Mexico’s federal health regulator Cofepris has issued a health alert warning consumers about counterfeit versions of Ozempic, the popular weight-loss and diabetes drug, circulating in the country.

The alert concerns falsified Ozempic 0.25 mg-0.5 mg/dosis (semaglutide), an injectable solution in a pre-filled pen, and was triggered by a technical-documentary analysis submitted by the drug’s importer, Novo Nordisk México.

The counterfeit batch carries lot number PP5K617 with an expiration date of August 2026. Its main identifying anomaly is that the pre-filled pen differs from Novo Nordisk’s genuine Flextouch device.

Cofepris warned that consuming this product poses a public health risk because its origin, raw materials, manufacturing conditions, storage and transport are all unknown. There is also a possibility the medication may be contaminated, adulterated or altered, which could cause adverse reactions or unintended effects in patients.

This is the second such alert issued by the regulator in under two months, reflecting growing concern over irregular products reaching the national market as demand for the weight-loss drug continues to surge.

Cofepris reminded the public that Ozempic requires a prescription and that its use without medical supervision carries additional risks.

Authorities are asking anyone who has purchased the flagged lot to stop using it immediately and seek medical attention. Pharmacies and distributors have been instructed to immediately immobilize any stock from the identified lot. Members of the public with information about where it is being sold are urged to report it to Cofepris.

With reports from El Financiero