LAST week, TGA officers raided a Sydney home tied to alleged illegal activities involving the compound semaglutide.
Several items were confiscated for detailed TGA analysis.
The raid is part of a broader probe into the unauthorised creation, distribution, and international sale of prescription medicines, spotlighted by unsolicited medicine advertisements sent to medical professionals globally.
The TGA had identified adverse reactions among patients receiving this medication by mail.
Prof Anthony Lawler, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care and TGA head, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, "not only have health professionals been duped into believing this was a legitimate pharmacy, but they have then referred their patients to have their prescriptions filled".
"Some patients have also suffered additional medical issues caused by this substance."
Prof Lawler emphasised the importance of vigilance among healthcare providers regarding unsolicited advertisements, especially via fax from unknown online sources.
"I would also recommend health practitioners to exercise deep caution...clinical judgement should be used in these cases, recognising that there may be elevated clinical risk for patients where medicines are not assessed by the TGA for safety, quality and efficacy," he added, affirming the agency's commitment to thorough investigation and legal action against any law violations.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 08 Apr 24
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 08 Apr 24
