Running into difficulties finding your medication at the pharmacy can be frustrating, especially when it’s something as essential as Wegovy. If you’re one of the many people relying on this medication for weight management, here’s what you need to know about the Wegovy shortage, how it’s affecting patients, and what your options are if you can’t fill your prescription.
Is Wegovy in Short Supply?
Yes, there is currently a shortage of Wegovy, a brand name for the weight management drug semaglutide. The shortage has been ongoing as of fall 2024, due to high demand and manufacturing challenges. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed the shortage of semaglutide, which is available in various doses for managing weight loss in individuals with obesity.
Wegovy is available in five different doses, ranging from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg, and the availability can fluctuate week by week. Some weeks may see more availability of higher doses, while others may have more of the lower doses. This variation is based on the demand for each dose, making the situation unpredictable. Therefore, availability can change day by day.
Why is There a Shortage of Wegovy?
The main reason behind the Wegovy shortage is the increasing demand for the drug. As of 2024, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy, reports that more than 25,000 people start taking Wegovy each week. This surge in demand is partly due to the growing popularity of the medication as a weight-loss solution. Clinical studies have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss—up to 15% of body weight in about a year—further driving its demand.
Additionally, newer research indicates that GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide can also help reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease in individuals with obesity. As awareness of these benefits grows, more people are seeking out Wegovy for not just weight loss but also broader health benefits.
However, despite its popularity, manufacturing semaglutide is a complex and resource-intensive process. It’s a peptide that requires sophisticated and costly production, which makes it difficult to scale production quickly. While Novo Nordisk has been expanding its production capabilities, experts predict the shortage could persist at least through the end of 2024.
How Does the Wegovy Shortage Affect You?
If you find yourself unable to fill your Wegovy prescription, it can disrupt your weight management progress. Stopping the medication abruptly can lead to regaining the weight that was previously lost, which may hinder your long-term health goals.
Additionally, if you are forced to stop taking Wegovy and later restart at your original dose, you may experience side effects such as nausea, headaches, or digestive issues. This happens because reintroducing a high dose after a period of no medication can be jarring to your system. Gradual adjustments to dosage are typically recommended to minimize side effects, so it’s important to consult your doctor before resuming treatment.
What Should You Do If Wegovy Is Out of Stock?
If you’re unable to find Wegovy at your regular pharmacy, here are some steps to take:
- Check Other Pharmacies: Ask your pharmacist if they can check nearby pharmacies for availability. They may even be able to direct you to locations where Wegovy is in stock. However, you might need to call several pharmacies yourself.
- Switch Dosages: If your preferred dosage is unavailable, consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend switching to a different dose for the time being. For instance, if your usual dose is 1 mg, you may be advised to take 0.5 mg for a month.
- Alternative Medications: If Wegovy remains out of stock, your doctor may recommend a different GLP-1 agonist like Zepbound or Saxenda. These alternatives also target weight loss, but the dosing and side effects can vary, so switching may require adjustment. Keep in mind, these medications can also be in short supply, so availability isn’t guaranteed.
- Other Weight Loss Medications: If GLP-1 agonists aren’t an option, there are other FDA-approved weight loss medications, such as Phentermine (Adipex-P), Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate), Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion), and Orlistat (Xenical). While not as effective as Wegovy for weight loss, they may be viable options for managing your weight in the meantime. Talk to your provider about the best choice for your health needs.
The Bottom Line
The Wegovy shortage is primarily driven by increased demand for the medication, and it’s not expected to resolve quickly. If you’re affected by this shortage, don’t panic. There are several steps you can take, such as finding alternative pharmacies, adjusting your dosage, or considering other medications. Doctor consultation is needed before making any changes to your treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Wegovy Shortage
- How Do I Check If Wegovy Is Available?
To check if Wegovy is available at your local pharmacy, call ahead and inquire about stock availability. Many pharmacies can help by checking nearby locations for availability. However, if you’re facing difficulty finding Wegovy locally, you may want to consider exploring online ordering options.
One trusted option is Better You Rx, a pharmacy affiliate that partners with licensed Canadian pharmacies to provide a reliable and affordable way to access Wegovy. By sourcing the medication from Canada, Better You Rx offers competitive pricing compared to US-based pharmacies, ensuring you can continue your weight management journey even if Wegovy is out of stock locally. Be sure to have a valid prescription when ordering online.
- Is There an Oral Version of Wegovy?
Currently, it is only available as an injectable medication. Although there is no oral version of Wegovy, alternative weight-loss medications in pill form, such as Orlistat (Xenical), are available. However, these alternatives may have different effects and may not offer the same appetite-suppressing benefits as Wegovy.
If you’re having difficulty obtaining Wegovy locally, Better You Rx offers a convenient way to order the injectable version from licensed Canadian pharmacies, ensuring you have continued access to this popular weight management solution at a more affordable price.
- Can I Purchase Wegovy Online?
Yes, you can purchase Wegovy online, but it’s crucial to choose a reputable and licensed source. Better You Rx is a pharmacy affiliate that partners with licensed Canadian pharmacies to provide a secure and affordable option for ordering Wegovy. By sourcing medication from Canada, Better You Rx is able to offer better pricing than US-based pharmacies while ensuring the medication is FDA-approved and safely delivered to your doorstep. Make sure to have a valid prescription from your healthcare provider when placing an order.
- What Should I Do if I Can’t Find My Exact Dose of Wegovy?
If you’re unable to find your specific dose of Wegovy, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting the dose temporarily or switching to a different medication such as Saxenda or Zepbound. However, keep in mind that different medications may have different side effects or dosing schedules.
If finding Wegovy locally is a challenge, Better You Rx offers an alternative by sourcing Wegovy through licensed Canadian pharmacies. This provides an affordable and reliable option for continuing your weight management regimen during shortages.
- How Long Will the Wegovy Shortage Last?
The Wegovy shortage is expected to last at least through the end of 2024, largely due to increased demand and the complexity of the manufacturing process. During this time, it may be difficult to find Wegovy at your local pharmacy.
One potential solution is to order from Better You Rx, which partners with licensed Canadian pharmacies to source Wegovy. By purchasing through this pharmacy affiliate, you can access Wegovy at more affordable prices compared to US-based options, ensuring you continue your treatment without interruption.
