Possible long-term consequences for patients with diabetes forced to switch to alternative medications during the semaglutide shortage include the risk of losing ground in glycemic control, having uncontrolled diabetes with associated symptoms, and other adverse events.
According to Ian Neeland, MD, there are 2 main reasons for the shortage of injectable semaglutide: the fact that oral semaglutide has not yet been tested for weight loss, and that most practitioners just overlook it as an option.
Ian Neeland, MD, of University Hospitals Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute, describes challenges patients with diabetes face during the semaglutide shortage and alternative options he gives his patients to prevent therapy disruptions.