Novo Nordisk Urges FDA to Ban Compounded Versions of Ozempic and Wegovy

The pharmaceutical company argues that compounded semaglutide poses significant safety risks due to its complexity.

Novo Nordisk has requested the FDA to add semaglutide to its 'Demonstrable Difficulties for Compounding Lists,' which would prevent pharmacies from producing compounded versions of the drug.
The company cites safety concerns, including impurities and incorrect dosages, as reasons for the ban on compounded versions of its drugs Ozempic and Wegovy.
Compounded semaglutide has become popular due to shortages and high costs of the branded drugs, with compounded versions offering a more affordable alternative.
The FDA has yet to make a decision on the request, but has acknowledged potential risks associated with compounded GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide.
Novo Nordisk's action is part of a broader legal effort to curb the production and sale of unapproved versions of its weight loss and diabetes medications.