Weight-Loss Injection Pen Shortage Hits Brazilian Pharmacies

São Paulo, Brazil - A shortage of injectable weight-loss pens is gripping Brazilian pharmacies. The cause? A new Anvisa regulation requiring a prescription starting June 23rd, 2025. Pharmacies across the city are reporting empty shelves, with one owner, Ricardo Agostinho, stating, "Before the new rules, we already had a waiting list of over 30 people!" The video shows security footage of a pharmacy robbery, highlighting the desperation for these medications. The increased demand is also fueled by the off-label use of these diabetes medications for weight loss. An SBT News reporter, Simone Queiroz, observed the situation in a busy pharmacy, confirming the scarcity and the impact on patients. The new regulations aim to ensure safe and responsible use of these potent medications, but the immediate impact on patients is a concern.