The Hidden Cost of Dupes

The Rise of the 'Compound Dupes'

Clinical trials are now showing that GLP-1 medications can lead to significant weight loss, helping people to reduce their appetite. Because of this, the demand has been outweighing supply.

This gap was initially filled by compounding pharmacies using an exemption to create replica versions. But from late 2024, the Australian Government moved to ban these replicas.

Despite this, ‘dupes’ continue to flow through overseas websites and unregulated online clinics.

The Dangers: What’s Really Inside?

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) recently sent out a safety warning to the health community that showed shocking results.

Laboratory testing of several ‘off-brand’ GLP-1 products imported into Australia revealed that many contained no active GLP-1 ingredients at all.

According to recent TGA findings, products marketed under names like STDEI GLP-1 Weight Loss Oral Solution and various ‘Herbal GLP-1’ drops were found to be completely counterfeit.

Find a more detailed list here.

"Australians currently using products, particularly prescription medicines obtained from overseas or online, should refer to the multiple safety alerts and advisories issued by the TGA and speak with their health professional about the right option for their circumstance to ensure their safety," warns the TGA.

The risks of using these off-brand medications include:

• Contamination: Lack of sterile manufacturing conditions can lead to serious harm.
• Inaccurate dosing: Getting too much or too little of an active ingredient can lead to dangerous blood glucose changes.
• No Medical Supervision: Using these products without a health professional could mean ignoring potential side effects. Some side effects listed are:
  • Pancreatitis
  • Gallstones
  • Changes in mental health.

Read more about the risks.

Why This Matters Now

The stakes are higher than just a failed diet. In Victoria, the number of people between 21 and 40 living with type 2 diabetes has increased by 49% over the last decade.

While weight loss is a critical tool in managing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes, the use of ‘off brand’ drugs undermine clinical care.

Diabetes Victoria CEO Glen Noonan recently welcomed the Federal Government's commitment to subsidising medications like Wegovy  for eligible Australians.  

"Making weight loss medicines more affordable is critical to reducing the impact of type 2 diabetes."

However, he maintains that these medicines work best only when combined with professional medical support and healthy lifestyle changes.

Don't Risk It

The message from Melbourne’s leading health authorities and experts is clear. If the price for weight loss medication seems too good to be true, it likely is. Using ‘dupes’ isn't just a cheap alternative; it’s a risk to your long-term health.

If you are navigating the complexities of weight management or diabetes management, do not do it alone.

Get the latest evidence-based health information and personalised support from the experts.

Whether you’re at risk of diabetes, looking for sustainable weight management or living with diabetes, our diabetes nurse educators and dietitians provide the clinical expertise you need to stay safe and healthy.

Contact Diabetes Care Plus

Book an appointment with the Diabetes Care Plus team to get advice on pre-diabetes and other diabetes management related matters.