image from Everyday Health
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
The Medicines Control Authority Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and the Health Professions Authority Zimbabwe (HPA) are warning the public against the illegal sale, purchase, and use of Ozempic, also known as “skinny jab”, a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
According to a joint press release by the two institutions, recent reports indicate an increase in the illicit use of Ozempic for weight loss purposes.
“It’s use for weight loss outside of medical supervision is potentially dangerous and could lead to serious harm to the user.
“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.
“We warn 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. The illegal sale and distribution of prescription medications is not only illegal but also poses a significant threat to public health,” read the press release.
The press release further added that 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 Health Professions Act (Chapter 27:19) Section 126 prohibits unqualified personnel from performing any act specifically pertaining to a registered profession.
“Therefore, diagnosis and prescribing should only be conducted by qualified and licensed personnel.
“Mandated to safeguard the public, HPA and MCAZ urge the public to seek medical advice and treatment only from registered health professionals and institutions. These can be identified by the possession of a valid practising certificate from the practitioner’s respective Council, an HPA licence for premise registration, and an MCAZ licence for both person and premises.
“It is an offense for an unlicensed individual to diagnose, treat, and sell medicines to the public,” added the statement.
