Tiana Nordstrom experienced a significant change when she stopped using Ozempic, as she felt a rush of suppressed thoughts about food flooding back to her. The 50-year-old resident of Powell River, B.C., described the constant and relentless nature of these thoughts, leading her to mindlessly snack from the fridge when not vigilant. Initially pre-diabetic in 2022, Nordstrom managed to avoid developing diabetes through a combination of the medication, exercise, and a healthy diet. However, the escalating cost, reaching $400 per month as her dosage increased, forced her to discontinue the drug to afford other necessities.
This financial burden was a common reality for many Canadians until the recent introduction of generic semaglutide at select pharmacies like Rexall and Shoppers Drug Mart locations nationwide. The generics have substantially reduced the monthly cost to around $100, sparking anticipation of increased demand in the market. Tim Brady, a pharmacist from southwestern Ontario, faced challenges in procuring the generics for his pharmacies, with some versions already on backorder shortly after release.
As the availability of generics expands, Brady foresees prices potentially dropping to as low as $75 per month, making weight-loss medication more accessible to a broader market. In response to generic competition, Novo Nordisk, the parent company of Ozempic, launched a savings card to help patients afford the brand version at a competitive cost.
While the generics offer a cost-effective alternative, Loblaw Companies Limited, the owner of Shoppers Drug Mart, cautioned that availability may vary in the early stages of the rollout. The accessibility of generics has led to a surge in demand for weight-loss consultations, emphasizing the importance of ensuring appropriate prescription based on individual health assessments.
Despite the benefits of semaglutide in reducing the risk of major cardiac events and stroke, healthcare professionals emphasize the necessity of consulting a doctor before starting the medication. For Nordstrom, the affordability of the drug is life-changing, as she plans to resume taking it for its positive impact not only on weight management but also on overall health and well-being.