Check your medication: some Semaglutide and Tirzepatide products have been recalled
South Africa’s three health regulators: the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC), and the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) have issued a strong warning against the continued use, prescription, or dispensing of specific iDEXIS Semaglutide and Tirzepatide products that were recalled in June 2026.
Which products are affected?
The warning applies to:
- iDEXIS Semaglutide
- iDEXIS Tirzepatide
- iDEXIS Semaglutide/Tirzepatide combination products
According to SAHPRA, these products have been classified under a Class I, Type A recall. This is the highest level of recall, reserved for products that may pose a serious risk to patient safety.
What does this mean for patients?
If you are currently using one of the recalled iDEXIS products:
- Do not continue using it without speaking to your treating doctor or pharmacist.
- Do not stop prescribed diabetes or weight-management treatment without medical advice, as doing so may also carry health risks.
- Contact the doctor or specialist who prescribed your medication to discuss safe alternatives and your next steps.
The recall does not apply to all Semaglutide or Tirzepatide medicines. Patients using registered products supplied through legitimate channels should continue taking their medication unless advised otherwise by a doctor/healthcare provider.
Why were these products recalled?
SAHPRA says its investigation identified serious safety and regulatory concerns relating to the manufacture and supply of the recalled products. Earlier inspections found significant regulatory non-compliance, leading to enforcement action and the recall.
The regulators emphasises that any healthcare professional who continues to prescribe, dispense, or keep stock of these recalled products could face disciplinary action under South African medicines legislation because they would knowingly be placing patients at risk.
A reminder: Always check where your medicines come from.
GLP-1 medicines such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are more popular than ever and are being used by many for both diabetes management and weight loss. That increased demand has also highlighted the importance of ensuring medicines come from regulated, authorised sources.
If you’re ever unsure about a medication you’ve been prescribed, don’t rely on social media or online discussions alone. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist, and ask whether the medicine is registered with SAHPRA. Your health is too important to take chances with.
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