it. Over time, his vision worsened.
Then Mercy Ships docked its hospital ship, the Global Mercy, in Freetown, Sierra Leone, to provide safe surgeries to residents for free — and Mamadou was selected.
“It was so wonderful to see him looking around and starting to perceive the world.”
Hawthorne recalled her first encounter with the boy.
AMERICAN DOCTOR, FUELED BY FAITH, BRINGS HEALTH AND HEALING TO RURAL SUDAN: ‘GOD IS IN CHARGE’
“Meeting Mamadou during patient selection here in Sierra Leone was just special,” she told SWNS.
“He is wonderful and quiet at first, but once you get to know him more, he comes out of his shell and engages you.”
After the surgery, doctors gave Mamadou a pair of UV sunglasses to wear as he got used to his new vision. (SWNS)
Time was of the essence for Mamadou’s surgery, Dr. Rudalevicius noted.
“If the cataracts are not removed soon enough, the brain can never learn to see.”
On Feb. 7, assisted by a team of medical volunteers, the doctor performed a small incision cataract surgery.
JOHNNY DEPP VISITS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL DRESSED AS CAPTAIN JACK SPARROW IN ‘MAGICAL MOMENT’
Although the procedure took only two hours, it “represented the start of a new vision and future for Mamadou,” according to a Mercy Ships press release.
When the eye patches were removed the next day, it was a little confusing and overwhelming at first, Mercy Ships noted, which is a normal reaction in children.
Mamadou is pictured after receiving eye surgery from the charity Mercy Ships. Time was of the essence for Mamadou’s surgery, his doctor noted. (SWNS)
“He looked around, trying to understand new information and identify unexpected objects,” the release said.
“His brain was not yet used to processing such a high level of visual activity — but after seeing the crowd around him smile and wave, Mamadou quickly joined in, sharing his bright and endearing smile in return.”
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
Doctors gave Mamadou a pair of UV sunglasses to wear as he got used to his new vision.
The boy began playing with toys, coloring and riding a toy motorcycle around the ward.
Mamadou receives surgical treatment from the charity Mercy Ships in October 2024. (SWNS)
“Being able to witness the patches being removed from his eyes was such an absolute blessing and a privilege,” Hawthorne told Fox News Digital.
“It was so wonderful to see him looking around and starting to perceive the world and being able to absorb some of the information around him.”
“It was so special, and you could see the joy that had started to build up inside him. It was a really good reminder of why I’m here and the impact our work is having.”
‘Celebration of sight’
A month after Mamadou’s vision was restored, the boy and his mother returned to the ship for a “celebration of sight, a ceremony for patients who have received successful eye surgeries,” according to Mercy Ships.
Salematu shared her relief and happiness with the outcome.
“My son can see me!” she said. “My son can go back to the community and interact with other children!”
After the surgery, the boy began playing with toys, coloring and riding a toy motorcycle around the ward. (SWNS)
“Unlike before, Mamadou can now move around without jumping his steps or falling, even when the sun is out.”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
Salematu hopes that her son will one day grow up to become a medical doctor and make a difference of his own, according to the release.
Dr. Rudalevicius added to Fox News Digital, “I hope that he will be able to attend school, to learn, to play with other children, and in the future maybe support his family.”
Baker Mayfield Reacts to Texas Players Planting Flag on His Oklahoma Jersey
Oregon Ducks, Ohio State Buckeyes Officiating Being Called Into Question
Harris and Trump will both campaign in battleground Pennsylvania on Monday
Plenty of Crisp Fall Days Ahead: Rhode Island Weekly Weather Forecast
Spencer Rattler Has Up and Down Debut for New Orleans Saints
Colorado Rockies game no. 116 thread: Zac Gallen vs José Ureña
See it: Tesla crashes into Columbus convention center at 70 mph
Fox News Politics: Georgia the whole day through
Death of missing Oregon girl found in stream ruled homicide
At least 2 dead as tornadoes hit Alabama, damage homes across Southeast
Trends are good in the swing county GOP chair calls ‘Little Pennsylvania’: It’ll ‘be a repeat of ‘16’
Suspending right to asylum goes against EU law, Brussels tells Warsaw
U.S. trio wins Nobel Prize in economic sciences for study of societal institutions' impact – UPI.com
Video: Harris Rallies in North Carolina
Catholics hold 'Rosary Rally' outside Gretchen Whitmer’s house after Doritos video sparks backlash
-
Health1 week agoHealth, happiness and helping others are vital parts of free and responsible society, Founding Fathers taught
-
Sports1 week agoFreddie Freeman says his ankle sprain is worst injury he's ever tried to play through
-
News1 week agoLebanon says 50 medics killed in past three days as Israel extends its bombardment
-
Entertainment5 days agoHold my beer can: Museum says a worker thought unique art installation was trash
-
Entertainment6 days ago'The Office' star Jenna Fischer reveals private breast cancer battle: 'I am cancer free'
-
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25673932/462754179_560996103109958_6880455562272353471_n.jpg "Meta suggests AI Northern Lights pics are as good as the real thing")
Technology2 days agoMeta suggests AI Northern Lights pics are as good as the real thing
-
Technology4 days agoScammers exploit grief with fake funeral streaming on Facebook
-
Lifestyle1 day agoIs the free speech debate dead? Plus, the devil! : It's Been a Minute