[Life] Pharmacies and Clinics Illegally Selling 'Slimming Needles' - 124 Cases in 2 Years, Fines Exceeding 3.5 Million NTD
bellala 央廣3h ago
The use of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs, commonly known as 'slimming needles,' for weight loss is very popular. From 2024 to the present, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the Ministry of Health and Welfare has investigated a total of 124 cases of illegal sales by pharmacies or medical institutions, including non-pharmaceutical businesses engaging in pharmaceutical business and sales without prescriptions, resulting in fines totaling NT$3.555 million.
In recent years, GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs, commonly known as slimming needles, have become popular. In Taiwan, there are three approved ingredients for 'weight control': tirzepatide, semaglutide, and liraglutide. All are 'prescription drugs' that require a professional medical evaluation and prescription from a doctor, followed by dispensing by a pharmacist. However, many people still obtain slimming needles through online or private channels, creating opportunities for unscrupulous businesses. To address this, the FDA, in conjunction with local health bureaus, has strengthened inspections of medical institutions and pharmacies since 2024.
According to FDA statistics, from 2024 to June 11, 2026, 124 violations were discovered, with fines totaling NT$3.555 million. The violations include non-pharmaceutical businesses engaging in pharmaceutical business, drug dispensing not following standard operating procedures, selling prescription drugs without a prescription, failure to create medical records as required, and failure to document medication management in medical records.
Regarding online platforms, the FDA has collaborated with the Pharmacists Association of Taiwan, online platform operators, and the Taiwan Network Information Center (TWNIC). To date, 967 violating posts have been identified and subsequently removed from online platforms according to regulations. A total of 1197 posts advertising illegal drug sales on platforms like Facebook and Threads have been taken down, and 5 websites illegally selling drugs have been blocked.
Furthermore, in response to the chaos caused by illegally bringing GLP-1 class drugs, commonly known as slimming needles, into Taiwan, the FDA announced today that it will consult with the Directorate General of Customs to evaluate whether to list slimming needles as items requiring mandatory declaration upon entry or as key inspection items at the border.
Wang De-yuan, Deputy Director-General of the FDA, stated today that the illegal sources of slimming needles are mainly divided into two parts: those brought in by travelers themselves and those purchased through online packages. Plans are underway to consult with the Directorate General of Customs to assess whether to include GLP-1 class drugs in the scope of entry declaration management or list them as key border inspection items. This will involve evaluating relevant legal basis, implementation feasibility, and the impact on passenger customs clearance to strengthen border management and prevent illegal imports.
The FDA reminds the public that some slimming needles may be used for adolescents aged 12 and above after a doctor's evaluation, but most are still limited to adult use and must meet conditions such as BMI. If there is a need for medication, it is essential to consult a professional doctor through legal medical channels to ensure medication safety. (Editor: Chung Chin-lung)
Source Link: https://www.rti.org.tw/news?uid=3&pid=215521
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