KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 30 – The Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) has raised alarms over a shortage of Ozempic, a medication used for managing diabetes, amid growing misuse of the drug as a weight-loss treatment.
MPS president, Prof. Amrahi Buang, confirmed the supply issue, attributing it to the increasing demand from people without diabetes seeking the drug for weight loss. “Many people are only interested in the drug’s weight-loss effects, which has caused a surge in demand and led to shortages,” he told The Star.
He also pointed out that while Ozempic is not approved for weight loss in Malaysia, reports show it is being misused for this purpose. Amrahi warned that using the drug without medical supervision could lead to serious side effects, such as hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening.
Ozempic is a semaglutide-based injection designed to help adults with Type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. However, its weight-loss benefits have gained attention beyond its intended use, leading to growing interest from non-diabetic individuals.
Aesthetic clinics have reportedly started offering Ozempic-based weight-loss packages, and some individuals are turning to self-prescribing or buying the drug online.
Rachel Gan, honorary secretary of the Malaysian Community Pharmacy Guild, confirmed that distributors are now rationing supplies to prevent bulk purchases. “This is definitely not safe. People should consult a doctor before using any medication,” she warned.
Healthcare professionals have also raised concerns about the potential long-term risks of Ozempic, including kidney and gallbladder issues, highlighting the importance of using the drug under medical supervision.
