These unauthorized products, heavily promoted on social media and sold through fraudulent websites, pose a severe threat to public health. They are not approved by regulatory bodies and fail to meet any standards of quality, safety, or efficacy. Consumers are at a very high risk as these counterfeit drugs may contain incorrect dosages, no active ingredient at all, or even harmful and dangerous substances, leading to treatment failure, serious health complications, and harmful interactions with other medications.
Authorities report identifying hundreds of fake Facebook profiles and illicit e-commerce listings, many operated from outside the EU. These operations often deceptively use official logos and false endorsements to trick consumers into believing they are legitimate. National agencies are actively monitoring these illegal suppliers and taking enforcement actions, including product seizures, website blockades, and international collaboration.
The EMA emphasizes that GLP-1 receptor agonists are prescription-only medicines for serious conditions and must be used under strict medical supervision. Patients are strongly advised to consult a doctor and to never purchase these medications without a prescription or from unverified sources.
How to Identify a Legitimate Online Pharmacy:
To combat this, the EU has a common logo that must appear on all legitimate online pharmacy websites. Clicking the logo should direct the user to a national register of authorized retailers. A website is illegal and fraudulent if it:
- Does not display this specific EU common logo.
- Is not listed in an official national register.
- Uses the logo of a country not in the EU, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein.
Key Warning Signs of an Illegal Medicine:
- Advertised with claims of being "endorsed" by a national authority or EMA.
- Sold through social media platforms or unofficial websites.
- Makes unscientific claims of being superior to authorized treatments.
- Not available through licensed pharmacies or healthcare providers.
The public is urged to report any suspicious websites or advertisements to their national competent authority immediately.