Ozempic Shortage Leaves Diabetes Patients Seeking Alternatives

The Ozempic Shortage and Options for People With Diabetes

Ozempic, a brand name version of the diabetes medication semaglutide, has been making headlines lately. This injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist is approved by the FDA for treating type 2 diabetes, but it has also been embraced by celebrities and others looking to lose weight.

The increased interest in Ozempic for weight loss has led to shortages for those who truly need the medication to manage their diabetes. Read on to learn more about the Ozempic shortage, who is impacted, and what options people with diabetes have for managing their condition.

What is Causing the Ozempic Shortage?

Ozempic is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies specialized in diabetes care. The medication was first approved by the FDA in 2017 for glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

In 2021, Novo Nordisk received expanded approval from the FDA to market a higher dose of Ozempic (2 mg) for chronic weight management in adults who are overweight or obese. Another Novo Nordisk drug, Wegovy, contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic but is specifically intended for weight management.

Not long after, Ozempic and Wegovy started gaining attention for dramatic weight loss results in celebrities like Elon Musk and Kim Kardashian. Speculation mounted that they were taking the medications off label for cosmetic weight loss purposes.

Demand for the drugs skyrocketed, with new prescriptions increasing by 1,100% in just one year. Novo Nordisk has reported shortages of both Ozempic and Wegovy amid challenges ramping up manufacturing to meet the unexpected demand.

Who is Impacted by the Shortage?

While celebrities and others who want to lose weight may be disappointed by the Ozempic shortage, the brunt of the impact falls on the type 2 diabetes community. Nearly 1 in 10 Americans have type 2 diabetes, which increases the risk for complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, vision loss, heart disease, stroke, and amputations.

Without proper medication, people with diabetes can suffer consequences like:

• High blood sugar levels
• Increased HbA1c (a marker of long-term blood sugar control)
• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Frequent infections

For those whose diabetes is well-managed with Ozempic, the shortage could be life-disrupting. This makes it critical for patients to work with their doctor and explore alternate treatment options.

Why Might Someone Be Prescribed Ozempic?

Ozempic is prescribed alongside diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Heres a quick overview of how Ozempic works:

• It mimics an intestinal hormone called GLP-1 that is released after eating
• GLP-1 slows digestion and reduces appetite
• Ozempic binds to GLP-1 receptors, which stimulates insulin release and lowers glucagon secretion
• This combination of actions lowers blood sugar levels

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic offer some advantages over other diabetes medications:

• Low risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Promotes weight loss
• Taken once weekly by injection
• May reduce cardiovascular risks

For these reasons, Ozempic has become a popular treatment option prescribed by endocrinologists and primary care doctors. Patients with type 2 diabetes who have responded well to Ozempic are now having to explore alternatives amidst the shortage.

Treatment Options in Light of the Ozempic Shortage

If you currently take Ozempic for type 2 diabetes, dont panic yet. Speak with your physician about the shortage and to develop a treatment plan. They may be able to provide samples or help you get access through a patient assistance program.

However, be prepared that you may need to switch to an alternate medication. Here are some options your doctor may recommend:

Other GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Other drugs in the same medication class as Ozempic include:

• Trulicity - once weekly injection
• Victoza - daily injection
• Byetta - twice daily injection
• Rybelsus - pill taken daily

These all act on GLP-1 receptors like Ozempic. Your doctor can help determine if one may be an appropriate substitute for your needs.

SGLT2 Inhibitors

SGLT2 inhibitors like Invokana and Farxiga work in the kidneys to lower blood sugar by causing the body to excrete excess glucose in urine. They can be taken alone or paired with another medication like metformin.

Insulin

Some people with longstanding type 2 diabetes eventually require insulin therapy for blood sugar control. Modern insulins like Toujeo (glargine) and Tresiba (degludec) allow for once or twice daily dosing.

However, insulin does come with a higher risk of hypoglycemia than Ozempic and may lead to some weight gain.

Metformin

Metformin is generally considered the first-line medication for most people with type 2 diabetes. It works by reducing liver glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity.

While not as potent as GLP-1 drugs, metformin has a strong safety profile and does not lead to hypoglycemia. Taking a higher dose of metformin or adding another medication like a sulfonylurea may help during the Ozempic shortage.

Lifestyle Changes

No matter what medications you end up using, optimal diabetes management requires healthy lifestyle habits like:

• Following a balanced, diabetic-friendly diet
• Getting regular physical activity
• Reaching and maintaining a healthy body weight
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Managing stress

Work with a dietitian to develop meal plans that stabilize blood sugar. Aim for 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise like walking, cycling, or swimming. Check your blood sugar regularly to identify patterns and adapt your diet and activity.

What's Being Done to Address Shortages?

Novo Nordisk has acknowledged the challenges posed by Ozempic and Wegovy shortages. The company is investing over $2 billion to increase manufacturing capacity in the coming years.

However, supply is not expected to meet demand until at least mid-2023. Novo Nordisk is working with the FDA and healthcare providers to prioritize supply for patients with type 2 diabetes.

The FDA is also taking steps like allowing the importation of two early GLP-1 drugs, Byetta and Victoza, to help ease shortages. Prescription limitation programs have been implemented by some pharmacy chains.

While progress is being made, continued shortages in 2023 are likely. Staying flexible with treatment options and focusing on lifestyle habits are key to successfully managing type 2 diabetes throughout this period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it illegal to use Ozempic for weight loss?

The FDA has approved Ozempic for type 2 diabetes and Wegovy specifically for chronic weight management. Using Ozempic off-label solely for cosmetic weight loss purposes is not an approved indication. However, doctors may prescribe medications off-label at their discretion.

Are there risks to taking Ozempic for weight loss?

When used appropriately under medical supervision, Ozempic is generally safe and effective for weight loss. However, potential side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gallstones, pancreatitis, and thyroid tumors. It should not be used in those with a personal or family history of certain cancers.

How much does Ozempic cost without insurance?

The retail cash price for Ozempic currently ranges from around $900 to $1500 per months supply without insurance. However, prices can vary significantly between pharmacies. Prescription assistance programs may be available from the manufacturer.

Can I buy Ozempic from Canada or Mexico?

It is technically illegal to import prescription medications from other countries for personal use in the U.S. Anyone looking to access Ozempic or alternatives should speak to a licensed medical provider.

When will the Ozempic shortage end?

Novo Nordisk expects supply to remain constrained through the first half of 2023. Increased manufacturing capacity may allow for availability to catch up with demand in the latter part of the year. However, no guarantees have been made about when shortages will fully resolve.

The Bottom Line

The recent surge in interest for semaglutide products like Ozempic and Wegovy for weight management has led to shortages impacting diabetes patients. While frustrating, there are still options for managing type 2 diabetes safely and effectively.

Speak to your doctor about adjusting medications, focus on lifestyle habits, and stay hopeful for increased supply in the coming year. With the right treatment plan, people with diabetes can continue to thrive throughout the Ozempic shortage.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.