Zepbound Copycats Persist Online Despite FDA Ban
March 21, 2025 — Despite a recent ban by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Zepbound, a weight loss medication linked to dangerous side effects, copies of the drug continue to surface online, raising concerns about consumer safety. The FDA’s action aimed to protect individuals from potentially harmful counterfeit versions of the drug, but reports suggest that unauthorized sellers are still marketing and distributing these copies to unsuspecting buyers.
Zepbound, originally marketed as a weight loss solution, was found to have severe cardiovascular and neurological risks, prompting the FDA to pull it from the market last month. However, counterfeit versions of the drug, often marketed with slightly altered names or deceptive packaging, continue to be available on various online marketplaces, social media platforms, and shady websites.
The Problem of Online Counterfeits
Many of the counterfeit products are marketed through social media ads and e-commerce websites, targeting individuals looking for quick weight loss solutions. These rogue sellers often exploit consumers’ desperation for weight loss with promises of easy results, bypassing FDA regulations and putting people at risk.
The FDA, in its official statement, emphasized that these copycat drugs do not undergo the necessary safety and efficacy tests. “We are committed to protecting consumers from potentially dangerous and unapproved products,” said FDA Commissioner Robert Califf. “These counterfeit versions of Zepbound pose significant health risks and are illegal.”
Challenges in Enforcement
One of the primary challenges in curbing the sale of counterfeit medications online is the sheer volume of illegal websites and sellers. Many of these platforms are hosted abroad, making it difficult for U.S. authorities to enforce the ban effectively. Additionally, some of the websites use sophisticated tactics, such as selling under different names or using misleading labeling, making it harder for consumers to identify the risks.
A Growing Concern for Public Health
Public health experts are sounding the alarm, noting that the sale of counterfeit drugs online is a growing issue, particularly in the realm of weight loss products. Dr. Anne M. Deaton, a professor of public health, warned, “The unregulated market for these types of drugs is dangerous. People are increasingly turning to the internet for quick fixes, unaware of the hidden dangers they face.”
Authorities are urging consumers to avoid purchasing medications from online sources unless they are prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. They also recommend reporting suspicious websites and sellers to the FDA or other regulatory bodies.
The Path Forward
The FDA has vowed to continue working with other law enforcement agencies and online platforms to shut down the sale of these counterfeit products. They are also pushing for stronger regulations and increased consumer education about the dangers of unapproved medications.
For now, the battle against Zepbound copycats remains ongoing, with public health experts and regulators continuing to warn consumers about the risks involved.
By: Satish Mehro| Health & Safety Correspondent
