On 30 September 2024, the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), in collaboration with the Australian Border Force (ABF), issued a notice advising of the detection of counterfeit Ozempic®-labelled pens being imported into Australia.
The TGA warns that the counterfeit pens, which are reported to show various inconsistencies from legitimate products, pose significant risks due to unknown safety, quality, and efficacy. Patients are advised to only purchase medications from reputable sources, as the fake pens were imported from overseas websites. The TGA and ABF are continuing to test and intercept counterfeit products, urging anyone with concerns to report them.
The Australian Federal Government has banned compounded copies of Ozempic® as of 1 October 2024 due to serious safety concerns. Australian news media has speculated that the ban will fuel an increase in counterfeit Ozempic® importation and sale in Australia.