The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is urging Saint Lucians to exercise caution when seeking prescription medications, particularly GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic, amid growing concerns about the sale of these products through unlicensed channels.
Chief Pharmacist Astrid Mondesir warned that while many individuals are seeking treatments to improve their health and manage conditions such as diabetes and obesity, patients should only obtain prescription medicines through authorized healthcare providers and licensed pharmacies.
“The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is advising the public to exercise caution when seeking prescription medications, particularly GLP-1 medications, for example, Ozempic, which is used for the treatment of diabetes and weight management,” Mondesir said.
She acknowledged the growing interest in these medications but noted that the ministry has become increasingly concerned about reports of GLP-1 products being marketed and sold through unauthorized outlets.
“We recognize that many individuals are seeking effective treatments to improve their health and well-being. However, the Ministry of Health is increasingly concerned by reports of medications, including GLP-1 products and compounded GLP-1 formulations, being offered through establishments and providers that are not licensed pharmacies,” she stated.
Mondesir stressed that prescription medications should only be used under professional medical supervision.
“The Ministry wishes to remind the public that prescription medications should only be used under the supervision of qualified physicians or other authorized prescribers,” she said. “These medicines require proper medical assessment to determine whether they are appropriate, safe and effective for an individual-specific health condition.”
The Chief Pharmacist advised patients to seek medical guidance before beginning any GLP-1 treatment and to ensure that medications are sourced through legitimate channels.
“Patients are strongly advised to consult a licensed physician before starting any GLP-1 medication or other prescription treatment,” Mondesir said. “Obtain prescription medications only from registered and licensed pharmacies as per the Pharmacy Act, Cap 11.21.”
She also cautioned against purchasing medicines from social media vendors, beauty establishments, or other unauthorized sellers.
“Avoid purchasing medications from unlicensed vendors, beauty establishments, social media platforms or any source that is not authorized to dispense prescription medicines,” she warned.
According to the Ministry, obtaining medications from unauthorized sources can expose patients to serious health risks.
“Obtaining medications from unauthorized sources presents significant risks including the possibility of receiving counterfeit, contaminated, improperly stored, expired or incorrectly compounded products,” Mondesir explained. “Such products may not meet established standards for quality, safety or effectiveness and may place patients at serious risk of harm.”
She said the Ministry’s priority is ensuring that patients receive medications that are safe and quality-assured.
“The Ministry’s concern is ensuring that patients receive safe, quality assured medications,” Mondesir stated. “If you are considering treatment with a GLP-1 medication, the most important thing to remember is this, speak with your physician first and obtain your medication only from a pharmacy.”
The Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring access to properly regulated healthcare services.
“The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition remains committed to ensuring that all Saint Lucians have access to safe, effective and properly regulated healthcare services,” Mondesir said.