Weight Loss Drug Shortage: What you Need to Know

The demand for weight loss medications has skyrocketed in recent years, driven by a growing awareness of their efficacy. Thanks to this increase in popularity, manufacturers are dealing with prolonged and recurring shortages.

People all over the world are struggling to get their hands on these treatments—even if they already have an active prescription..

From pharmacies running out of stock to patients struggling to maintain consistent access, the weight loss drug shortage is causing frustration for patients and doctors alike.

In this article, we’ll dive into why these shortages are happening, what it means for those relying on the meds, and what you need to know to navigate this tricky situation.

Is there a shortage of weight loss drugs in the USA?

As of September 16, 2024, the FDA reports that all major weight loss drugs are currently available, with the exception of one dose of Wegovy, which is listed as having limited availability.

However, this doesn’t guarantee they won’t fall back into a weight loss medication shortage, as we’ve seen happen repeatedly over the past two years.

Why is there a weight loss drug shortage?

The ongoing shortage of weight loss drugs boils down to a classic supply and demand issue. These drugs are not only incredibly effective, they’re being endorsed by celebrities, which has boosted their appeal even further.

Manufacturers—Novo Nordisk (makers of Ozempic and Wegovy) and Eli Lilly (makers of Mounjaro and Zepbound)—were unprepared for the skyrocketing demand, and their existing infrastructure couldn’t keep up.

As a result, drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have been in and out of short supply for over a year. Both manufacturers are working to eliminate the issue, with Eli Lilly claiming their factories are running 24/7, 365 to close the gap.

Unfortunately, until the infrastructure catches up, shortages are likely to continue.

What does the shortage mean for you?

It may mean you won’t be able to fill your next prescription. In some cases, you might be able to fill your prescription but not at the full quantity you need.

If you are struggling to fill your prescription, you may need to work closely with your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan during these shortages.

You have the option to switch to a different weight loss medication that is not in shortage, or you may need to consider using compounded versions of the medication.

During shortages, the FDA allows for compounding pharmacies to make versions of the drugs. Keep in mind that whether you’re using compounded tirzepatide or compounded semaglutide, there are other factors to consider and you should discuss all options with your healthcare provider.

Weight loss drug shortage: which drugs are hardest to find?

Though the weight loss medication shortage is easing, many are still struggling to fill their prescriptions. Here’s what you need to know about each medication.

Ozempic shortage 2024: what is the current Ozempic availability?

According to the FDA’s drug shortage database, Ozempic availability is not impacted by the current shortage. However, this can change as demand continues to grow. This is why the FDA has decided to keep semaglutide (Ozempic’s active ingredient) listed as in shortage.

Mounjaro shortage 2024: what is the current Mounjaro availability?

Similar to Ozempic, Mounjaro is listed as available at all doses, but tirzepatide (Mounjaro’s active ingredient) is listed as currently in shortage. Since the weight loss medication shortages keep popping up, the FDA will not list these medications as fully available until they’re confident that the manufacturers can meet the demand consistently.

Zepbound shortage 2024: what is the current Zepbound availability?

Despite each dosage being listed as available, Zepbound is considered one of the most difficult weight loss medications to access. The popularity of tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Zepbound and Mounjaro) paired with Zepbound’s FDA approval has skyrocketed the popularity of this medication.

Zepbound availability is being impacted by this popularity. Though the medication is considered available by the FDA, actual availability may vary by wholesaler and pharmacy.

Wegovy shortage 2024: what is the current Wegovy availability?

The availability of Wegovy is currently impacted by the weight loss drug shortage. Currently, the starter dose of .25 mg is listed with limited availability due to demand increase.

Novo Nordisk, Wegovy’s manufacturer, has issued a statement in regards to this shortage. In January 2024, they committed to doubling the amount of the lower dosages in the U.S. market with a gradual increase of supply.

They have managed to double total weekly prescriptions since the beginning of the year and they are continuing to manage the shortage of the starter dose.

Unfortunately, they have not given a definitive end date to the Wegovy weight loss shortage.

Tips on dealing with the weight loss drug shortage

The manufacturers are working hard to keep these medications available, but there’s no guarantee they won’t slip into another shortage. Don’t wait to make plans.

Keep in touch with your healthcare provider. If you need to make changes to your treatment plan, they can determine the best course of action—whether that be changing your dose, changing your medication, or something else.
Contact your pharmacy before you need a refill. Pay attention to your current supply and reach out to your pharmacy well in advance. This way they have time to source the medication if their supply is limited.
Contact other pharmacies. If your local pharmacy is not able to fill your prescription, start reaching out to other local pharmacies—or online pharmacies—to see if you can fill your prescription sooner through them.

Start making a plan today. If you don’t have a healthcare provider or are considering starting a weight loss medication, now is the time to act. Heally offers a convenient way to connect with a healthcare professional online, making it easier to get the support you need.

Schedule a consultation on Heally and start building out your treatment plan today!