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Based on the available information, there is no definitive date for when Wegovy 0.25 mg doses will be fully back in stock in the US. However, here are the key points regarding the supply situation:
- Limited availability: The 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg doses of Wegovy are currently listed as having “limited availability” on the FDA’s drug shortage database.
- Gradual increase in supply: Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy, has announced plans to gradually increase the supply of all Wegovy doses throughout 2024.
- Recent improvements: In early 2024, Novo Nordisk reported that they had more than doubled the supply of lower-dose versions of Wegovy compared to previous months. This allows for more new patients to start treatment.
- Ongoing challenges: Despite improvements, demand is still expected to exceed supply for the foreseeable future.
- Manufacturing expansion: Novo Nordisk is investing heavily in expanding production capacity, including a recent $11 billion deal to acquire three manufacturing facilities. However, these efforts may not significantly impact supply until 2026.
- Current patient starts: As of early 2024, Novo Nordisk reported being able to start approximately 25,000 new patients on Wegovy weekly in the US.
While the supply situation is improving, patients may still face difficulties in filling prescriptions for the lower doses of Wegovy, including the 0.25 mg starter dose. It’s recommended that patients work closely with their healthcare providers and pharmacies to explore options and stay informed about availability.
Additionally, checking with multiple pharmacies and considering online resources like the Ro GLP-1 Supply Tracker may help locate available stock.
What are the current availability statuses of other Wegovy doses?
The current availability statuses of various Wegovy doses in the US are as follows:
0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg doses:
These lower doses are experiencing limited availability due to high demand and ongoing supply constraints. Novo Nordisk is managing shipments to ensure continuity of care for existing patients, but many patients may still face difficulties in filling prescriptions for these doses through at least September 2024.
1.7 mg and 2.4 mg doses:
These higher doses are currently available and not experiencing the same level of supply interruptions as the lower doses. The 1.7 mg dose was recently listed as available on the FDA’s drug shortage database, joining the 2.4 mg dose, which has also been in stock.
Key points:
- Novo Nordisk is actively working to increase production capacity and gradually improve the supply of all doses throughout the year, but demand is expected to continue exceeding supply for the foreseeable future.
- The company is prioritizing production of the 1.7 mg and 2.4 mg maintenance doses to allow existing patients to continue treatment.
- Novo Nordisk reports being able to start approximately 25,000 new U.S. patients on Wegovy weekly as of early 2024, which is an improvement from previous months.
- According to Novo Nordisk, the supply constraints for the lower doses are expected to continue at least through September 2024.
While production has increased, the lower starter doses (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg) remain in limited supply, while the higher maintenance doses (1.7 mg, 2.4 mg) are more readily available. Patients may still face difficulties filling prescriptions, especially for the lower doses.
How can I find out if a pharmacy has Wegovy in stock?
To find out if a pharmacy has Wegovy in stock, you can take the following steps:
1. Contact pharmacies directly
- Call Local Pharmacies: Reach out to nearby pharmacies via phone and inquire about the availability of Wegovy. This can include chain pharmacies (e.g., CVS, Walgreens) and independent pharmacies.
- Visit Pharmacies: If possible, visit pharmacies in person to check stock and discuss options with the pharmacist.
2. Use online tools and resources
- Pharmacy Websites: Some pharmacy chains have online tools that allow you to check medication availability at specific locations.
- GLP-1 Supply Trackers: Use online tools like the Ro GLP-1 Supply Tracker to find pharmacies with Wegovy in stock. These tools often provide real-time updates and can notify you when the medication becomes available.
3. Ask your healthcare provider
- Provider Networks: Your healthcare provider may know which pharmacies are more likely to have Wegovy in stock. They may also be able to recommend specialty pharmacies that can fulfill your prescription.
4. Consider mail-order pharmacies
- Mail-Order Services: Some mail-order pharmacies may have better stock of Wegovy. Check with your insurance provider to see if they offer mail-order pharmacy services and if Wegovy is available through them.
5. Use prescription discount services
- Discount Programs: Services like GoodRx can sometimes provide information on medication availability and prices at different pharmacies.
6. Check with compounding pharmacies
- Compounded Medications: Some compounding pharmacies may be able to create semaglutide formulations if Wegovy is out of stock. Be sure to verify the quality and safety of these compounded medications.
Using these methods can increase your chances of finding a pharmacy that has Wegovy in stock. Always verify the availability before making a trip to the pharmacy to save time and effort.
What to do if Wegovy is out of stock?
If Wegovy is out of stock, there are several steps you can take to manage your weight loss treatment:
1. Consult your healthcare provider
- Alternative Medications: Ask your healthcare provider about alternative medications that can be used in place of Wegovy. Some alternatives include:
- Saxenda (liraglutide): Another GLP-1 receptor agonist that is injected daily.
- Ozempic (semaglutide): Although primarily for diabetes, it is sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss.
- Rybelsus (oral semaglutide): An oral form of semaglutide that might be more readily available.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide): A newer GLP-1 receptor agonist that is also used for weight management.
- Other Medications: Options like Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate) and Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) are also available.
2. Consider compounded medications
- Compounded Semaglutide: Some compounding pharmacies can create semaglutide formulations. However, be cautious as these are not FDA-approved and may not be covered by insurance.
3. Maintain lifestyle changes
- Diet and Exercise: Continue with diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments to manage your weight while waiting for Wegovy to become available again.
4. Use supply tracking tools
- GLP-1 Supply Tracker: Tools like the one provided by Ro can help you find pharmacies with Wegovy in stock. These tools can send alerts when the medication is available nearby.
5. Plan ahead
- Early Refills: Contact your pharmacy for refills at least 1-2 weeks earlier than usual to increase the chances of obtaining the medication.
6. Temporary pause
- Pause Treatment: If no alternatives are suitable, you might need to temporarily stop taking Wegovy. Be aware of potential side effects like gastrointestinal distress and weight regain, and continue with lifestyle modifications during this period.
7. Explore insurance options
- Insurance Coverage: Check with your insurance provider for coverage of alternative medications or compounded versions to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
These steps allow you to manage your weight loss treatment effectively even if Wegovy is temporarily unavailable. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.