Beware Of Fake Novo Nordisk's Ozempic - European, UK Regulators Warn About Fake Prefilled Pens

The European Medicines Agency warned about pre-filled pens falsely labeled as Novo Nordisk A/S's NVO popular diabetes drug Ozempic at wholesalers in the European Union and the U.K.

The latest reports of falsification come in the wake of an increase in demand for Ozempic, which has also led to a shortage situation. 

"There is no evidence that any falsified pens have been dispensed to patients from legal pharmacies, and there are no reports of harm to patients in relation to the falsified medicine," the European Medicines Agency said.

EMA said the pens have batch numbers, 2D barcodes, and unique serial numbers from genuine Ozempic packs. When the packs of the falsified Ozempic were scanned, the serial numbers were shown to be inactive, thereby alerting operators to a potential falsification.

The U.K.'s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) confirmed that falsely labeled pens of Ozempic have been identified at two UK wholesalers.

Following an investigation, the MHRA confirmed that the products, under the brand name Ozempic, were brought in from legitimate suppliers in Austria and Germany. 

MHRA also noted that there is no evidence that any of the falsified pens have been dispensed to patients from legitimate pharmacies or healthcare professionals in the U.K., and there are no reports of harm to patients concerning these pens.  

Last week, Novo Nordisk raised its FY23 guidance as sales of its blockbuster obesity and weight-loss drugs continue to surge. The company said it expects 2023 sales growth in local currencies of 32%-38%, from 27% to 33% previously.

Price Action: NVO shares are down 1.70% at $98.86 during the premarket session on the last check Thursday.