A vial of compounded semaglutide on Oct. 1, 2024, in Seattle. As demand for blockbuster medications like Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound skyrockets, off-brand versions such as semaglutide have also grown in popularity.
As the Food and Drug Administration clamps down on off-brand weight loss medications, Seattle-area residents are stocking up on supplies and fretting about the future of their treatment.
Over the past few years, demand for blockbuster medications like Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound skyrocketed. These drugs are typically prescribed to address a range of health issues, including diabetes and obesity. However, they’re also pricey, and health insurance plans often don’t cover them for weight loss use.