In an effort to prevent shortages of the diabetes medication Ozempic, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has advised that the drug should only be prescribed to diabetes patients, not those solely seeking weight loss.
The EMA has noted that the high demand for Ozempic, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, has led to shortages across the European Union. This shortage has been exacerbated by the drug being prescribed for weight loss purposes.
Shortages Impacting Diabetes Patients
According to the EMA, the ongoing demand for Ozempic is likely to continue, potentially causing significant shortages for diabetes patients who rely on the medication.
While Ozempic is approved for the treatment of diabetes, another drug, Wegovy, which contains the same active ingredient semaglutide, is specifically approved for weight loss.
Novo Nordisk Adjusts Pricing Amid Supply Concerns
Denmark has also experienced shortages of Ozempic.
Although there are currently no supply issues, the Danish Medicines Agency emphasizes that doctors should prescribe Ozempic only to diabetes patients. Recently, Novo Nordisk significantly reduced the price of Ozempic, which previously cost the same as Wegovy.
This price reduction had led some patients using Wegovy to switch to Ozempic to save approximately 440 DKK (66 USD) per month.
