FDA Announces End of Ozempic and Mounjaro Shortages

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that all doses of the GLP-1 drugs Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are currently available, marking a significant improvement in accessibility for patients. For the first time in months, both Mounjaro, a type 2 diabetes medication, and Zepbound, a weight loss drug, are fully stocked. However, semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, has remained on the FDA’s shortage list since March 2022, complicating access for some patients. Despite the availability of all doses of Ozempic, the lowest starting dose of Wegovy is still hard to find, according to Dr. Millard. The ongoing shortages, combined with limited insurance coverage and high out-of-pocket costs, have created barriers for many individuals seeking to initiate or maintain treatment with these medications. Patients often begin with lower doses to mitigate side effects, but sporadic supply issues can hinder their ability to continue treatment effectively. Dr. Dushay highlights that the lack of access to starter doses of Wegovy may force patients to switch medications based on insurance coverage, which can involve extensive paperwork and restrictions. This situation complicates the treatment landscape, as patients may be limited in their choices based on what their insurance will cover. For those not constrained by insurance or cost considerations, Dr. Jay recommends considering Wegovy, especially for individuals at high risk for heart disease, as it is FDA-approved for preventing heart attacks and strokes.