Crackdown on Illegal Ozempic Sales: Police Raids Target Black Market for Weight Loss Drug in the UK"

In a concerted effort to curb the illicit sales of Ozempic, a drug commonly used for weight loss, law enforcement agencies in England are conducting raids and making arrests. Ozempic, part of the "semaglutide" medication group, has gained popularity on social media, prompting a surge in demand and resulting in a scarcity of supplies. Authorities suspect that a black market has emerged in the UK, where a liquid containing the sought-after ingredient is being unlawfully sold.

Originally manufactured by Novo Nordisk to assist individuals with type 2 diabetes in managing blood sugar levels, Ozempic has found off-label use as a weight-loss aid. Celebrities, including Elon Musk, have publicly endorsed the injectable for its apparent effectiveness in shedding pounds.

Despite being legally available only with a prescription in the UK, regulators have identified a "small-scale" black market for semaglutides like Ozempic. Previous investigations by the BBC's Newsbeat uncovered instances of semaglutides being offered for sale on social media platforms and in cosmetics outlets.

This week, authorities arrested an individual suspected of illegally selling the drug online after raiding a residence in northern England. Vials of a liquid believed to contain the active ingredient were seized during the operation.

Advertising prescription-only drugs to the general public is illegal in the UK. Common side effects of semaglutides include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain, while more severe complications such as kidney, gallbladder, pancreas, and vision problems may occur. Although studies in rodents have suggested a potential link between semaglutides and thyroid tumors, including cancer, such effects have not been conclusively demonstrated in humans.

Dr. Morling, speaking to BBC Newsbeat, emphasized the risks associated with obtaining these drugs from unofficial sources. He warned that individuals could either fall victim to scams or face serious health consequences, including hospitalization.

Global demand for Ozempic has outstripped supply for months, and the UK anticipates shortages to persist into the next year. In July, concerns were raised about individuals with diabetes being deprived of the drug due to off-label prescriptions for weight loss. However, other

semaglutides, such as Novo Nordisk's weight loss medication Wegovy, are expected to become more widely used. The UK government has allocated a £40 million ($51 million) fund to enhance access to Wegovy, recognizing its potential to address obesity-related health conditions.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak highlighted the strain that obesity places on the National Health Service and expressed optimism that drugs like Wegovy could alleviate this burden. NHS Medical Director Steve Powis echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the potential of these drugs to combat obesity and improve public health outcomes, ultimately reducing the strain on healthcare services.