The FDA recently disclosed that shortages of popular injected weight-loss medications, Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide), are likely to persist. According to the FDA update on April 29th, the smallest doses required to initiate treatment with Wegovy are currently in limited supply, with no clear timeline for resolution. Additionally, shortages of Zepbound and Mounjaro, a diabetes medication containing the same active ingredient as Zepbound, are expected to continue until at least the end of June.
The scarcity of these medications is attributed to heightened demand, as confirmed by the FDA. Dr. Jody Dushay, an endocrinologist from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, expressed pessimism regarding the timeline for resolving the shortages, based on the challenges faced by her patients in obtaining these medications. She anticipates shortages persisting through 2024.
Similar sentiments are echoed by other healthcare professionals across the United States. Dr. Adam Gilden, an obesity specialist from the University of Colorado School of Medicine, noted that Zepbound has been particularly difficult to obtain for his patients in recent months. Dr. Anthony Millard, an obesity specialist from Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, highlighted the significant obstacles patients face in obtaining the proper dosage, leading to challenges in achieving weight loss goals and associated health benefits.
Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Zepbound and Mounjaro, attributed the shortages to an unprecedented surge in demand. While they expect limited availability in the short term, they anticipate progressively increasing production throughout 2024 and beyond. Similarly, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy and Ozempic, acknowledged the challenges in meeting demand despite efforts to ramp up production.
Starter doses of Wegovy and Zepbound are particularly scarce. Patients are typically instructed to begin with low doses and gradually increase them to minimize side effects. Starting at higher doses could lead to severe gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, potentially necessitating emergency medical care.
