Fake Diabetes Products Flood Canadian Market, Experts Sound Alarm
A new wave of fake diabetes medications and gadgets is sweeping across Canada, and experts are urging everyone to stay alert. From bogus blood sugar monitors to miracle “GLP-1 oral drops,” these scams are everywhere online—and they’re putting people’s health at risk.
Scams Targeting People With Diabetes
Diabetes Canada has seen a sharp rise in calls and emails from people who have spotted or even bought these fake products. The scams often look convincing, using official logos from Diabetes Canada, the Canadian government, and Obesity Canada to trick buyers.
Laura Syron, President and CEO of Diabetes Canada, shared her concern: “As someone living with Type 2 diabetes, I know how upsetting it is to be misled by products that promise to help, but turn out to be scams.”
False Endorsements and Dangerous Claims
The fake products range from unauthorized smartwatches that claim to monitor blood sugar without a finger prick, to supplements falsely advertised as GLP-1 alternatives for weight loss. Some even create entire fake websites pretending to be linked to Diabetes Canada or Obesity Canada.
Obesity Canada has also spoken out after a company illegally used its logo and photos of its founder to sell a fake supplement. “Obesity Canada does not endorse any commercial products, supplements, or programs,” the organization stated. “Quick fixes and miracle cures are not only unethical—they’re dangerous.”
Health Canada Issues Safety Alerts
Last year, Health Canada recalled unauthorized smartwatches that claimed to read blood glucose levels. The agency warns that these devices have not been tested for safety or accuracy. Using them could lead to incorrect readings, missed alerts, and serious health risks.
Health Canada stresses that no smartwatch can independently monitor blood sugar. Only use devices listed in the official Medical Devices Active Licence Listing (MDALL).
Protect Yourself: What You Can Do
Diabetes Canada urges everyone—patients, caregivers, and parents—to talk to their health-care provider before trying new medications or devices. Don’t trust ads or websites that promise quick fixes or use official-looking logos.
The organization has reported these scams to Health Canada and filed a formal complaint about misleading ads.
The Bottom Line
Fake diabetes products are on the rise in Canada, and the risks are real. Always double-check before buying, and rely on advice from trusted health professionals. Your health is too important to trust to a scam.
