Counterfeit weight-loss drugs pose serious health risks, warns Irish Pharmacy Union.

The Irish Pharmacy Union warns against purchasing weight-loss drugs from unverified websites, citing serious health risks. The Health Products Regulatory Authority seized 7,815 counterfeit weight loss drugs in May, nearly five times the 1,582 seized in all of 2022. The union urges the public to think twice before buying medicines online, as they may contain harmful substances or be ineffective. Purchasing these products is not worth the risk, according to Tom Murray, IPU president.

The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) has issued a stern warning against purchasing weight-loss drugs from unverified online sources, citing significant health risks. According to the IPU, buying medicines from unregulated websites can expose individuals to counterfeit products that may contain harmful substances or be ineffective [2].

The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) reported a substantial increase in the seizure of counterfeit weight loss drugs. In May 2025, the HPRA seized 7,815 units of counterfeit weight loss drugs, nearly five times the 1,582 seized in all of 2022 [2]. The most popular counterfeit drugs include Botox and weight loss or diabetes treatments such as Ozempic and Mounjaro [2].

The IPU president, Tom Murray, emphasized the importance of purchasing medicines through verified channels, such as pharmacies. He stated that unverified websites could provide incorrect information or advice, and that Ireland's regulated supply system guarantees the efficiency and safety of medicines [2].

The surge in counterfeit drugs coincides with the growing market for weight-loss medications. The global market for weight-loss drugs is projected to reach $100 billion by the end of the decade, with India alone seeing a fivefold increase in the market over the past five years [3]. This growth has led to an increased demand for cheaper generic versions of weight-loss drugs, particularly those containing semaglutide, the active pharmaceutical ingredient used in drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy [3].

The IPU's warning comes at a critical time as pharmaceutical companies, including Eli Lilly, are developing new weight loss pills. Eli Lilly recently conducted a study on orforglipron, a new weight loss pill that showed promising results. The drug helped participants lose an average of 27.3 pounds (12.4% of body weight) over 72 weeks [1]. Eli Lilly plans to seek FDA approval for orforglipron by the end of 2025.

However, the increasing availability of counterfeit drugs highlights the need for consumers to be cautious when purchasing weight-loss medications. The IPU advises against buying these products from unverified websites to avoid potential health risks. Instead, consumers should rely on verified sources to ensure the safety and efficacy of their medications.

References:
[1] https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2025/08/08/Eli-Lilly-orforglipron-early-study-weight-loss-pill/2541754671928/
[2] https://www.rte.ie/news/health/2025/0811/1527850-online-medicine-warning/
[3] https://www.business-standard.com/opinion/editorial/weighty-issues-india-s-rush-to-make-weight-loss-drugs-demands-user-caution-125080701962_1.html