The trend of rapid weight loss has opened doors for unscrupulous sellers in Poland. Online platforms now feature offers for the active ingredient of the well-known drug Ozempic, marketed without prescriptions and described as products “intended for clinical research,” according to reports from “Rzeczpospolita.”
As reported by the newspaper, various “alternatives” to Ozempic containing its active ingredient are being sold online. These products are available without prescriptions, with sellers claiming they are meant for clinical testing. However, investigations suggest that the actual consumers may be the ones using these products as “testers.”
Price appears to be a significant factor for buyers, as some offers are nearly 50% cheaper than the original medication. Additionally, the convenience of purchasing online without needing a prescription adds to the allure for consumers.
Concerns have also arisen regarding the distribution methods. These “alternatives” can be ordered for courier delivery or picked up from parcel machines. However, the issue lies in the fact that Ozempic requires specific storage conditions, needing refrigeration before its first use.
According to findings by “Rzeczpospolita,” sellers are exploiting a legal loophole. The offered products are not officially presented as medications but rather as substances for research purposes, complicating regulatory responses from market oversight authorities.
GIF Aware of the Issue and Working on Regulatory Changes
The Chief Pharmaceutical Inspectorate has acknowledged the situation. In comments to “Rzeczpospolita,” the agency expressed awareness of the problem but noted the practical challenges in pursuing individuals responsible for these suspicious offers.
Furthermore, the Inspectorate confirmed its participation in a working group since early 2026 focused on proposing legislative changes aimed at tightening current regulations.
