Kosovo’s Ozempic Craze Sparks Health Alarms as Demand Soars

In Kosovo, the diabetes medication Ozempic has become a popular weight-loss solution, despite serious health warnings and regulatory concerns. Originally approved for type 2 diabetes management, Ozempic is now widely used off-label for slimming purposes, often without medical supervision.

Influencer Tringa Kadriu, 29, exemplifies this trend, aiming to shed 15–16 kilograms in two months using Ozempic, followed by fitness routines. She notes the drug’s easy availability in pharmacies, even without a prescription, and reports that pharmacists sometimes advise on dosage increases.

The drug’s popularity has led to a price surge, with monthly doses rising from €75–80 to €130–140. Despite its appetite-suppressing effects, health professionals warn of potential side effects, including thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, gastroparesis, and bowel obstruction. Dr. Merita Emini-Sadiku, head of the endocrinology clinic at Kosovo’s university hospital, emphasizes the risks associated with unsupervised use.

Regulatory bodies face challenges in controlling Ozempic’s distribution, with only 20 pharmaceutical inspectors overseeing approximately 1,500–1,600 private pharmacies. Journalist Bujar Vitija highlights the lack of comprehensive health data, complicating enforcement efforts.

As over 57% of Kosovo’s population is overweight, the allure of a quick weight-loss solution like Ozempic is strong. However, health experts urge caution, stressing the importance of medical guidance and awareness of potential health risks.