Unapproved Compounded Semaglutide Raises Concerns in Canada

The recent surge in popularity of weight loss and diabetes medications has led to an alarming trend in Canada: the sale of unapproved, compounded versions of semaglutide, the active ingredient in drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Health Canada-approved semaglutide products, has filed a complaint with Health Canada regarding the promotion and sale of these compounded versions. This complaint comes amid warnings about dosing errors that have resulted in hospitalizations in the United States.

Several entities are reportedly offering these unapproved products, including compounding pharmacies, weight loss clinics, and medical spas. These organizations are purportedly selling or providing compounded semaglutide without proper authorization, raising significant health concerns for consumers.

The use of unapproved compounded semaglutide carries considerable risks. In the U.S., patients have mistakenly taken doses that are 5 to 20 times higher than intended, leading to serious health complications and hospitalizations. Reported side effects from these dosing errors include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fainting, headaches, migraines, dehydration, acute pancreatitis, and gallstones. Additionally, compounded drugs may contain unknown ingredients that could further contribute to medication errors.

Health Canada and Novo Nordisk emphasize that Novo Nordisk is the only company with Health Canada-approved semaglutide products available in Canada. They also stress that compounded drugs should only be used when approved products cannot meet a patient’s medical needs. Health Canada is actively monitoring the situation and gathering safety information from various sources to ensure consumer protection.

For patients seeking semaglutide treatments, it is crucial to consult with healthcare providers about appropriate, approved options. Consumers should exercise caution when approached by unauthorized sources and use only Health Canada-approved products containing semaglutide.

As the demand for weight loss and diabetes medications continues to grow, prioritizing health and safety by using only approved products under proper medical supervision is essential. The emergence of unapproved compounded semaglutide highlights the need for increased vigilance and regulatory oversight in the pharmaceutical market.