Insurers' Tightened Coverage of Ozempic Causes Delays for US Diabetes Patients

Some patients with type 2 diabetes in the US are facing difficulties in getting reimbursed for drugs like Ozempic as insurers tighten coverage restrictions to discourage doctors from prescribing the medication for weight loss. This trend has led to a recent decline in US prescriptions, causing delays and disruptions for diabetes patients. Insurers are implementing prior authorization requirements, forcing patients to try other drugs before being allowed to access newer medications. The average number of weekly Ozempic prescriptions has dropped by over 6% since the third quarter of this year. Patients and doctors are preparing for changes in coverage terms in January, which may further impact access to these medications.