Gov’t cautions Kenyans against counterfeit diabetes drug after Interpol alert

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has raised alarm over the counterfeiting of Ozempic Pens, which are injecting prescription drugs prescribed for adults with type 2 diabetes.

In a statement released on Thursday, PPB CEO Dr. Fred Siyoi cited an Interpol alert warning about the falsification of Ozempic Pens.

According to Interpol, Apidra Solostar pens, which are used to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, are being falsely re-labelled as Ozempic Pens in various markets.

"The Pharmacy and Poisons Board wishes to draw the attention of the public to an alert received from the Interpol concerning the falsification of Ozempic Pens (Semaglutide) where Apidra Solostar pens (glulisine) used to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes has been falsely relabelled as Ozempic (Semaglutide) Pens," said Siyoi.

Furthermore, Dr, Siyoi emphasized that Ozempic Pens are currently not authorized, by the PPB, for sale in the Kenyan market.

"Therefore, any product being marketed as Ozempic Pens is illegally in the market and the Board cannot ascertain their safety, quality and effectiveness," he noted.

Dr. Siyoi added that PPB has initiated a rapid response and heightened surveillance to verify whether the falsified Ozempic Pens are presently circulating in the Kenyan market.

"The Board cautions the public and healthcare professionals against trading, distribution, wholesaling, retailing, issuing, dispensing, use or administration to patients of the falsified Ozempic (Semaglutide) Pens, as such actions are illegal and jeopardise public health and safety," he stated.

He further urged members of the public and healthcare professionals to immediately share any information regarding falsified Ozempic pens with PPB.