Weight Loss Drug Like Ozempic Are Prescribed Online. Is It Safe?

So are semaglutide drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy. reportedly We’re getting closer to getting off the shortage list, but we’re not there yet. As a result, a combined version of semaglutide is available through telemedicine.

But is this a good idea? Obesity doctors weigh in.

Meet the experts: Dr. Alexandra Sowais an internist specializing in preventive health, nutrition, and obesity medicine, and the author of a forthcoming book. Ozempic revolution

What are the benefits of obtaining Ozempic through a telemedicine appointment or pharmacy?

There are some potential perks to choosing this route. “Weight stigma still pervades many medical practices, which can make it difficult to find a general practitioner who will prescribe Ozempic,” he says. Dr. Alexandra Sowaan internist specializing in preventive health, nutrition, and obesity medicine, and author of a forthcoming book. Ozempic revolution.

But telehealth appointments and compounding pharmacies typically have established business models for prescribing and delivering these medications, she says. “This is a friendly and easy way to get your medication,” Sowa says.

If you go the compound interest route, costs can go either way, she says. These drugs are often cheaper than face value when purchased from a compounding pharmacy, but “many companies don’t offer insurance options,” Sowa says.

If you don’t have health insurance or your health insurance doesn’t cover a drug like Ozempic, getting your medication from a compounding pharmacy may be a more affordable option. But that’s not always the case (more on this in a moment).

What are the disadvantages of obtaining Ozempic through a telemedicine appointment or from a pharmacy?

There are some potential drawbacks to using this method. The FDA warned Regarding potential disadvantages and over-the-counter placebos, taking any of these can be dangerous.

Most telemedicine and compounding pharmacies also focus on simply losing weight and don’t consider overall health, Sowa says.

“These drugs are meant to help you lose overall weight for your health,” she says. “Taking it just to lose weight is problematic.”

These drugs are not FDA approved or regulated. “They’re supposed to be copies, but it’s hard to know what’s inside,” Sowa says. Therefore, it is difficult to know whether they are safe or effective.

It may also be more cost-effective to obtain genuine Ozempic through your doctor.