Fake Ozempic Injections Circulate Social Media Amid Global Shortage: 'Felt Like I Was Going To Die'

As the worldwide shortage of the ‘miracle’ weight-loss injections of Ozempic intensifies, counterfeit versions are being fraudulently sold on social media platforms, causing severe health concerns, The Times reported.

Victims have been duped into buying vials of insulin and other unidentified substances, mistaking them for the ‘miracle’ weight-loss drug. The victims reported dangerous side effects such as extreme heart palpitations, inability to eat, and severe gastrointestinal issues.

One such user described that she received the drug through Instagram at a knocked-down price of GBP60 ($76.33) per injection, considerably lower than a commonly cited retail price of about GBP150 ($190.84). However, she dismissed the side effects as thinking it was common among users.

With increased dosage, her side effects shot up.

"It woke me up and my heart was beating so fast I honestly thought I was going to have a heart attack. That obviously scared me and I honestly felt like I was going to die,” she said.

Health experts and authorities fear an increase in casualties as the black market expands due to the ongoing restrictions on legitimate supplies. The medicine watchdog has warned that products from suppliers trading illegally pose significant health risks. Investigations into these illicit activities are reportedly underway.

Originally approved in the U.K. for treating diabetes, Ozempic has gained global recognition due to its appetite-suppressing qualities, with several celebrities endorsing it.

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