Forewarned is forearmed
Unfortunately, we too often hear that people are tempted by illegal medication offers online, without knowing the dangers. The recent warning from the World Health Organization (WHO) about counterfeit variants of the diabetes medication Ozempic once again emphasizes that prescription-only medicines should only be used if they have been prescribed by a doctor and obtained through a reliable channel. Do not be tempted by the seemingly easy solutions offered online – the risks are enormous and can be life-threatening!
World Health Organization warns about dangerous counterfeit Ozempic variants
The WHO has raised the alarm over dangerous counterfeit Ozempic variants that have surfaced in Brazil, the US, and the United Kingdom. These fake injections pose a significant health risk to users.
What is Ozempic and why is it popular?
Ozempic is intended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, the medication also has a weight-reducing effect, which has made it rapidly popular among people who want to lose weight. Famous personalities such as Kim Kardashian and Elon Musk have promoted the drug on social media, significantly increasing demand for the medication. The manufacturer could not keep up with this demand, leading to a shortage and the emergence of dangerous counterfeit variants.
The dangers of counterfeit variants
The WHO warns that some counterfeit Ozempic variants contain no active ingredient, while others may contain potentially dangerous substances, such as insulin. This can cause serious health problems. A tragic example is a Belgian woman who fell into a diabetic coma after using fake injection pens. This incident highlights the danger of buying medicines through unreliable channels.
Why you should always obtain medication through a doctor
It is crucial to use medicines like Ozempic only if they have been prescribed by a doctor and obtained through a reliable channel. Here are some reasons why:
- Safety: Medicines obtained through a doctor and recognized pharmacy are checked and found safe for use. Counterfeit variants may contain unknown and dangerous ingredients.
- Guidance: A doctor can guide you in the correct use of the medication, monitor possible side effects, and assess its effectiveness.
- Expertise: Doctors have the expertise to determine whether a particular medicine is suitable for your specific situation. This is especially important for medicines used off-label, such as Ozempic for weight loss.
##The role of regulators
The WHO is not the only organization warning about counterfeit medicines. The European Medicines Agency, the US FDA, and the Dutch Health and Youth Care Inspectorate have also raised the alarm. These organizations are working hard to combat illegal websites and unreliable providers on social media.
Be critical when purchasing medicines!
From The Body Clinic, we want to warn you about the dangers of buying medicines from unreliable sources. Always trust your doctor for medical treatments and medicines. They offer not only the correct medication but also the necessary guidance and monitoring to ensure your health. Do not be tempted by quick solutions on social media or illegal websites; your health is not worth the risk.
Nicolette studied Medicine at the University of Amsterdam. After conducting clinical research for several years into the development of diabetes in overweight individuals, she spent years guiding people with extreme obesity before and after gastric bypass surgery, with a strong focus on lifestyle coaching. With the advent of various weight-loss supporting medications, Nicolette also specialized in this area. Her combination of medical knowledge, scientific background, and years of practical experience enables her to find the most suitable and effective treatment for you. According to Nicolette, lifestyle changes are crucial in achieving and maintaining weight loss. Furthermore, a healthy lifestyle is not only important for weight reduction but also leads to an improvement in physical and mental health. "I believe that sustainable weight loss revolves around the right balance between medical support and lifestyle change. Medication can be a powerful aid, but real change occurs when we work together on habits that suit you and that you can maintain in the long term. Through my years of experience with people living with overweight and obesity, I know that every story is different. What works for one person may not work for another. That is why I take the time to listen to your situation and together find the most appropriate treatment – so that you not only lose weight but also feel truly better, both physically and mentally. Weight loss goes beyond a number on the scale. It's about energy, health, self-confidence, and quality of life. And you don't make that journey alone with us."
