18:51 6 September 2025
Fake Medicines Flood EU Online Market, Regulators Warn
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has raised alarm over a surge in counterfeit drugs sold online across the EU, particularly weight-loss and diabetes medicines. Officials say fake websites and social media ads are promoting unapproved products that fail to meet safety, quality, and efficacy standards.
Most cases involve counterfeit GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide – popular as prescription brands like Ozempic and Mounjaro. Many counterfeits lack the advertised ingredients, posing risks of severe side effects and dangerous interactions.
Authorities have uncovered hundreds of fake Facebook profiles and online shops using false recommendations or unauthorized logos to mislead consumers.
Experts stress that limited reimbursement and high costs for weight-loss drugs in Europe fuel demand for illegal alternatives. Mike Isles of the Alliance for Safe Online Pharmacy said broader access to reimbursement could reduce the black-market appeal.
EMA reminds consumers that legitimate EU online pharmacies display a common logo linked to national registers; any site lacking it, or falsely citing EMA approval, is likely fraudulent.
(EURACTIV)
