Scott Weaver
Updated at: October 21, 2024 · 5 min read
Ozempic Shortage UK: Explaining the Short Supply of the Diabetes Injection Pen
Update: At the time of writing there was a short supply of this medication. Please note that supply may have changed since. For the latest information please refer to the manufacturer website.
Are you currently a diabetes patient who has been prescribed Ozempic? If so, we have some important updates to share regarding the diabetes injection.
Ozempic Shortage UK 2024
Currently, there's a global shortage of glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) like Ozempic (EMA, 2022), Wegovy and Saxenda. But don't worry, UK Meds are on hand to guide you through it.
Why is there a shortage of Ozempic?
Increased Demand
The Ozempic shortage is partly due to the increased demand for the drug semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic (diabetes treatment) and Wegovy (weight loss treatment now available in the UK).
Media Coverage
Widespread media coverage has led to an increasing number of people discovering the benefits of GLP-1 treatments for weight loss and diabetes.
As a result, many are turning to Ozempic (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide), and this sudden surge in demand has outpaced the supply (Diabetes UK, 2024).
When will the supply issues improve?
Ozempic Shortage Update from Novo Nordisk
Novo Nordisk, the company behind Ozempic, Saxenda and Wegovy, has said that Ozempic supply chain challenges may persist through 2024. We're actively collaborating with Novo Nordisk to secure more stock for our patients and are doing all we can to ensure a continuous supply of medication for those patients who need it.
Which drugs are impacted by the short supply of GLP-1 RA medications?
The current shortages are expected to impact the availability of all GLP-1 RA medications, including:
What can I do if the Ozempic shortage affects me?
If you're an Ozempic pen user and the shortage affects you, don't worry; UK Meds is here to support you. You can still complete an online diabetes consultation with us as you would normally. However, due to the shortages, it might be necessary to consider a different antidiabetic medication or management plan.
Consult your doctor or healthcare professional to discuss your options prior to starting any treatment as they can advise you on the most appropriate medication for your individual requirements.
Stay informed by signing up for email alerts, and rest assured that UK Meds is doing all we can to ensure a constant supply of all medications that our patients need.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to the UK Meds team. Your well-being is our priority.
Ozempic Shortage FAQs
Our customers have been in touch asking some common questions about the Ozempic shortage, including:
Should I reduce the dose of Ozempic I take to make it last longer?
We would recommend taking the dose of the Ozempic injection that your prescriber recommended. Consult your doctor or healthcare provider if you are unsure about the most appropriate dose of Ozempic to take.
Does stopping Ozempic treatment suddenly cause any side effects?
Stopping treatment with Ozempic diabetes injections suddenly should be done with caution due to potential side effects, as it stimulates the release of insulin and lowers blood sugar, which can cause the amount of glucose in your body to spike if you suffer from diabetes and suddenly stop using Ozempic (Anderson, 2023). If you find that you’ve run out of your supply of the medication you should consult your doctor as soon as possible for advice on a suitable alternative diabetes treatment.
Should I expect the price of Ozempic to change whilst there is a shorter supply of the medication?
Yes, during this time, the price of Ozempic may change based on the supply of the medication available in the market currently. UK Meds customers can rest assured that we are doing everything we can to ensure that you receive a fair price.
How can I manage type 2 diabetes naturally if I stop taking Ozempic?
Whilst there is a shortage of Ozempic in the UK and supplies are limited some simple lifestyle choices can help you to manage type 2 diabetes including:
Limiting intake of carbohydrates with added and/or refined sugars (NIDDK, 2016)
Trialling a Mediterranean diet (The London Diabetes Centre, 2021)
Achieving a BMI in a healthy range by losing weight (Bramante et al, 2017)
Getting more active (NIDDK, 2017)
Monitoring blood glucose regularly (NIDDK, 2016)
It is important to note that the above are only suggestions and that not all strategies will be appropriate for you. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best way to manage type 2 diabetes sustainably and safely for your individual needs.
Sources
Diabetes UK - Our Response to Serious Supply Issues of Drugs
Pharmaceutical Journal - Government Declares National Shortage of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Ozempic (Semaglutide) Patient Information Leaflet - Medicines.org.uk
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Alexis Missick MBChB. MRCGP
GMC reference no: 7151419
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