The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on people to pay attention when buying medicines to avoid falsified and harmful products.
Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products, reported continued demand and usage of falsified semaglutides, specifically the brand Ozempic.
These medicines are prescribed for type 2 diabetes to lower blood sugar levels and are also used to suppress appetite for weight loss in many countries.
Meanwhile, a random spot check by MBC Digital at various pharmacies and drug stores in Blantyre City found Ozempic drugs readily available.
Pharmacists revealed that these drugs are mostly used by women seeking to lose weight without engaging in physical exercise or going to the gym.
By Alufisha Fischer
