The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), in conjunction with Sandoz Pty Ltd and Novartis Australia, has investigated reports of counterfeit Somatropin HGH vials in community circulation.
From this investigation the TGA has established that Novartis-Bio Somatropin HGH (191 amino acid sequence rDNA origin for injection) 3.7mg per Vial (10x10IU Vials of Somatropin) as presented in the photographs below is not marketed in Australia by either Sandoz Pty Ltd or Novartis Australia.
The manufacturer of the original product, Novartis-Bio, confirmed that the product in question is not a commercial product of Novartis Australia and is a suspected counterfeit based on the packaging and invalid batch number present on the product.
Counterfeit Somatropin Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vials pose a serious risk to your health and should not be taken.
The supply of counterfeit Somatropin Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vials in Australia is illegal.
Information for consumers
- Stop using Somatropin Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vials and take any remaining vials to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.
- If you have any concerns arising from your use of this product, consult your health care practitioner.
- If you suspect you have had a side effect (also known as an adverse event) to this product, please report it to the TGA. In addition, if you have concerns about this or other products, you can make a report to the TGA on 1800 020 653 or through our website.
Action the TGA is taking
The TGA is working with the Australian Border Force (ABF) to help stop shipments of Somatropin Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vials from entering Australia.
The TGA will notify ABF to seize and destroy any of these products intercepted at the border.
The TGA is advising consumers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing medicines from unknown overseas Internet sites and has produced a short video on the risks associated with buying medicines and medical devices online.
Products purchased over the Internet:
- may contain undisclosed and potentially harmful ingredients
- may not meet the same standards of quality, safety and efficacy as those approved by the TGA for supply in Australia.
Report counterfeit medicines and medical devices
If you are worried about counterfeit medicines or medical devices, and want to report an issue, you can report the matter to the TGA:
Phone: 1800 020 653
Email: info@tga.gov.au