CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) – Medicare may soon cover weight loss and diabetes drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
These medications were included in a list of 15 drugs that the government plans to negotiate prices for. The goal is to reach an agreement between the government and drug manufacturers over the cost of these popular treatments.
Dr. Cate Varney, an Obesity Management Specialist, highlighted that these drugs offer significant benefits for people who need them, especially when cost is a major barrier. “Multiple studies show that cost prevents many patients from starting or continuing these medications,” Dr. Varney explained.
While Ozempic is primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes, it also has other benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and improving kidney health. Although Ozempic is not officially a weight loss medication, many people use it to shed pounds.
“About 20% of medications in the U.S. are used off-label, meaning they’re used for purposes beyond their initial approval, because people see benefits beyond just controlling blood sugar,” Dr. Varney said.
Several third-party websites have been selling their own versions of weight loss drugs or GLP-1 medications. However, Dr. Varney stresses the importance of obtaining these drugs from a medical provider to ensure safety and reliability. “FDA-approved medications have gone through rigorous testing to prove they are both safe and effective,” she said.
Despite their benefits, these drugs are not a “magic cure.” Dr. Varney emphasized that they work best when combined with lifestyle changes, including a healthier diet and increased physical activity.
She recommends consulting a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
