by Ministry of Health

THE MINISTRY IS CONCERNED BY REPORTS OF MEDICATIONS, INCLUDING GLP-1 PRODUCTS AND COMPOUNDED GLP-1 FORMULATIONS, BEING OFFERED THROUGH ESTABLISHMENTS AND PROVDERS THAT ARE NOT 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.

We recognize that many individuals are seeking effective treatments to improve their health and wellbeing. 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.

The Ministry wishes to remind the public that prescription medications should only be used under the supervision of a qualified physician or other authorized prescriber. These medicines require a proper medical assessment to determine whether they are appropriate, safe, and effective for an individual’s specific health condition.

Patients are strongly advised to:

• Consult a licensed physician before starting any GLP-1 medication or other prescription treatment.
• Obtain prescription medications only from registered and licensed pharmacies as per The Pharmacy Act CAP 11.21.
• Avoid purchasing medications from unlicensed vendors, beauty establishments, social media platforms, or any source that is not authorized to dispense prescription medicines.

Obtaining medications from unauthorized sources presents significant risks, including the possibility of receiving counterfeit, contaminated, improperly stored, expired, or incorrectly compounded products. Such products may not meet established standards for quality, safety, or effectiveness and may place patients at serious risk of harm.

The Ministry’s concern is ensuring that patients receive safe, quality-assured medications.

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, Wellness and Nutrition remains committed to ensuring that all Saint Lucians have access to safe, effective, and properly regulated healthcare services and medicines.