Understanding the Wegovy Shortage
Wegovy is a popular new prescription weight loss medication that has been in short supply at many pharmacies. The injectable semaglutide drug, approved by the FDA in 2021, has proven very effective at helping overweight or obese patients lose significant amounts of weight.
What is Causing the Wegovy Shortage?
There are a few key factors driving the low Wegovy stock:
- High consumer demand - Many patients interested in weight loss are requesting Wegovy.
- Celebrity influence - High profile figures openly using semaglutide increases demand.
- Off-label use - People without obesity getting prescriptions to lose weight.
- Manufacturing issues - Company has struggled to accelerate production.
When Will More Wegovy Be Available?
The manufacturer Novo Nordisk has reported Wegovy supply will likely remain constrained through much of 2023 due to high demand. They are working to increase production capacity to get more doses to pharmacies as quickly as possible.
Finding Wegovy In Stock Near You
Checking availability at local pharmacies directly by phone is currently the best approach amid widespread shortages of semaglutide drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic. Be prepared for the possibility of waitlists.
Call Local Pharmacies to Ask About Stock
Call or visit retail pharmacies, compounding pharmacies, and specialty mail-order pharmacies in your region. Ask each location outright:
- "Do you have Wegovy currently in stock?"
- "Are you expecting more doses to be available soon?"
- "Do you offer waitlists for when more Wegovy arrives?"
Compile contact details of all pharmacies with availability or waitlists to check back periodically on restock status.
Searching Pharmacy Inventory Databases
Some online pharmacy inventory trackers compile real-time stock data, though mainly for retail chain locations. Checking major pharmacy's databases could indicate availability of Wegovy nearby.
However, inventory levels displayed online are not always guaranteed or fully up-to-date. Calling ahead is still wise to confirm in-stock doses before visiting any pharmacy expecting to purchase Wegovy same day.
Other Semaglutide Options During Shortages
While Wegovy specifically remains in short supply into 2023, some alternative semaglutide products offer similar effectiveness for weight management and may prove more readily available nearby.
1. Ozempic
Ozempic injections contain the same semaglutide medicine as Wegovy. The FDA has approved Ozempic for controlling high blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, but not specifically for weight loss.
However, Ozempic often produces substantial appetite suppression and weight loss benefits for diabetic and non-diabetic patients alike. Like Wegovy, Ozempic dosing starts lower and increases gradually over time.
2. Semglee
Recently approved Semglee is a biosimilar version of semaglutide expected to help meet demand. Early clinical trials showed Semglee and Wegovy resulted in nearly equal weight reduction over 68 weeks for patients with obesity or overweight.
So when searching for "Wegovy near me", ask pharmacies about availability of all semaglutide products - Ozempic and Semglee as well.
Eligibility and Prescriptions for Wegovy
Keep in mind that a valid prescription from a licensed medical provider is still required to purchase semaglutide drugs like Wegovy, even when in stock. Typical patient criteria include:
- Adults 18 years or older
- Body mass index (BMI) 30 kg/m2 or higher (or 27 kg/m2 or higher with an obesity-related condition)
- A 6-month weight loss program trial without success
Talk to your doctor to determine if Wegovy or other semaglutides are appropriate medical weight loss options for your health profile and body goals.
FAQs
Is Wegovy better than Ozempic for weight loss?
Wegovy and Ozempic contain the same active drug, semaglutide. Both medications lead to nearly equal weight loss and appetite suppression. Wegovy doses can be higher, but Ozempic is still very effective.
How can I get prescribed Wegovy online?
Some telehealth platforms offer online medical evaluations for anti-obesity medications including Wegovy. Doctors on these virtual visits can assess your health data, determine if you meet eligibility criteria, and electronically prescribe semaglutide if appropriate.
Does insurance cover Wegovy?
Many major insurance providers do cover Wegovy, often with prior authorization from your doctor confirming medical necessity. But coverage varies greatly between specific health plans. Check with your insurance directly about possible Wegovy coverage.
When will the Wegovy shortage end?
The Wegovy manufacturer Novo Nordisk has said broad supply constraints likely continue through the first half of 2023 before stabilization by year's end. They are actively working to increase production to meet ongoing high consumer demand.
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.
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