Ozempic shortages and its high price tag hitting some diabetes patients hard

SAN ANTONIO (WOAI/KABB) — The shortage of Ozempic driven by its off-label use for weight loss is having significant consequences for patients with diabetes who genuinely need the medication.

"I’m healthy, and I’m really healthier than I’ve been in many years," said diabetes patient Dr. Lynda Tussay.

Tussay has been on Ozempic for the last three years to help manage her diabetes. She said it’s been great because one of the side affects is losing weight.

"I have lost 25 pounds, and I am one of these people who is very resistant to losing weight," explained Tussay.

But she feels it’s still a challenge getting Ozempic. More patients are requesting it for weight loss.

"If I didn’t have a good relationship with my pharmacist at HEB, I would be on a waiting list trying to get the drug," said Tussay.

She’s over 65 and on Medicare.

"I have the highest level of all kinds of Medicare, Medicare Assistance Part A, B, D and G, and it’s still $275 a month," said Tussay.

"Unfortunately, these medications are still very expensive. Hopefully, this will change in the future. Some of them are becoming generic in the next year or two," said Chief of Endocrinology at UT Health San Antonio Dr. Carolina Solis Herrera.

She said Ozempic is covered by more than 95% of health insurances in Bexar County for management of diabetes. For obesity, it’s limited. With full insurance coverage, costs can be between zero and $25, with no insurance.

Out-of-pocket cost is between $800 to $1000.

"I know different companies are building more manufacturing centers to get rid of the shortage," said Solis Herrera.

While many people use drug discounts to make Ozempic more affordable, it’s not available to patients like Tussay who are on Medicare.

“I know there are people who don’t get any assistance, but I can’t use the drug manufacturers coupon and when you turn 65. You won’t be able to either,” said Tussay.

So far, several countries, including Britain, Belgium and Germany, have temporarily banned or strongly discouraged Ozempic’s use for weight loss to secure availability for diabetics, but enforcement has proven difficult.