Zimbabwe’s health regulators have launched a major public warning about the illegal trade and misuse of diabetes medication Ozempic, commonly called the “skinny jab.”
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and Health Professions Authority (HPA) jointly announced strict measures against the growing black market for this prescription drug, which is increasingly being used as an unregulated weight-loss solution.
Known medically as semaglutide, Ozempic is officially approved only for treating type 2 diabetes under proper medical supervision.
However, health authorities report alarming increases in people using the injectable medication for unauthorised weight loss purposes.
The drug is being illegally sold through social media platforms, online marketplaces, and by unlicensed vendors operating outside proper medical channels.
Medical experts emphasize that using Ozempic without proper supervision can lead to serious, potentially fatal health consequences.
The joint statement from MCAZ and HPA specifically warned about risks including dangerously low blood sugar levels, pancreatitis, and kidney failure when the drug is used without medical monitoring.
The regulatory bodies highlighted several critical concerns about this illegal trade.
Selling or purchasing Ozempic without valid prescriptions violates multiple Zimbabwean laws, including specific sections of the Medicines Act and Health Professions Act.
They also warned that counterfeit versions or improperly stored medications circulating on the black market may be contaminated, ineffective, or even dangerous.
According to the authorities, only properly licensed healthcare professionals with valid certifications from both MCAZ and HPA are legally permitted to prescribe or dispense Ozempic.
The public is strongly advised to always verify a medical practitioner’s credentials through official regulatory channels before accepting any treatment.
Health officials issued clear recommendations for public safety. Citizens should always check that medical professionals have proper registration and licensing.
They should avoid purchasing medications from online sources or unlicensed sellers.
Anyone encountering suspicious Ozempic sales should report them immediately to MCAZ authorities through their official hotline.
Ozempic works by mimicking a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite.
While its appetite-suppressing side effect has led to its misuse for weight loss, similar trends worldwide have prompted health warnings from organisations including the World Health Organization.
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