Ozempic, a medication intended for patients with type 2 diabetes, is facing shortages across Europe due to its off-label use as a weight-loss treatment. Semaglutide, the drug’s active ingredient, has been shown to promote weight loss, leading to increased demand from individuals seeking to lose weight rather than manage diabetes. This surge in demand has resulted in frequent stockouts in pharmacies, raising concerns about inappropriate prescribing practices.
In response to the shortages, health authorities in Luxembourg have restricted Ozempic prescriptions to patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Doctors are now required to verify that patients meet this criterion before issuing a prescription.
However, Minister of Health and Social Security Martine Deprez revealed in her response to a parliamentary question submitted by MPs André Bauler and Gérard Schockmel of the Democratic Party (DP) that at least one doctor in the country appears to have disregarded this rule.
To address potential misuse, the National Health Fund (CNS) conducts retrospective checks based on reimbursement data. “If there is a suspicion of unjustified reimbursement, the CNS will carry out further investigations in collaboration with the Social Security Medical Board (CMSS),” explained Minister Deprez. Cases involving breaches of legal, regulatory, or contractual provisions are referred to the CNS Supervisory Committee for review.
So far, the CNS has referred only one doctor to the Supervisory Committee regarding Ozempic reimbursements. The Medical Board, represented on the committee, has been informed of the case and will oversee further action.
