Doctors Sound Alarm Over Illegal Ozempic Sales in Saint Lucia

The Saint Lucia Medical and Dental Association (SLMDA) has issued a stark warning to the public amid what it describes as a troubling rise in the illegal sale and promotion of popular weight-loss and diabetes medications by unlicensed individuals across the island.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Association threw its full support behind the Chief Pharmacist’s recent warning on the dispensing and administration of GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Semaglutide, sold under brand names such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro and Zepbound.

While acknowledging that these medications have become important tools in the treatment of diabetes and obesity, medical professionals say they are increasingly concerned by the growing number of non-medical practitioners advertising and selling the prescription drugs from locations that are not licensed pharmacies.

The Association warned that obtaining prescription medication outside of the regulated healthcare system exposes patients to serious health risks, including the possibility of receiving counterfeit, improperly stored or inappropriate medication without the necessary medical supervision.

The SLMDA stressed that GLP-1 medications should only be prescribed by licensed medical professionals who can properly assess patients, monitor their progress and manage any side effects. It also urged the public to purchase these drugs exclusively from licensed pharmacies.

“Quick, seemingly miraculous fixes are never the answer,” the Association cautioned as it appealed to Saint Lucians to avoid seeking medical advice or prescription drugs from unlicensed individuals or businesses.

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside the Ministry of Health, Allied Health Services, the Pharmacy Council and other stakeholders to combat illegal, unethical and potentially dangerous health practices.

Ending with a direct appeal to the public, the Association reminded citizens that no cosmetic or weight-loss goal is worth putting their lives at risk.

“If the pursuit of beauty risks your health and potentially your life, it is simply not worth it,” the statement concluded.

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