Counterfeit GLP-1 injections: how to protect yourself
Where medicines are scarce and in demand, counterfeits appear. How to recognise reputable sources, which warning signs to watch for and what to do if a pen seems suspicious.
- safety
- counterfeits
- pharmacy
In short
European and German authorities have been warning about counterfeit GLP-1 pens for some time. They may contain the wrong substance, the wrong amount or contaminants.
The best protection: get prescription medicines only with a prescription from an authorised pharmacy, never from social media, classified ads or websites that don't ask for a prescription.
Reputable sources
In Germany, prescription medicines come from local pharmacies or registered online pharmacies. Registered online pharmacies in the EU display a common safety logo; clicking it leads to the official register.
An offer without a prescription is always a warning sign for prescription medicines, as are suspiciously low prices or sellers who can only be reached by messenger.
Warning signs on pack and pen
- Missing or damaged tamper seal on the pack
- Spelling mistakes, blurry print or unusual language on the pack or leaflet
- No batch number or expiry date
- A pen that looks different from usual, or a cloudy or discoloured solution
- Delivered without cooling or without a package leaflet
What to do if you're suspicious
Don't use the pen. Take it with its packaging to a pharmacy to have it checked. Suspected cases can be reported to the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).
If you've already used a suspicious product and feel unwell, for example with shaking, sweating, confusion or severe abdominal pain, seek medical help straight away and take the pack with you.
Note
This Journal article offers general information. It is not a diagnosis, a prescription or a promise of any result. Whether treatment is suitable for you is decided by a doctor after reviewing your questionnaire. For acute or severe symptoms, contact your GP, the out-of-hours medical service (116117) or, in an emergency, 112.
Sources and review
Based on European Medicines Agency and BfArM warnings about counterfeit GLP-1 medicines and the EU common logo for online pharmacies. Medical review pending.
- European Medicines Agency: warning about falsified GLP-1 medicines
- BfArM: falsified medicines
- EU common logo register for online pharmacies