FDA warns about semaglutide overdoses, adverse effects

Watch the Digital Desk with Virginia Poison Center in the video player.

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning about overdosing on compounded semaglutide products.

They released information saying there have been reports of dosing errors, some requiring medical attention and hospitalizations.

Dr. Rose from the Virginia Poison Center joined the Digital Desk to discuss the warning. Watch the livestream in the video player on this page.

You may have heard of semaglutide due to the popular medications Ozempic and Wegovy.

Currently, there are three FDA-approved semaglutide products: Ozempic injection, Rybelsus tablets, and Wegovy injection. According to the FDA, the medications are available only with a prescription and there are no approved generic versions. The medications are approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity, not for weight loss.

Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved. Compounded semaglutide is not reviewed for safety, effectiveness or quality, according to the FDA.

The self-injectable medication has led to some patients experiencing gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting and abdominal painting. Others have reported fainting, headache, migraine, dehydration, acute pancreatitis and gallstones.

It is not only patients measuring incorrect dosage, but the FDA released reports that health care providers have incorrectly calculated the intended dose for patients.

The FDA warns of illegally marketed semaglutide online and is investigating reports of counterfeit Ozempic in the country.

The FDA has previously alerted consumers to not buy off-brand versions of Ozempic and Wegovy.

Watch the full Digital Desk segment to hear more about the warning from Virginia Poison Center.

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