Can you buy Ozempic over the counter?
No, Ozempic (semaglutide) is not available over the counter. Whether prescribed for type 2 diabetes or off-label for weight loss, a healthcare provider’s prescription is required. You can obtain a prescription through an in-person visit with your healthcare provider or via telehealth services, where an online consultation may result in a prescription if deemed appropriate.
What Are the Alternatives to Ozempic?
If Ozempic is unavailable due to cost, supply shortages, or other reasons, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative treatment.
For Type 2 diabetes:
- Rybelsus (oral semaglutide): A daily oral medication with the same active ingredient as Ozempic.
- Injectable GLP-1 agonists: Alternatives include Victoza (liraglutide), Trulicity (dulaglutide), and Byetta (exenatide).
For weight loss:
- Wegovy (semaglutide): An FDA-approved weight loss medication with the same active ingredient as Ozempic, taken as a weekly injection.
Can You Buy Ozempic at Walmart?
Although Ozempic is not sold over the counter at Walmart, it is available with a prescription. Most Walmart pharmacies carry Ozempic. Your healthcare provider can send your prescription electronically, or you can bring it in along with your insurance information.
Related questions
- Mounjaro vs Ozempic: Which is right for you?
- Ozempic Side Effects to Watch For
- What are the long-term side effects of Ozempic?
How much does Ozempic cost?
The cost of Ozempic varies based on insurance coverage. It is recommended to contact your insurance provider to determine coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
- With Insurance: The manufacturer offers a copay card, which may lower the cost to as little as $25 for a 30-day supply.
- Without insurance: The cash price with a free discount card is approximately $1,050, but this may vary based on pharmacy and location. This price is based on the Drugs.com Ozempic Price Guide.
Key Takeaways
Ozempic requires a prescription, and alternatives are available for both diabetes and weight loss management. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on treatment options and cost-saving programs.
This is not all the information you need to know about Ozempic (semaglutide) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
References
Ozempic [package insert]. Updated 2023. Novo Nordisk. Accessed 11/15/2024 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=adec4fd2-6858-4c99-91d4-531f5f2a2d79
Read next
How do Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Zepbound compare for weight loss?
Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy and Zepbound can all lead to long-term weight loss, but only Wegovy and Zepbound are approved by the FDA for this use. In studies, Zepbound has led to a 21% weight loss in adults using the highest dose, while Wegovy has led to about a 15% weight loss. Continue reading
How long does it take for Ozempic to work?
Your blood glucose (sugar) levels should start to fully decline within the first week after you start using Ozempic (semaglutide) at your regular dose. However, the full effect can take 8 weeks or longer, as this is a long-acting medication that is injected only once per week. Continue reading
Wegovy vs Ozempic: Which is Right for You?
Both Wegovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide, but Wegovy is prescribed for long-term weight management while Ozempic is used to control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes and help protect kidney function. They both lower the risk for heart-related complications, but they differ in other approved uses, doses, target populations and costs. Continue reading
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Drug information
- Ozempic Information for Consumers
- Ozempic prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Ozempic (detailed)
- Ozempic user reviews (1,538)
Related support groups
- Ozempic (107 questions, 223 members)
- Diabetes, Type 2 (501 questions, 1,426 members)