Imported unregistered GLP-1 weight-loss products

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is issuing a safety advisory about the importation of unregistered GLP-1 products that are being promoted online for weight-loss. 

The products are often marketed as ‘GLP-1 peptide’ oral drops or liquids and may be falsely labelled as approved by international regulators or advertised with misleading quality marks or claims with the aim of deliberately deceiving consumers. We are also aware of reports of advertising containing fake health professional and celebrity endorsements for these products.

GLP-1 receptor agonists (like semaglutide, tizepatide, liraglutide) are synthetic analogues of the naturally occurring GLP-1 peptide and are designed to mimic the same effects. They are prescription-only medicines and are used to treat type-2 diabetes and, in some cases, weight management under medical supervision.

The native GLP-1 peptide are not included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and cannot lawfully be supplied in Australia. Further, there is no indication of medical efficacy of these unregistered products with GLP-1 claims, in particular for weight-loss.

We advise consumers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing medicines from unknown overseas websites.

Products purchased over the internet:

• may be fake 

• may contain incorrect or undisclosed and harmful ingredients

• may not meet the same standards of quality, safety and efficacy as those approved by the TGA for supply in Australia.

These GLP-1 peptide products present both financial and safety risks to consumers, including:

• No regulatory approval
  • These products have not been approved by the TGA or any other recognised medicines regulator such as the FDA or Swissmedic, despite often being labelled as such.
• Scam websites and ghost stores
  • Many of these products are sold through fake online stores impersonating real people or businesses and will take payments without ever shipping products.
• Misleading claims
  • The products are often labelled as “GLP-1” or “GLP-1 formula” and make unsubstantiated claims about their efficacy, particularly about weight-loss but also other health benefits.
• Health risks
  • Use of unregulated products may lead to serious health consequences, especially if they contain undeclared substances or are used without medical supervision.

Information for consumers

• Do not use any GLP-1 labelled products unless advised or prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• Always consult your healthcare provider before using any imported or unregistered medicine.
• If you are considering purchasing medicines from overseas, watch this short video on the risks associated with buying medicines and medical devices online.
• For your safety, always buy medicines from reputable sources and consult your healthcare provider or local registered pharmacy if you have any questions.
• If you have any concerns arising from your use of these or similar products, seek advice from your treating medical practitioner.

Information for health professionals

1. Health professionals also play a key role in identifying and managing the risks associated with unregistered GLP-1 products and should advise patients accordingly.
2. Health professionals are encouraged to report adverse events involving medicines, including unapproved medicines. These reports assist the TGA in identifying previously unknown side effects and other safety issues.

Action we are taking

We will notify the Australian Border Force (ABF) to seize and destroy any of these products intercepted at the border.

Other regulators also work to protect consumers from scams. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and Australian Communications and Media Authority have published guidance and other resources discussing how scams may be addressed.

Reporting problems

If you experience an adverse event you are encouraged to report it to the TGA as this helps us monitor and respond to emerging safety concerns. 

If you suspect non-compliance in relation to therapeutic goods, you can report a perceived breach or questionable practice online to the TGA.

We also encourage the reporting of non-compliant advertising.