What is this alert about?
In April 2025, the drug company Novo Nordisk told the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that fake versions of Ozempic (semaglutide) were found in the U.S. drug supply. Ozempic is a prescription medicine used to help adults with type 2 diabetes lower their blood sugar and reduce the risk of heart problems. It should only be taken under a doctor’s care.
The counterfeit Ozempic was not distributed through the proper Novo Nordisk supply chain. Instead, it made its way through unauthorized channels. The FDA responded quickly and removed several hundred fake products from the supply chain on April 9, 2025.
So far, six people have reported health problems after using Ozempic from this batch. However, none of these side effects appear to be linked directly to the fake products. All six reports came from Novo Nordisk, and the FDA is still testing the seized items to check what’s actually in them and whether they are dangerous.
The investigation is ongoing. The FDA and Novo Nordisk are working together to protect people from unsafe or fake medications.
How can I apply this information?
This situation is a reminder that counterfeit medicines can enter the supply chain and put people at risk. While this is still under investigation, the FDA is urging everyone to be careful.
If you are a patient using Ozempic, only get it with a valid prescription from a state-licensed pharmacy. Check your Ozempic for anything unusual and do not use it if it has the lot number PAR0362 and a serial number starting with 51746517.
If you work in a pharmacy or health care, make sure Ozempic is ordered only through authorized Novo Nordisk distributors. Always review the packaging and information to make sure the medicine is real.
This is research and a public safety investigation. While no harm has been clearly linked to the fake products yet, the FDA is working to learn more and keep the medicine supply safe.
If you think you’ve received counterfeit Ozempic or feel unwell after using it, you should contact the FDA or Novo Nordisk right away.
