Monday, June 03, 2024

It's Time for Over-the-Counter next‐​generation weight‐​loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy

I think this is generally a good proposal and would save a lot of money! At least it should be tried.

"To make these medicines widely available without breaking the bank, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should do what it already does with some insulin products: Let consumers buy them “over the counter” (OTC). That is, without a prescription.

Drugs tend to be dramatically less expensive when they are available OTC. ..."

It's Time for Over-the-Counter Ozempic | Cato Institute There’s an easy way to lower the cost of next‐​generation weight‐​loss drugs. The new insulin‐​stimulating weight‐​loss drugs semaglutide and tirzepatide appear impressive. Studies suggest they help people shed pounds, reduce the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes, and may even treat kidney problems, HIV‐​related liver disease, alcoholism, and other maladies. It is easy to see why semaglutide was the top‐​selling drug in the United States in 2023 ($38.6 billion in sales), with tirzepatide coming in eighth ($13.2 billion).


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