US FDA sends import alert to stop illegal imports of obesity drug ingredients

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration sent an import alert on Friday, aimed at stopping illegal imports of GLP-1 drug ingredients, used for weight loss and diabetes, from entering the domestic market from unverified sources.

The agency said it was aware that some patients are turning to compounded versions of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy and Eli Lilly's Zepbound, which are not approved by it. To protect patients who use compounded drugs, the "green list" alert will include ingredients from facilities the FDA has inspected or evaluated, it said.

The "green list" is part of the FDA's import alert system, identifying firms or products that have resolved compliance concerns and are not subject to automatic detention at the border.