PHARMACISTS and doctors are being told to limit prescribing and dispensing of semaglutide (Ozempic) solution for injection pre-filled pens, due to an unexpected increase in consumer demand because of "extensive prescribing for obesity management, for which Ozempic is not indicated".
The Therapeutic Goods Administration yesterday issued a joint statement alongside a host of medical bodies including the Pharmacy Guild, Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, Society of Hospital Pharmacists Australia, the National Pharmaceutical Services Association, the AMA, the RACGP and more, noting that shortages are "significantly affecting people using Ozempic for its approved use for type 2 diabetes".
Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals has advised that supplies of semaglutide in Australia are sufficient for this approved use, and is working with the TGA, professional associations and consumer groups to limit the effects of off-label use.
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