Medication Shortages Alert: Ozempic and Victoza for Diabetes
Shortages and Prescribing Guidance
Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of the diabetes medications Ozempic and Victoza, has informed the National Organization for Medicines (EOF) about limited availability and often shortages of these medications. Consequently, the company recommends doctors prescribe them sparingly to new patients to ensure sufficient supply for existing patients.
Reasons for Shortages
The shortages are due to:
Increased demand for Ozempic
Limited production capacity in certain factories
Impact on Prescribing
Prescribing these medications to new patients is temporarily discouraged.
Existing patients should continue their treatment without interruption.
Doctors will determine appropriate alternatives for patients experiencing shortages.
Who Should Consider These Medications?
Ozempic and Victoza are prescribed to adults with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes. They are typically used in combination with diet and exercise.
Additional Information
Victoza is also indicated for teenagers and children aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes.
Both medications are administered via injection.
Off-label use of these medications for weight management is discouraged as it jeopardizes their availability for those who need them for diabetes treatment.
For more information:
See the letter from Novo Nordisk to EOF: <a href="https://www.eof.gr/c/documentlibrary/getfile?uuid=3929dccc-1ca2-4429-8084-308809a160e6&groupId=12225″>HERE