GLP-1 Shortages
Two Medicines Supply Notifications have been disseminated this week warning of supply chain shortages for two GLP-1 reception agonists, namely dulaglutide (Trulicity®) and semaglutide (Ozempic®).
The notification for dulaglutide advises that all strengths of this product will have limited supplies until at least January 2023. It is noted that current supplies should be able to maintain existing patient but it is recommended that no new patients are commenced on this treatment at this time. Further information is available from the Specialist Pharmacy Service for dulaglutide (registration required).
The notification for semaglutide advises that the 1mg strength is out of stock currently until mid-October. Thereafter, it will remain in limited supplies until at least January 2023. Using lower strengths will only partially support demand and it is again recommended that no new patients are commenced on this treatment at this time. Further information is available from the Specialist Pharmacy Service for semaglutide (registration required).
It should be noted that exentide and liraglutide are currently unaffected by this issue, however the change in drug choice may have impacts on the frequency or method of administration and therefore if switching is being considered it should be undertaken with patient involvement. It should also be considered that wholesale changes may unnecessarily stress other drug formulations in the supply chain.
Action: Clinicians should be aware of the supply shortages of dulaglutide and semaglutide. As recommended, no new patients should be commenced on these therapies at this time. If treatment intensification is necessary to manage blood glucose levels alternative treatments may need to be considered and used.
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