Worldwide demand for a drug used to aid in weight loss is impacting stock at pharmacies in Canada, including this province.
Semaglutide, commonly known as Ozempic, is in high demand due to its proven ability to help people lose weight.
Dr. Cathy Balsom, a clinical pharmacist and professor at Memorial University, says Ozempic is only approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, Health Canada has approved a carbon copy of the drug called Wegovy, strictly for weight loss.
Due to its popularity, demand has skyrocketed and stocks have diminished.
Balsom says Canada hasn’t even been able to get Wegovy due to demand in the United States. Because there is no stock, Ozempic is being prescribed in its place, making it difficult for pharmacies to have an adequate stock for patients.