Cypriot health authorities are cracking down on the illicit distribution of counterfeit diabetes medications, often misused for weight loss, with raids planned across hair salons, beauty institutes, gyms, and other venues.
Elena Panayiotopoulou, Director of Pharmaceutical Services, told Philenews, “Our efforts to ensure adequate stocks of injectable diabetes medications aim to reserve these treatments solely for patients with genuine medical needs rather than aesthetic purposes.”
She stressed the authorities’ responsibility to “guarantee that reduced stocks of these medications do not leave diabetic patients without their required treatment due to reckless use by others for cosmetic reasons.”
Panayiotopoulou revealed that Pharmaceutical Services has received complaints about counterfeit injectables being circulated in various establishments. “Taking advantage of the increased international administration of these drugs for weight loss, certain individuals appear to be channelling counterfeit versions into the European market, including Cyprus, selling them at very low prices,” she explained.
The crackdown follows warnings from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) regarding the exploitation of increased demand for these medications. “The exploitation of the increased demand for these medications has reached Europe, and Cyprus is no exception,” Panayiotopoulou emphasised.
The director reiterated that injectable diabetes medications are primarily intended for diabetic patients and those with specific medical conditions.
She affirmed the authorities’ commitment to maintaining sufficient stock levels and intensifying pharmacy inspections to combat the illicit trade.
“However, we must also ensure that no citizen falls victim to unscrupulous individuals seeking easy profits,” Panayiotopoulou concluded, highlighting the need to protect public health and safety.
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