Why is it so difficult to get Ozempic?

Asked by: Luther Boehm  |  Last update: September 25, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (69 votes)

When videos about achieving rapid weight loss with Ozempic went viral on TikTok, the trend was also reported online and across other media. This triggered a huge demand for the product that the manufacturer was not prepared for, and it quickly developed into a worldwide shortage.

Why is Ozempic out of stock everywhere?

The huge demand for injectable weight loss and type 2 diabetes drugs, including semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), has created supply shortages that leave users scrambling to fill their prescriptions.

What is the closest thing to Ozempic over the counter?

Are there any over-the-counter (OTC) Ozempic alternatives? Medications that work like Ozempic are only available with a prescription. But you may see OTC supplements, such as berberine, being promoted as natural Ozempic alternatives for weight loss.

How long will Ozempic shortage last?

The pharmaceutical company that supplies Ozempic, Novo Nordisk, has recently advised us and the Ozempic Medicine Shortage Action Group (MSAG) that supply will continue to be limited until 31 December 2025.

What is the new drug replacing Ozempic?

Another diabetes drug, called Mounjaro, is now gaining attention, with many people using it off-label to lose weight. Some research has found that Mounjaro may be even more powerful than either Ozempic or Wegovy.

Ozempic is a game-changer. Here’s how it works.

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Why is Mounjaro better than Ozempic?

While they are approved for diabetes, both Mounjaro and Ozempic also make people lose weight by helping you to feel full longer. Ozempic acts like a hormone your body makes. Mounjaro works similarly, but it acts like two hormones instead of one. Compared to Ozempic, Mounjaro might work even better for weight loss.

How did Kelly Clarkson lose weight?

Kelly Clarkson's weight loss was motivated by health concerns, including autoimmune and thyroid conditions. She combined diet changes, such as adopting a lectin-free diet, with regular exercise like walking. Clarkson's journey included using weight loss medication, although she emphasized a holistic approach.

How to find out if a pharmacy has Ozempic in stock?

A great first step is to call or visit your local pharmacy to ask if they have Ozempic in stock. Be sure to provide your prescription details, including your dosage, so they can check their inventory.

Will Ozempic ever be available again?

When will the Ozempic shortage end? Novo Nordisk, has recently advised the TGA and the Ozempic Medicine Shortage Action Group (MSAG) that supply will remain limited throughout 2025. We continue to work closely with Novo Nordisk and relevant health professional and consumer organisations to monitor this situation.

How to switch from Ozempic to Wegovy?

If switching from semaglutide (OZEMPIC) once weekly to semaglutide (WEGOVY) once weekly, the first dose of semaglutide (WEGOVY) is administered 7 days after discontinuing semaglutide (OZEMPIC).

When will generic Ozempic be available?

Key takeaways. A true generic version of Ozempic won't be available until at least 2033, as the drug is still under patent protection. Some compounded semaglutide options are marketed as cheaper alternatives but are not FDA approved and may carry safety risks.

What is the pill equivalent to Ozempic?

Rybelsus, an oral form of semaglutide, appears to be just as effective as Ozempic and Wegovy for diabetes management and weight loss, but it is only available in less powerful doses. In the coming years, larger doses for the treatment of both diabetes and obesity may become available.

What foods can mimic Ozempic?

Oats can mimic the effects of Ozempic as they are naturally rich in fibre. As per a study published in Nutrition Reviews, a 250-kcal serving of “old fashioned” oatmeal with 2.6 gm of β-glucan increased perceptions of satiety.

What has replaced Ozempic?

Ozempic alternatives for weight loss

While Ozempic is not approved as a weight loss medication, there are three GLP-1 medications that are approved specifically for chronic weight management: Wegovy (semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide).

Does Walmart have Ozempic in stock?

Can You Buy Ozempic at Walmart? Yes, you can buy Ozempic at Walmart. It's available at Walmart pharmacies across the country, but keep in mind that it's a prescription medication, so you'll need a valid prescription from a healthcare provider to purchase it.

When will Wegovy be available again in 2024 in the USA?

Due to high demand, semaglutide injections (sold as Ozempic and Wegovy) have been in shortage since early 2022. As of late October 2024, all Ozempic and Wegovy doses have been listed as “available.” The FDA hasn't officially determined that the semaglutide injection shortage is over yet.

Why is Ozempic always on backorder?

Ozempic shortages have occurred due to supply and demand — demand became greater than supply, so there wasn't enough of the medication for everyone who needed it. For context, Ozempic is FDA-approved only for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, which it helps manage by controlling blood sugar.

Is Trulicity the same as Ozempic?

Both are once-weekly injections and may also help you lose weight. Trulicity contains dulaglutide, while Ozempic contains semaglutide. Studies suggest that Ozempic works better at lowering blood sugar and promoting weight loss compared to Trulicity.

Where can I find Ozempic?

While Ozempic is not available over the counter at stores like Walmart, you can likely find it at the pharmacy. Many Walmart pharmacies carry Ozempic, so you just need to bring your prescription and insurance information to the drop-off window. Or, your healthcare provider can call your prescription in for you.

Can you check online if a pharmacy has a medication in stock?

How do I know if a pharmacy has drugs in stock? You can visit the pharmacy's website and search for it there. Or, the FDA provides a phone number for the manufacturer for you to call and check with local pharmacies to see if they carry that particular drug.

What are doctors prescribing in place of Ozempic?

Oral medications, such as Metformin, Qsymia, Contrave, and Xenical may also be prescribed as Ozempic alternatives, though they have different ways of working.
  • Maybe there's a drug shortage. ...
  • The good news is that Ozempic is not the only medication in its class.

Is Wegovy the same as Ozempic?

Ozempic and Wegovy are made by the same company. They both contain the same active ingredient semaglutide. However, Wegovy contains higher doses of it and is designed for weight loss. Ozempic has lower doses of semaglutide and was developed specifically for type 2 diabetes patients.

How did Melissa McCarthy lose weight?

Melissa told People magazine that after she landed her role on Gilmore Girls, she attempted a doctor-supervised all-liquid diet, which led her to lose 70 pounds in four months.

How did Adele lose weight?

Adele's routine involved daily workouts, including weight training and cardio. She worked with a trainer to create a balanced plan that fit her lifestyle. This consistent exercise helped her build strength and boost her fitness level.

What is the strongest weight loss prescription pill?

Some of the strongest weight loss pills available today include: Naltrexone/bupropion (brand name Contrave) Phentermine/topiramate (brand name Qsymia) Orlistat (brand names Xenical, Alli)