Two Charged in Counterfeit Ozempic Scheme

Federal prosecutors charged Swapnadip Roy, 33, and Vicky Ramancha, 37, with operating a scheme to sell counterfeit Ozempic to distributors nationwide. A federal grand jury in Florida handed down charges including conspiracy and smuggling.

The alleged operation bypassed regulated U.S. markets, potentially exposing residents to ineffective or harmful counterfeit drugs. The charges highlight federal efforts to protect public health from illicit pharmaceutical networks.

Prosecutors say Roy and Ramancha sold bogus versions of Ozempic, a medication for Type 2 diabetes and weight management, at discounted prices to distributors. Between July 2023 and April 2024, the defendants reportedly smuggled and sold thousands of fake units sourced from unauthorized manufacturers in China. The scheme included counterfeit packaging, inserts, pen labels and needles.

The operation continued even after the FDA seized counterfeit Ozempic in December 2023 and issued a public warning.

Roy was extradited from Italy and made his initial appearance in Tampa. Acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas stated that infiltrating the U.S. drug supply with counterfeit products is a direct threat to public health. Christopher Murray, assistant U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida, affirmed the commitment to protecting Americans from counterfeit prescription drugs.

If convicted, Roy and Ramancha each face a maximum penalty of 71 years in prison. Federal authorities continue their investigation into the distribution network.