Doctors Advised to Halt Ozempic Prescriptions for Weight Loss Seekers Amid Shortage
Doctors and pharmacists in the UK have been warned to stop prescribing diabetes medication, such as Ozempic, to individuals seeking weight loss, as the demand for these drugs is causing a national shortage and putting the lives of diabetics at risk. The delay in launching the weight loss version of Ozempic, called Wegovy, has led to an increase in "off-label" prescribing, exacerbating the shortage. The Department of Health issued a patient safety alert urging healthcare providers to conserve existing stock for patients with diabetes. The Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency is working to ensure access to these drugs or suitable alternatives.