By Staff Reporter
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and the Health Professions Authority (HPA) have issued a stern warning to the public against the illegal sale, purchase, and use of the prescription drug Ozempic—popularly known as the “skinny jab”—amid rising reports of its misuse for weight loss purposes.
Originally developed and approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has recently gained attention for its off-label use as a rapid weight-loss solution. However, authorities caution that unsupervised use of the drug poses serious health risks and could result in life-threatening consequences.
Ozempic is a prescription medicine that must only be used under the strict supervision of a qualified and registered healthcare professional,” said Mr. Richard T. Rukwata, Director-General of MCAZ. “Self-medicating or sourcing the drug from unauthorized vendors is extremely dangerous.”
The two regulatory bodies have raised concern over the growing trend of individuals acquiring the drug through online marketplaces, social media platforms, and unlicensed dealers. Such sources often bypass essential quality control standards, raising the risk of substandard or counterfeit medicines entering the market.
Authorities have cited legal implications for violators. Selling prescription medications without a license is a criminal offense under Zimbabwe’s Medicines and Allied Substances Control Regulations and the Health Professions Act. It is also illegal for unqualified individuals to diagnose, treat, or prescribe medication.
“Only registered professionals and institutions are authorized to prescribe and dispense medicines,” added HPA Secretary-General Mrs. Clotilda Chimbwanda. “Practitioners must be licensed and possess valid practising certificates, and health facilities must also be registered.”
The MCAZ and HPA are calling on the public to seek treatment only from registered healthcare providers and to verify the legitimacy of service providers through official channels.
