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Writes Catherine Murombedzi (Health Correspondent)
The Medicines Control Authority Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and Health Professions Authority Zimbabwe (HPA) have issued a warning against the illegal sale, purchase, and use of Ozempic. Ozempic is a prescription medication for type 2 diabetes, being misused for weight loss.
MCAZ Director General, Mr. Richard T. Rukwata said it is an offense to misuse medicine.
“It is an offense for an unlicensed individual to diagnose, treat, and sell medicines to the public,” said Mr Rukwata in a media release.
Key Risks:
● Using Ozempic without medical supervision can lead to serious harm and potentially life-threatening consequences.
● Unauthorised sources may offer substandard or falsified medications, posing a significant threat to public health.
● Self-medicating with Ozempic for weight loss can have severe health risks.
Mr Rukwata stated that the use must only be for the prescribed use.
“Only access Ozempic with a valid prescription and under the strict supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Purchase medications from authorized sources, such as licensed pharmacies or registered healthcare institutions. Verify healthcare professionals’ credentials, including a valid practicing certificate, HPA license for premise registration, and MCAZ license for person and premises,” he said.
Selling medicines without a license contravenes Sections 50 and 52 of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control (General) Regulations, 1991.
The sale of unregistered medicines violates Section 29(1)(a) of the Medicines and Allied Substances Health Professions Act (Chapter 27:19).
Report to the police or health authorities and MCAZ, any unlicensed use of medicines.
Ozempic has risks and side effects. Common issues include gastrointestinal problems, pancreatitis, and vision changes. Serious risks involve gallstones, kidney issues, thyroid tumors, and allergic reactions. Long-term effects may include weight regain, microbiome disruption, and “Ozempic face”, which is facial fat loss that can be irreversible.
