You've little doubt heard of Ozympic, but have you ever heard of Vigovi? Both are brand names for the drug semaglutide, which is currently briefly supply worldwide.
Ozempic is a low dose of semaglutide, and is Approved and is used to treat diabetes in Australia. It's vegooooo. Approved for the treatment of obesity but just isn't yet available in Australia. The shortage of each drugs is predicted to finish. Throughout 2024.
Both drugs are expensive. But Ozympic is. listed On Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Schedule (PBS), individuals with diabetes can subsequently get a three-week supply for A$31.60 ($7.70 discount cardholders) as an alternative of full price ($133.80).
Vigovi just isn't listed on the PBS for treating obesity, meaning that when it becomes available, users may have to pay the complete price. But should the federal government subsidize it?
The manufacturer of the Vigovi might want to make a case for its inclusion within the PBS. Independent Advisory Committee. The company might want to exhibit that Vigovi is a protected, clinically effective and cost-effective treatment for obesity in comparison with existing alternatives.
In the meantime, we asked five experts: When supplies resume, should governments subsidize weight-loss drugs like Ozempic?