Sesame, a health-care marketplace, has introduced a new clinical weight loss program that offers compounded versions of Novo Nordisk’s popular obesity drug, Wegovy, at a more affordable price point. The program aims to address the shortage of branded weight loss and diabetes medications, such as Wegovy and Novo Nordisk’s diabetes injection Ozempic. By providing compounded semaglutide, the active ingredient in these drugs, Sesame allows eligible consumers to access obesity and diabetes treatments for $249 per month.
The introduction of compounded medications, which are typically cheaper than their branded counterparts, offers a cost-effective solution for patients. Wegovy and Ozempic, which cost around $1,000 per month before insurance coverage, can now be obtained at a significantly lower price through Sesame’s program. This accessibility is crucial, as the demand for weight loss and diabetes medications continues to rise.
Wegovy and Ozempic belong to a class of medications called GLP-1s, which are highly sought after due to their ability to suppress appetite and regulate blood sugar levels. Analysts predict that the weight loss and diabetes medication industry could generate over $100 billion in annual revenue by 2030. However, supply shortages pose a significant challenge for manufacturers like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, making it difficult for patients to access these treatments. While the lowest dose of Wegovy is currently in short supply, other doses of the drug and Ozempic are available.
Compounded medications are custom-made alternatives to branded drugs that cater to specific patient needs. They are prescribed, made, and dispensed under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. There are two classes of compounding pharmacies: 503B pharmacies, which can produce larger batches of medications without individual prescriptions, and 503A compounding pharmacies, which create custom medications for individual patients and are regulated by states. However, Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly do not supply the active ingredients in their drugs to outside groups, raising concerns about the quality and safety of compounded medications offered by other manufacturers.
Sesame initially had reservations about compounded medications due to concerns about purity and quality. However, after conducting thorough inspections of compounding pharmacies, the company decided to work with a compounding pharmacy that met their standards. The pharmacy will manufacture prefilled, single-use syringes to help patients avoid dosing errors and potential overdoses.
To participate in Sesame’s weight loss program, patients must fill out an intake form and select a healthcare provider. They will have a consultation with the provider via video, undergo lab work, and receive a prescription if deemed appropriate. Ongoing consultations will be available through video chat, along with a nutrition, fitness, and mindfulness content library.
Sesame’s new program aims to address the struggles faced by millions of Americans dealing with obesity and its associated health issues. By connecting patients with affordable medications and healthcare providers, Sesame hopes to make a positive impact on individuals’ health and well-being.
In conclusion, Sesame’s introduction of a clinical weight loss program offering compounded versions of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy at a more affordable price fills a crucial gap in the market for affordable weight loss and diabetes medications. By addressing supply shortages and providing accessible treatments, Sesame aims to improve the health outcomes of individuals struggling with obesity and related conditions.
