Semaglutide Shortage

Let’s fact-check some of the social media commentary on this story:

1) The drug shortage of the drug semaglutide is GLOBAL (not an Irish problem). It is a supply, not safety, issue.

2) The drug semaglutide is licensed for the treatment of obesity. In Ireland, that drug is currently only available as “Ozempic”. Semaglutide is used for diabetes AND obesity, but sold under 2 different names. Ozempic pens are for diabetes, Wegovy pens are for obesity. Same stuff in BOTH pens.

3) Misuse and misprescribing of this drug is a problem. This is primarily a problem from online pill-mills or aesthetic clinics. Patients with obesity deserve access to expert, in-person, and multi-disciplinary care rather than just a prescription for a drug that might not even be the right drug from them (GLP-1 are not right for everyone).

4). HOWEVER, there is no shortage, prescribing, or preparation reason that in any way justifies every shaming patients for filling a prescription.

If you are one of my real-life patients who attend me for obesity, you know that this class of drugs is prescribed in joint-care with a consultant endocrinologist or, for those who fulfill LTI/DPS criteria, with your GP. I have heard the awful stories over the past few weeks that patients have shared with me about their experience of being humiliated at pharmacy counters.

All patients deserve dignity and respect in all healthcare settings. Full Stop.