New York, October 3, 2024 – A troubling trend has emerged in New York, where individuals are openly reselling prescription medications for diabetes and weight loss on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, risking severe legal consequences. Listings for drugs such as GLP-1 semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have been found, with prices significantly lower than retail costs, attracting desperate patients amid ongoing shortages.
Criminal diversion of prescription medications can lead to penalties of up to 15 years in prison, yet the allure of lower prices drives many to seek these drugs illegally. A month's supply of Mounjaro can cost between $1,000 and $1,200 in pharmacies, prompting patients to turn to the black market.
Experts warn that purchasing these medications without proper medical supervision poses serious health risks, including potential side effects like osteoporosis and dehydration. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy has highlighted that the increased demand for these medications, coupled with insurance limitations, has led to a rise in illegal online sales.
Dr. Gregory Dodell, an endocrinologist, cautions that without proper monitoring from healthcare professionals, patients may face dangerous consequences from using these drugs improperly. The issue underscores the urgent need for regulatory measures to combat illegal drug sales online and protect public health.