Canadians are expressing a growing interest in GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro for weight loss, that increased demand has prompted a Health Canada advisory about the risk of unauthorized or counterfeit products. 

Health Canada says unauthorized versions of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist drugs, are appearing for sale both online and in stores across Canada. These products are not assessed for safety, quality, or effectiveness, and could pose serious risks to consumers. 

An uptick in websites and social media advertisements misusing official Heath Canada logos and fake endorsements to mislead consumers has been documented. Health Canada stresses that it never endorses health products and does not allow its logo to be used in advertising or packing. 

Alongside misleading marketing comes other risks, fake or unauthorized versions GLP-1 drugs can contain too much, too little, or none of the active ingredient. Additional concerns stem from potentially dangerous additives, harmful contaminants, or incorrect labelling. Consumers are also advised that injectable products may also be improperly sterilized, leading to infections and allergic reactions among other issues. 

Health Canada says the only GLP-1 drugs authorized for use in Canada are semaglutide-based drugs such as Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy, and tirzepatide-based drugs like Mounjaro and Zepbound. Consumers can check if their drugs are authorized by Health Canada by finding the eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN) on the label and verifying it through the Drug Product Database. 

Health Canada notes that GLP-1 drugs should only be sold by, and purchased from, licensed pharmacies, and that selling unauthorized or counterfeit products is illegal. 

The agency says it is actively monitoring the marketplace and continues to take action against the sale and advertising of unauthorized GLP-1 products, including seizures and the issuance of compliance or warning letters. Health Canada is also working closely with the Canada Border Services Agency to stop unauthorized shipments from entering the country. 

Those who have used an unauthorized GLP-1 product and have health concerns are urged to contact a healthcare professional. The agency also encourages users of GLP-1 drugs, including prescribed, suspected counterfeit and unauthorized products, to report side effects and complaints to Health Canada.