High demand for weight-loss and diabetes drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy has led to a shortage in manufacturing. In the meantime, a market for cheaper, compounded drugs thrives.
Prescription weight loss drugs have become so popular in the United States that suppliers have struggled to keep up. Jean Readdy, a retired teacher living in Sinking Spring, Pennsylvania, is among the one in eight Americans who have tried a for weight loss or diabetes, more commonly known by brand names like
Readdy, who has struggled with her weight for most of her life, told CBS News her weight affected her self-esteem and how she moved through the world.
« I didn’t like going out places », Readdy admitted.
She reached her highest weight last October, right as her son was about to be married.
« I was embarrassed for him and I was embarrassed for myself », said Readdy.
Now, she’s one of a growing number of people : reformulated versions the FDA has permitted pharmacies to distribute during an of brand-name drugs.
Readdy’s decision to switch from a name brand to a compounded drug came down to price and availability. Paying wasn’t sustainable, and it was becoming impossible to find, she said.
And she’s not alone.
Readdy turned to online communities where thousands of people shared resources and where to find the drugs in short supply.
