Are There Still Semaglutide Shortages?

Novo Nordisk recently announced that brand-name semaglutide manufactured as Ozempic® and WeGovy®  is no longer in shortage. This news may cause concern for those who rely on the drug to manage their diabetes. Despite this announcement, patients need not panic. The FDA is in the process of evaluating whether the drug is widely available. 

Are you in need of semaglutide and unsure of its availability? Read on.

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Key Takeaways

• Ozempic® shortage is the natural response of suppliers to the unexpected demand increase. 
• The FDA still needs to make a determination if the drug is no longer on shortage. 
• If the drug is not longer on shortage restrictions may be placed on compounding this medication. 

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Current Semaglutide Supply: Availability and Market Status

Demand for  Ozempic®, which along with diet and exercise, is proven to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. Demand may have caused shortages along with production limitations. 

When a drug is on shortage, as determined by the FDA,  compounding the medication is allowed. Once the shortage is remediated, there are restrictions on compounding the medication.

Ozempic® has become a well-known drug in recent years due to its effectiveness in managing Type-2 diabetes as well as weight management. 

Semaglutide Shortage Origins: Factors Behind Supply Disruptions

There were two reasons behind the semaglutide shortage.

• Firstly, there was a demand increase and shortage due to prescriptions for weight management. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only recently approved medications with semaglutide for weight management. Gaining ground as a treatment for weight management, semaglutide’s increasing prescriptions have led to a shortage of supply.
• Secondly, producing semaglutide is complex and time-consuming as it requires specialized equipment and skilled labor. Semaglutide is manufactured in specific conditions and requires stringent quality control checks to ensure its safety and efficacy. So, it may not be possible to react quickly to demand fluctuations and increase production accordingly. This limitation makes it challenging for pharmaceutical companies to meet the surge in demand, resulting in supply disruptions.

Those two factors combined caused a semaglutide shortage. However, those who have already been prescribed semaglutide for its approved indications, such as type 2 diabetes, have been requested to keep their prescribing behavior consistent and not stockpile the medication. This helps ensure that there is enough supply for both existing and new patients in need.

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Wegovy® Alternatives: Options and Strategies During Shortages

Shortage can be difficult for patients and healthcare professionals. In the case of semaglutide, patients may worry about not being able to continue their weight management treatment plan or having to switch medications.

We recommend consulting with a licensed healthcare provider for alternative options and strategies during the shortage. 

The good news is that the active ingredient in Wegovy®, semaglutide, is available in compounded forms. Compounded options tmay be prescribed by licensed healthcare providers upon determining eligibility. Additionally, there may be other weight management medication options on the market that may be suitable alternatives for those who have been using semaglutide for weight loss.

Compounded semaglutide is created by compounding pharmacies. This may be a viable option for those who are unable to access Wegovy® during a shortage. However, it is important to consult with a licensed healthcare provider before making any changes in medication.

Try Eden is a platform which allows you to connect with licensed healthcare providers who can help you determine, post-consultation, whether weight management medications such as GLP-1 is the right option to achieve your metabolic health goals. Try Eden’s licensed healthcare providers work with patients and to create customized treatment plans that fit individual needs and preferences.

We recommend that you purchase compounded semaglutide only from a reputable and licensed compounding pharmacy via a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. 

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Suggestion #1. Find Alternatives

A solution during a medication shortage may be find alternatives if suggested by your provider. For Wegovy®, this may include exploring compounded semaglutide or other weight management medications. For example, you can speak with your licensed healthcare provider about Liraglutide (Saxenda®), another GLP-1 receptor agonist that may help with weight management.

Other options may include naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave®) and phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia®). However, these medications may have different dosing regimens and potential side effects. Therefore, it is crucial to discuss your potential options with a licensed healthcare provider before making any changes in medication.

You should never trust unauthorized sources claiming to offer Wegovy®. These may be counterfeit medications that may pose serious health risks. Always consult with your licensed healthcare provider before making any changes in medication. 

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Suggestion #2. Prioritize Healthy Habits

While finding semaglutide alternatives may be a temporary solution, it is important to prioritize healthy habits for sustainable weight management. This may include incorporating regular physical activity, following a balanced and nutritious diet, managing stress levels, and getting enough sleep.

Considering Ozempic's® and Wegovy® mechanism is to help regulate appetite and reduce food intake, it is important to work on building healthy eating habits. This may include mindful eating, planning meals and snacks, and seeking support from a registered dietitian or therapist.

Additionally, finding physical activities that you enjoy and can stick to long-term may aid in weight management without relying solely on medication. This may include regular walks, cycling, swimming, or joining a fitness class.

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Suggestion #3. Seek Support

If you are struggling with managing your weight during a medication shortage for Wegovy®, do not hesitate to seek support from licensed healthcare providers or support groups. They can provide guidance and resources for healthy habits. 

Furthermore, it is important to address any underlying emotional or psychological factors contributing to weight management difficulties. Seeking therapy or counseling may be beneficial in managing stress, emotional eating, and other emotional health triggers that may impact weight management.

By prioritizing healthy habits and seeking support, you can continue to manage your weight effectively without solely relying on medication.

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Where to Buy Weight Management Medications

Try Eden is a platform connecting patients with licensed healthcare providers, who can help you determine whether or not compounded semaglutide is the right option for your metabolic health journey. Licensed healthcare providers on Try Eden can provide any necessary guidance or adjustments during the shortage.

To ensure the safe use of compounded semaglutide, you will first be checked for any health conditions and other medications you are currently taking. Your provider will then discuss the best dosage option for you based on your individual needs.

One option is compounded semaglutide, which contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic®. This may be a good alternative, if so prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider.

If injections are not your preferred treatment method, compounded oral semaglutide options may also available. These maybe prescribed by your healthcare provider and ordered through pharmacies.

Check Ozempic®'s availability.

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‌Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects, or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

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Semaglutide Shortages: Final Thoughts

Novo Nordisk's Ozempic® is a medication for individuals with type 2 diabetes and those suffering from obesity, and the recent shortages may have caused concerns for many. However, alternatives may be discussed with your licensed healthcare provider.

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