CanadaUnauthorized and counterfeit glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist drugs—such as semaglutide products (e.g., Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy) and tirzepatide products (e.g., Mounjaro, Zepbound)—have been identified for sale in stores and online in Canada and may misuse Health Canada logos or lack the eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN). These products have not been assessed by Health Canada and may pose serious health risks (for example, wrong or missing active ingredients, contaminants, poor labeling or sterility issues); only buy prescription drugs from a licensed pharmacy, do not buy or use unauthorized products, and speak with your healthcare professional if you have used one.
How to identify it
Unauthorized and counterfeit versions of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist drugs.
The hazard
With growing interest in GLP-1 products such as semaglutide (e.g. Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (e.g. Mounjaro, Zepbound) for weight loss, some people may turn to unauthorized or counterfeit products, which could pose serious health risks because they have not been assessed by Health Canada for safety, effectiveness, or quality.
Health Canada has identified various retailers in Canada selling unauthorized GLP-1 products, both in stores and online. Some websites and social media advertisements misuse official Health Canada logos and display fake endorsements to mislead consumers. Health Canada never endorses a health product and does not allow its logo to be used in the advertising or packaging of health products.
Risk of using unauthorized or counterfeit products:
Unauthorized or counterfeit drugs carry many risks, including:
containing too much, too little, or none of the active ingredient
containing unlisted, dangerous or unknown ingredients
containing contaminants, such as solvents, heavy metals, particles (fibers, glass, plastic), or microbials (bacteria, fungi, endotoxins)
being poorly or incorrectly labelled
being improperly manufactured or stored
Unauthorized or counterfeit injectable products carry even more risks, such as infections due to lack of sterility, allergic reactions, and other serious negative outcomes due to contamination, improper handling, or unsafe administration.
Prescription drugs are used to treat specific medical conditions and can cause serious side effects and should only be taken under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. Without proper oversight, there is a risk of harmful drug interactions or adverse effects that a healthcare professional can help to prevent or to manage appropriately. In Canada, only licensed pharmacies can legally sell prescription drugs.
What to do
Only buy prescription drugs from a licensed pharmacy.
Do not buy or use unauthorized products.
Look for drugs that have been authorized by Health Canada by checking for the eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN) on the label and by searching Health Canada's Drug Product Database.
Speak with your healthcare professional if you have used an unauthorized GLP-1 product and have concerns about your health.
Know the risks of buying drugs over the Internet and know how to choose a safe online pharmacy.
Report any health product-related side effects or complaints, including suspected counterfeit and unauthorized products, to Health Canada.
The official notice
This page is a summary of the notice published by Health Canada, collected from Health Canada, CFIA and Transport Canada. Check the original before you act on it.
Read the official notice (opens in a new tab)