What are Ozempic and Mounjaro?
Both belong to a new generation of medications known as GLP-1 analogs, a hormone that regulates blood sugar and energy metabolism. Their impact has been so significant that they are now considered a revolution in treating metabolic diseases like obesity.
According to infectious disease specialist Alejandro Macías, these drugs “work quite well for weight loss, but they should be a last resort.” In a video posted on his social media, he clarifies that the ideal approach should first involve diet, exercise, and medical supervision.
Expert Opinions
According to an article published in the UNAM Gazette in 2024, endocrinologist Sergio Alberto Mendoza Álvarez acknowledged the value of these medications but warned that they should be part of a comprehensive therapeutic approach that includes healthy eating, physical activity (at least 150 minutes per week), and, if necessary, emotional support.
“The most interesting thing is that when GLP-1 analogs are used for this purpose, glucose levels, triglycerides, and cholesterol improve. So, these medications should be used alongside dietary changes, exercise, and sometimes cognitive-behavioral therapy in the toolkit against obesity,” he stated.
A Booming Market
According to data from Espacio Químico – Radar Farmacéutico, the GLP-1 drug market, which includes Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, is projected to surpass $100 billion by 2030. Currently, new oral formulations and more potent combinations are under development.
Moreover, their use is being explored in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and NASH (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease).
Mexico ranks sixth in the world for active patents related to GLP-1 (468), indicating a high level of commercial interest nationally.
Popularity vs. Counterfeits: Cofepris Alert
The high demand for these drugs has also led to counterfeit cases. On June 17, 2025, Mexico’s Federal Commission for Protection against Health Risks (Cofepris) issued a health alert about counterfeit versions of Ozempic in various presentations and lots:
Lots like PP5K617, PP7K381, PP5M797, and others were originally intended for Colombia or do not exist in official records.
Some counterfeit products had non-existent serial numbers or altered labels. According to Cofepris, illegal sales were detected on unauthorized websites and platforms at significantly lower prices.
“These products do not guarantee quality, safety, or effectiveness and pose a health risk,” Cofepris warned, urging against purchasing medications on social media or without a doctor’s prescription.
Cofepris also cautioned about packaging irregularities and storage conditions, recommending that any adverse reactions be reported immediately through the pharmacovigilance system.
Scientific Interest and Clinical Development
Interest in these treatments is also growing academically:
- Over the past decade, 32,410 scientific articles have been published on GLP-1, with a peak of 4,594 articles in 2024.
- 1,313 clinical studies are underway, primarily with medications (785), but also with dietary supplements, medical devices, and behavioral therapies.
$21 million in US funding and €40 million from Horizon Europe have been allocated for research, according to ClinicalTrials and Horizon Europe reports.
Are They for Everyone?
Although promising, these medications are not “magic” and still have side effects. In the AFP agency’s article from earlier this year, “Ozempic, Mounjaro: Promising Medications Beyond Obesity,” it is advised that observed benefits against diseases like Alzheimer’s, addictions, or metabolic disorders do not imply causality and still need confirmation through formal clinical trials.
“Biology is complex, and GLP-1 receptors do not control a single mechanism,” explained epidemiologist Ziyad Al Aly, who participated in one of the largest studies on these medications.
