Saxenda Shortage: Why Is There A Short Supply of the Weight Loss Injection Pen?
In recent years, Saxenda has emerged as a prominent weight loss solution for many people around the world. But as of 2023, there's been growing concern regarding its availability. This article delves into what Saxenda is, addresses the pressing question of its current shortage, and offers insights into when we might expect supply chains to improve. Furthermore, we'll shed light on potential reasons behind this supply disruption.
Saxenda Shortage 2023
At the time of writing, there is a global shortage of glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) like Saxenda (EMA, 2023). But do not be concerned as EU Meds are on hand to guide you through why the shortage may be happening, and when you can expect the situation to improve.
Why is there a shortage of Saxenda?
Demand Has Increased
The shortage is partly due to the increased demand for the drug semaglutide, which is the active ingredient in the medications Ozempic and Wegovy. In Saxenda, the active ingredient is liraglutide. When people cannot get semaglutide medications they will look for alternatives, such as Saxenda. This demand has led to a shortage in stock.
Widespread Coverage in the Media
In recent months, there has been a spike in the amount of media coverage that has been given to weight loss medications, including Saxenda, Wegovy and Ozempic. With more people discovering the benefits of GLP-1 treatments for weight loss, the demand for the medications has increased. This increase in demand has overtaken the amount of supply.
When will the supply issues improve?
Novo Nordisk’s Supply Chain Issues
Novo Nordisk, which is the company that produces weight loss medications such as Saxenda and Wegovy, have said that Saxenda supply chain challenges may persist until 2024. We are collaborating with Novo Nordisk to try and secure more stock for our patients and we are doing all we can to ensure a continuous supply of medication for those patients who need it.
Which drugs are impacted by the short supply of GLP-1 RA medications?
Due to the current shortages, all GLP-1 RA medications are currently in short supply, including:
What can I do if the Saxenda shortage affects me?
If you are currently a Saxenda user and the shortage affects you, don't worry as EU Meds are here to support you. You can still complete an online weight loss consultation with us as you would normally, however, due to the shortages, it might be necessary to consider a different weight loss medication or management plan, such as Ozempic (which at the time of writing is currently in stock).
You may wish to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional to discuss your options prior to starting any treatment. This is because they will be able to advise you on the most appropriate medication for your individual requirements.
You can stay informed on the status of Saxenda at EU Meds by signing up for email alerts, and rest assured that EU Meds is doing all that we can to ensure a constant supply of all of the medications that our patients need.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to the team here at EU Meds.
Common Questions About the Saxenda Shortage
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get from our customers about the Saxenda shortage:
Should the dose of Saxenda I take be reduced to make it last longer?
We always recommend that you take the dose of Saxenda that your prescriber has told you to use. If you are unsure about the most appropriate dose of Saxenda to take then you may wish to speak to your healthcare provider for further advice.
Are side effects more likely if I stop Saxenda treatment suddenly?
Suddenly stopping treatment with Saxenda weight loss injections will not cause any side effects so you shouldn’t worry if you find that you’ve run out of your supply of the medication. You will also not experience any withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medication as it is not an addictive medication. You should consult with your healthcare provider or doctor if your supply of Saxenda has run out and you require a suitable alternative weight loss treatment.
During the Saxenda shortage will the price of Saxenda be subject to change?
Yes, during this time, the price of Saxenda may change based on the supply of the medication available in the market currently. EU Meds customers can rest assured that we are doing everything we can to ensure that you receive a fair price.
Does stopping use of Saxenda put you at risk of gaining weight?
If you do not actively take steps to maintain your weight loss then you may regain the weight that you have lost since starting treatment with Saxenda. Some simple lifestyle choices that can help you to sustain weight loss include:
Keeping track of the macronutrients and calories that you eat (Willoughby et al, 2018)
Eating a plant-based diet (Turner-McGrievy et al, 2017)
Reducing the amount of less healthy foods you consume (NIH, 2022)
Doing physical activities that you enjoy (Hall and Kahan, 2018)
Setting weight loss goals to keep you on track (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2023)
Doing intermittent fasting (Welton et al, 2020)
Eating at the right time of day (Kim, J., 2020)
Getting plenty of good quality sleep (Kline et al, 2021)
Ensuring you stay well hydrated (Thornton, S., 2016)
It should be noted that the above points are only suggestions based on expert advice and that not all strategies will work for everyone. Your healthcare provider will be able to advise you on the best way to lose weight safely and sustainably based on your individual needs.
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