In recent years, weight loss medications have skyrocketed in popularity. As demand surged for Ozempic—FDA-approved for diabetes management—it overwhelmed the supply, prompting the creation of Wegovy.
Unfortunately, the high demand continues to pose challenges, creating a Wegovy shortage that is impacting patients around the world. Many pharmacies frequently find themselves out of stock, making it difficult for individuals to fill their prescriptions consistently.
Why is there a Wegovy shortage?
This is a classic supply and demand issue. As the popularity of weight loss medications surged, manufacturers like Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of both Ozempic and Wegovy, found themselves unprepared for the overwhelming demand. Their existing infrastructure simply couldn’t keep pace with the increased interest in these treatments.
Despite efforts to ramp up production, the industry has faced challenges that have led to repeated shortages over the past two years. So, the Wegovy deficit remains an issue for many.
When will Wegovy be back in stock?
It’s hard to say. Although the FDA has officially listed the medication as “Currently in Shortage,” this designation applies to only one specific dosage: the starter dose of .25 mg.
Other doses may still be available, but fluctuations in inventory can vary significantly from pharmacy to pharmacy.
Why does the FDA still maintain the Wegovy shortage designation? Because there is no guarantee that the medication will not fall back into a deficit—as we’ve seen happen repeatedly over the last two years.
Novo Nordisk, Wegovy’s manufacturer, did issue a statement in January 2024 committing to doubling the amount of the lower dosages in the U.S. market with a gradual increase of supply. So far they have managed to double total weekly prescriptions and are continuing to manage the starter dose shortage.
Where to find Wegovy in stock: 3 ways to get your Wegovy prescription filled
Knowing how to find Wegovy in stock is important for those needing to fill their Wegovy prescriptions. It’s not as simple as knowing where to find Wegovy in stock as the supply and demand vary pharmacy to pharmacy.
Below, we outline three effective methods to help you fill your prescription despite the Wegovy shortage.
Stay Ahead of Your Refills
If you already have a Wegovy prescription, you need to pay close attention to your current supply. Do not wait until you need the refill. Instead, reach out to your pharmacy well in advance. This gives them time to source the medication if their supply is limited.
This method increases your chances of getting your refills on time with your current pharmacy.
Contact Other Local Pharmacies
If your current pharmacy is dealing with the Wegovy shortage, that doesn’t necessarily mean that other pharmacies don’t have stock. Contact other pharmacies in your area to see if they have your dose in stock.
You can also check with online retailers and platforms to see if they have Wegovy in stock.
Try A Prescription Delivery Service
Many online prescription delivery services, like Heally, can help you find Wegovy and deliver it directly to your home. These platforms often have partnerships with various pharmacies and can check inventory levels in real time.
By using these services, you can streamline the process of obtaining your medication and potentially find Wegovy in stock more quickly. Make sure to provide your prescription information and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure you’re getting the right dosage and formulation.
Or, you can streamline the process even further. Connect with a weight loss specialist through Heally’s platform, get your prescription online, and have your medication delivered directly to your door.
Sources
- NPR: Drugmakers say obesity medicine shortages are easing, but patients struggle to fill prescriptions
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA): FDA Drug Shortages – Semaglutide
- Novo Nordisk: Wegovy Supply Update
