Rightangled, a prominent UK-based online pharmacy, is at the center of controversy for continuing the sale of Novo Nordisk’s diabetes drug Ozempic, despite a government order to cease such transactions. The website prominently displayed the drug for sale on Friday, specifically targeting individuals seeking to utilize the weekly injection for weight loss purposes.
Ozempic’s Dual Role: Blood Sugar Management and Weight Loss
While Ozempic is officially licensed in the UK for managing blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, it gained popularity last year among those without diabetes as a potential weight loss treatment. Online pharmacies have been prescribing Ozempic “off-label” for this purpose.
National Shortage and Government Directive
In July, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and the National Health Service (NHS) jointly declared a national shortage of Ozempic and all other drugs falling under the category of “GLP-1 receptor agonists.” This scarcity stems from an unprecedented surge in demand for both approved and off-label use.
The government directive explicitly instructed doctors and other prescribers, including private online pharmacies, to halt the prescription of Ozempic to individuals without type 2 diabetes, effective no later than October 18. Additionally, new patients with type 2 diabetes were barred from starting the medicine as long as the shortage persists, with an expected duration until at least mid-2024.
Defiance in Display
Rightangled’s defiance of the government directive was glaringly evident on its website, where the drug was prominently featured under the “general health: weight loss” section. The listing noted its primary purpose as “diabetes management but can aid in weight loss as off label.”
Reactions and Requests for Comment
Both Rightangled and DHSC refrained from immediate responses to requests for comments on the matter. A customer shared an email from Rightangled dated October 19, urging them to secure their supply of Ozempic before it becomes scarce again.
Broader Implications
This development prompts scrutiny of other private online pharmacies that have also prescribed Ozempic for weight loss purposes this year. The controversy surrounding Rightangled’s actions highlights the challenges of regulating off-label use and underscores the importance of adherence to government directives in the interest of public health and safety.
