By Takudzwa Tondoya
The Medicines Control Authority Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and the Health Professions Authority Zimbabwe (HPA) have issued a warning to the public regarding the illegal sale, purchase and use of Ozempic, commonly referred to as the “skinny jab.”
The prescription medication is primarily intended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but reports indicate a troubling rise in its illicit use for weight loss.
In a joint statement the organisations said Ozempic is a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
“As a prescription medicine, Ozempic can only be accessed upon presentation of a valid prescription and should only be used under the strict supervision of a qualified and registered healthcare professional. Self-medicating with Ozempic for weight loss can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences,” the authorities said.
MCAZ and HPA have advised the public against purchasing Ozempic from unauthorized sources, including online marketplaces, social media platforms, unlicensed premises, or unregistered individuals
“These sources often lack quality control and may offer substandard and/ or falsified medications but also poses a significant threat to public health,” read the statement.
The organisations urged the public to seek medical advice and treatment only from registered health professionals and institutions in order to safeguard the public.
“These can be identified by the possession of a valid practicing certificate from the practitioner’s respective Council, an HPA license for premise registration, and an MCAZ license for both person and premises,” said the authorities.
Citing relevant legislation, MCAZ and HPA said the selling prescription medicines without authorization is a criminal offense under multiple provisions of the country’s law.
“Selling medicines by unlicensed persons from unlicensed premises contravenes Sections 50 and 52 of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control (General) Regulations, 1991, SI 150 of 1991, as read with Section 106 of the same Regulations. Additionally, the sale of unregistered medicines is in contravention of Section 29(1)(a) of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act, as read with Section 29(1a) of the same Act,” the authorities said.
