Novo Nordisk developed Ozempic for use in treating type 2 diabetes. Now they report experiencing a worldwide shortage of its product.
Some physicians prescribe Ozempic to patients with normal BMI to help them shed excess pounds – an off-label prescription. Others are turning to telehealth companies offering pricey monthly subscription plans with Ozempic or other medications as part of the package.
Online Pharmacy
Ozempic, the weight loss medication released in 2017, has quickly earned itself a prominent presence since its initial launch. The injectable medicine helps people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels more effectively while simultaneously encouraging weight loss for overweight or obese individuals who don’t have diabetes. Ozempic’s active ingredient, semaglutide, has been FDA-approved and should be used alongside a healthy diet and exercise to decrease blood sugar and make people feel full.
Novo Nordisk is currently experiencing a shortage of its injection due to increased off-label use for weight management. However, people with type 2 diabetes should still receive coverage through their insurance plans.
People can obtain an Ozempic prescription online through telemedicine companies like PlushCare. By scheduling a virtual appointment with a doctor on PlushCare’s platform, individuals will discuss their goals and symptoms while reviewing medical history – and then be sent an electronic prescription mailed directly to local pharmacies.
Telemedicine
Ozempic (semaglutide) is an effective medication designed to control diabetes and promote weight loss. As part of an emerging group of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which simulate the natural hormone found in our gut that regulates blood sugar and signals when we’re full, clinical trials have demonstrated that patients taking Ozempic’s once-weekly injection with a healthy diet and exercise alone can effectively lose weight.
Although Phentermine offers many benefits, it should not be seen as a magic weight-loss solution, according to Northwestern Medicine physician specializing in obesity medicine Veronica R. Johnson MD. According to Johnson, Phentermine works best when combined with exercise and diet to produce results.
Before prescribing Ozempic, your doctor will conduct a physical exam and review recent blood work to detect thyroid disorders or any health concerns, pancreatitis, and gallbladder disease that might reduce its efficacy and any medical conditions that make a reasonable response less likely.
Mail-In Prescription
Ozempic is taking the internet by storm as a GLP-1 receptor agonist drug to treat type 2 diabetes and help with weight loss while working well with diet and exercise.
Ozempic has proven more successful than placebo at helping those with type 2 diabetes shed pounds, according to research studies. But this treatment alone cannot produce results – those starting it must make lifestyle adjustments for optimal results.
Ozempic prescriptions can be easily acquired online via some telehealth services, but it’s essential that you research your provider’s credentials first, advises Dr. Johnson. She suggests consulting a PCP experienced in managing type 2 diabetes, treating obesity-related health issues, and inquiring about prior authorization from insurance companies, which could take several days and affect monthly cost estimates. Novo Nordisk offers a discount program for uninsured patients that may help lower the price of Ozempic.
Local Pharmacy
Now that type 2 diabetes medications are in short supply, and more Americans than ever are obese, demand for the weight loss drug Ozempic has skyrocketed. Commonly referred to as semaglutide, Ozempic produces insulin to lower blood sugar while suppressing appetite; unfortunately, many who hold prescriptions cannot access their injectable medication due to limited availability at pharmacies.
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and similar drugs, warned pharmacies earlier this year that counterfeit versions of injection pens were being sold through them – they appeared identical to their genuine product. They could often be found being purchased from legitimate orders filled by pharmacies.
Patients may be able to obtain medication from their primary care physician (PCP), who has access to their medical history and can prescribe the correct dose; however, many insurers require prior approval of drugs before coverage begins – an often time-consuming process which can take several days depending on how complex a patient’s medical history or other conditions may be.