TGA Warns of Health Risks from Counterfeit Botox Vials

Rowan Ashford

Published: January 27, 2026 7:17 PM ET

Australians are being strongly cautioned about the dangers associated with counterfeit Botox vials circulating in the country. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has confirmed that certain vials, specifically those with the batch number C8478C4, are not authentic Botox products.

Health Risks from Counterfeit Botox

The TGA has reiterated that these counterfeit products have not undergone any quality, safety, or efficacy evaluations. The organization considers these fake vials to pose a serious public health risk.

Continued Concerns

This is not the first time the TGA has issued warnings about counterfeit Botox. A previous alert was made in July of last year. Despite the warnings, these fraudulent vials remain available through overseas websites, rather than from legitimate Australian pharmacies.

Batch Number: C8478C4
Previous Warning Issued: July of last year

Importance of Legitimate Sources

The TGA emphasizes the critical need to purchase medications from verified sources. Botox and other botulinum toxin products are classified as prescription-only in Australia, which means they can only be obtained through a licensed pharmacy.

While Australians with valid prescriptions can import prescription medications for personal use, counterfeit products are strictly prohibited from being brought into the country. The dangers posed by these fake items only underline the importance of sourcing medications responsibly.

What to Do if You Have Counterfeit Botox

For those who have obtained counterfeit Botox, the TGA advises taking the vials to a local pharmacy for safe disposal. Additionally, anyone suspecting the presence of counterfeit medications is encouraged to report their concerns.

Reports can be made either through the TGA’s online platform or by contacting them at 1800 020 653.

Always consult a healthcare provider or a registered pharmacy if you have any doubts about the legitimacy of your medications. Staying informed is essential for ensuring your safety and well-being.