Fake Slimming Drug Racket Busted in Gurgaon, Tirzepatide Marketed as Japanese Weight-Loss Shot

Investigators confirmed that the branding was designed to make the drug appear more authentic and imported, thereby attracting consumers seeking rapid weight-loss solutions.

According to officials, the accused was operating the illegal setup from a flat in Sector 62, Gurgaon, where counterfeit injections resembling Mounjaro were allegedly prepared, packaged, labelled, and distributed. Authorities suspect the operation was part of a wider network supplying fake obesity drugs across multiple cities.

Investigators revealed that apart from duplicating Mounjaro, the accused had also developed his own tirzepatide-based injection under the brand name “Toneup”. Police said the product had not received approval from either state or central drug regulators. To increase its market appeal, it was allegedly promoted as a Japanese-imported formulation.

Drug control officials recovered packaging materials, labels, cartridges, and injection pens during raids conducted at the flat. Authorities further alleged that raw materials were sourced from China through online platforms, while near-authentic packaging was created using advanced printing methods.

The racket came to light after officials intercepted a vehicle in DLF Phase IV and seized counterfeit injections reportedly worth more than Rs 56 lakh. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of two individuals allegedly linked to the illegal trade.

According to a recent media report in The Times of India, health authorities have issued warnings against purchasing unverified weight-loss injections online or through unauthorized sellers, highlighting the serious health risks associated with counterfeit medicines. Experts warned that fake injectable drugs may contain incorrect ingredients, unsafe dosages, or contaminants that could lead to severe complications.