Ozempic shortage expected in Canada: manufacturer

A scarcity of diabetes drug Ozempic that’s used off-label for weight reduction is anticipated in Canada, producer Novo Nordisk and Health Canada stated on Friday.

“We are experiencing a temporary supply disruption with the Ozempic 1 mg (injection) pen due to the combination of overall global supply constraints coupled with increased demand,” stated Novo Nordisk spokesperson Kate Hanna in an emailed assertion.

On its web site, Health Canada stated “intermittent shortages” are anticipated from late August to early October.

The 0.25 mg and 0.5 mg doses of Ozempic injection pens stay obtainable “for patients with Type 2 diabetes across Canada,” Hanna stated.

“Canada is one of many countries experiencing supply challenges. We have been proactively working with our global colleagues, Health Canada, and medication shipment partners to address this issue to mitigate impact across Canada,” she stated.

The lower-dose pens “may be an option for some patients to mitigate the impacts” of the provision disruption, Health Canada’s internet web page stated.

But “it will be important to avoid further shortages,” it stated.

Health Canada and Novo Nordisk are “closely monitoring” the provision of Rybelsus, which is the capsule type of semaglutide, the lively ingredient in Ozempic, the net web page stated.

“Patients are encouraged to consult with a health care practitioner on available options,” Health Canada stated.

Ozempic and Rybelsus are at the moment permitted by Health Canada for the remedy of Type 2 diabetes.

Endocrinologists have beforehand instructed The Canadian Press that semaglutide, prescribed at increased doses, can also be an efficient remedy for weight problems and that they’ve prescribed it off-label for that function.

But some docs and ethics consultants have criticized Novo Nordisk for aggressively advertising each Ozempic and Rybelsus in Canada in latest months, citing issues that individuals will search prescriptions for beauty weight reduction.

Another semaglutide drug manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Wegovy, has been permitted by Health Canada for the remedy of weight problems, however it’s not but obtainable on this nation.

This report by The Canadian Press was first revealed Aug. 18, 2023.

Canadian Press well being protection receives assist via a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association. CP is solely answerable for this content material.