Growing Concerns Over Smuggling of 'Barbiedrogen' Between Norway and Sweden
Authorities are cracking down on the smuggling of Melanotan 2, or 'Barbiedrogen', across the Norwegian border amid rising health risks.
Key Points
- • Melanotan 2, known as 'Barbiedrogen', is illegally smuggled across the Norwegian border.
- • Authorities have seized over 900 units of Melanotan 2 in Norway in 2024.
- • The drug poses serious health risks, including potential skin cancer and other severe side effects.
- • Legal discrepancies in Sweden complicate enforcement efforts against Melanotan 2.
Authorities are increasingly alarmed by the rising smuggling of Melanotan 2, known colloquially as 'Barbiedrogen', across the Norwegian border. This illegal substance, marketed as a miracle nasal spray for accelerated tanning, poses significant health risks and is subject to strict legality measures in both countries.
Since 2024, Norwegian customs officials have reported substantial seizures of Melanotan 2, including a notable confiscation of 110 nasal sprays in March 2024. Per Kristian Grandahl, head of the Norwegian Customs, emphasized the scale of smuggling, stating, "I can hardly believe the extent to which these smugglers will go." Overall, customs in Norway seized over 900 units of Melanotan 2 throughout 2024, underlining the urgency of addressing this illicit trade.
In Sweden, the situation remains complex. While it is illegal to sell Melanotan 2, it is not illegal to possess it, resulting in limited enforcement capabilities for Swedish customs. In 2024, only five units were seized owing to this legal ambiguity. Elin Maria Bergsten, an investigator at the Swedish Medical Products Agency, highlighted the dangers of Melanotan 2, stating, "It is completely uncontrolled; you do not know what it contains," pointing out the potential for severe side effects like nausea, vomiting, and increased risks of skin cancer due to unknown ingredients.
Authorities in both countries acknowledge the rampant advertisement of Melanotan 2 on social media platforms like Instagram, making it easier for users to access this dangerous product. The Swedish Medical Products Agency is urging individuals to refrain from using unregulated substances like Melanotan 2, noting that their effects, especially long-term, are largely unknown.
As the smuggling continues, both Norwegian and Swedish authorities are being pressed to strengthen regulations and increase awareness about the significant health risks associated with this illegal drug.