MFDA warns of legal action over illegal sale of weight loss medicines
MFDA has warned that medicines can only be imported and sold by registered parties and must be on the Approved Drug List. The authority is concerned about unauthorized sale of medications like Semaglutide and Azelaic Acid on social media without prescriptions. Legal action will be taken against parties importing, selling or advertising medicines without proper authorization.
Pharmacies near IGMH
The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has issued a strong warning over the unauthorized sale of medications, including weight loss drugs, stating that legal action will be taken against individuals or entities engaged in such practices.
In a statement released on Monday, MFDA stressed that the importation and sale of medicines for commercial purposes in the Maldives are permitted only for parties that are registered and authorized by the authority, in full compliance with national medicinal regulations.
The authority further clarified that all medicines brought into the country must be registered and listed on the Approved Drug List, which specifies medications authorized for importation and sale within the Maldives.
Despite these regulations, MFDA reported an increasing trend of various medications being imported and promoted on social media and online platforms without the required permits. The authority specifically pointed out that Semaglutide, a medication primarily prescribed for blood sugar management, is being marketed as a weight loss drug. In addition to this, Azelaic Acid, which is used to treat clinical skin conditions, is being promoted as a cosmetic product for skin brightening and enhancement.
MFDA emphasized that such medications should only be used when prescribed by a specialist doctor for specific medical conditions. It also reiterated that pharmacies are strictly prohibited from dispensing these medicines without a valid prescription.
The authority warned that the use of these drugs without proper medical advice and supervision could result in serious and unforeseen health complications.
MFDA concluded by stating that it will take necessary legal action against any parties found importing, selling, or advertising medicinal products without the required authorization.
