Compounded, research-peptide and counterfeit GLP-1s: the risks
Why compounded, 'research' and counterfeit semaglutide and tirzepatide are risky, and how to spot fake Ozempic and Wegovy pens.
Key point
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are not FDA-approved. Products sold as "research peptides" are not meant for humans at all. Counterfeit pens of Ozempic and other GLP-1s have been found in the US and abroad.
How to protect yourself
- Fill prescriptions only at licensed pharmacies.
- Check pen labels, lot numbers and expiry dates; report anything odd to the pharmacist.
- Never buy from social media sellers, WhatsApp vendors or sites that don't need a prescription.
- Report suspected fakes to FDA MedWatch (US) or Health Canada.
Sellers of these products face FDA warning letters and lawsuits from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly.
Sources
Checked against these primary sources on .