In brief
Rising demand for Ozempic has led to a spate of armed robberies, reflecting societal pressures and affordability challenges.
In São Paulo, Brazil, pharmacies face a wave of robberies centered on weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda. As body image concerns rise in this bustling metropolis, criminals are taking advantage of the soaring demand for these pricey medications, which range from $120 to $190, while the average income is around $300.During a night shift, pharmacist David Fernando was confronted by a gunman asking for money and the coveted refrigerated meds. This isn't an isolated incident; the same pharmacy was previously robbed twice for these drugs in late 2024. As the crime rate increases, pharmacies are enhancing security measures. In one case, a police intervention during an Ozempic robbery led to a shootout, injuring a bystander. With escalating tensions, pharmacists now operate under constant threat, leaving them to navigate the complexities of rising medication demands and safety concerns.
