Since the start of summer, officers at the port of Cincinnati have intercepted multiple unapproved shipments of weight loss drugs including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Trulicity. This trend has continued into fall with two more shipments seized.
On October 5, officers examined a shipment labeled as "cosmetic weight loss product." Inside were Mounjaro injectable pens in doses of 2.5mg, 5mg, and 7mg. The shipment originated from a pharmacy in the United Kingdom and was destined for an Ohio residence. The seizure was made under violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA).
Another shipment arrived on October 14 from Hong Kong containing 20 vials of Semaglutide 10 mg and 150 vials of Tirzepatide 30 mg. Valued domestically at $45,450, this shipment was also headed to an Ohio residence and subsequently seized by CBP.
Imported medications must comply with FDA standards for quality, safety, and effectiveness. Many online pharmacies fail to meet U.S. standards which can pose health risks to consumers who may receive inferior products that contain unknown ingredients or cause unusual side effects.
“These types of unapproved medications are common seizures our officers see on a regular basis,” said LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director Field Operations-Chicago. “Customs and Border Protection officers will continue to work with the trade industry and our consumer safety partners to intercept illicit and potentially dangerous products at our nation’s ports of entry.”
CBP enforces laws for partner agencies such as the FDA and collaborates to prevent illegal medication imports that threaten consumer health. More information about legitimate drug importation is available through the FDA.
Follow CBP on X @CBPChicago and @DFOChicago or visit their YouTube channel for insights into how CBP's Office of Field Operations secures national borders.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's largest law enforcement organization responsible for border management with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to protecting America across land, air, and sea while ensuring economic prosperity through secure travel and trade facilitation.
