I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

I dropped into Chemist Warehouse this week and confirm the 1mg blue pen is available, however the 0.5mg red pen is not and unlikely to be available in Australia until the end of 2024.

When I said I could not start up again on the full 1mg a week and suggested that perhaps I could use half the 1mg dose instead, the pharmacist bluntly said no.

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

I dropped into Chemist Warehouse this week and confirm the 1mg blue pen is available, however the 0.5mg red pen is not and unlikely to be available in Australia until the end of 2024.

When I said I could not start up again on the full 1mg a week and suggested that perhaps I could use half the 1mg dose instead, the pharmacist bluntly said no.

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

Thank you, I will do just that.

I do not have spare needles but did some fast searching and located the following on Amazon's Australian site (shipped from the US), so ordered a box

ONE-CARE Pen Needles 32G x 5mm, Box of 100, Universal Fit

They fit Ozempic pens and come in a box of 100 which means that should there be a break in supply of 1mg doses later in the year I know I can restart and "ramp up" my dose as though I had the lower dose red pen.

Thank you all.

------------------------------
Peter

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 19:59
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

Original Message:
Sent: 1/24/2024 3:53:00 AM
From: Peter
Subject: RE: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I dropped into Chemist Warehouse this week and confirm the 1mg blue pen is available, however the 0.5mg red pen is not and unlikely to be available in Australia until the end of 2024.

When I said I could not start up again on the full 1mg a week and suggested that perhaps I could use half the 1mg dose instead, the pharmacist bluntly said no.

------------------------------
Peter

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 09:22
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

Re-using needles is not a good idea. I have seen micro-photographs of needle tips after a single use and they were quite scary.

Are you in NDSS? Under NDSS needles are free, as Alan stated. If you can get them, I recommend Novofine needles.

------------------------------
Paul D
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 20:33
From: Peter
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

Thank you, I will do just that.

I do not have spare needles but did some fast searching and located the following on Amazon's Australian site (shipped from the US), so ordered a box

ONE-CARE Pen Needles 32G x 5mm, Box of 100, Universal Fit

They fit Ozempic pens and come in a box of 100 which means that should there be a break in supply of 1mg doses later in the year I know I can restart and "ramp up" my dose as though I had the lower dose red pen.

Thank you all.

------------------------------
Peter

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 19:59
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

Original Message:
Sent: 1/24/2024 3:53:00 AM
From: Peter
Subject: RE: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I dropped into Chemist Warehouse this week and confirm the 1mg blue pen is available, however the 0.5mg red pen is not and unlikely to be available in Australia until the end of 2024.

When I said I could not start up again on the full 1mg a week and suggested that perhaps I could use half the 1mg dose instead, the pharmacist bluntly said no.

------------------------------
Peter

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 09:22
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

Re-using needles is not a good idea. I have seen micro-photographs of needle tips after a single use and they were quite scary.

Are you in NDSS? Under NDSS needles are free, as Alan stated. If you can get them, I recommend Novofine needles.

------------------------------
Paul D

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 20:33
From: Peter
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

Thank you, I will do just that.

I do not have spare needles but did some fast searching and located the following on Amazon's Australian site (shipped from the US), so ordered a box

ONE-CARE Pen Needles 32G x 5mm, Box of 100, Universal Fit

They fit Ozempic pens and come in a box of 100 which means that should there be a break in supply of 1mg doses later in the year I know I can restart and "ramp up" my dose as though I had the lower dose red pen.

Thank you all.

------------------------------
Peter

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 19:59
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

Original Message:
Sent: 1/24/2024 3:53:00 AM
From: Peter
Subject: RE: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I dropped into Chemist Warehouse this week and confirm the 1mg blue pen is available, however the 0.5mg red pen is not and unlikely to be available in Australia until the end of 2024.

When I said I could not start up again on the full 1mg a week and suggested that perhaps I could use half the 1mg dose instead, the pharmacist bluntly said no.

------------------------------
Peter

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 09:22
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

Your needles should be free from your chemist I get a box of 100 

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

Your needles should be free from your chemist I get a box of 100 

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

NDSS does not cover needles for Type 2 diabetics

Your needles should be free from your chemist I get a box of 100 

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

NDSS does not cover needles for Type 2 diabetics

Your needles should be free from your chemist I get a box of 100 

I have a script for both the 1mg and the 0.5mg.  I was at the chemist yesterday and they still had no 0.5 so I got the 1mg.
I only pay $7.70 as I am a pensioner.
My BSL  normally ranges from high 6's to mid 8's mmol depending on how my diet & exercise goes.

I tried the 1mg and the side effects were too severe so that's when my GP recommended I go back to the 0.5mg and hence the research.

The 1mg pack only comes with the 4 needles so if I am going to inject the 0.5 and use new needle every time then I need 8.
Not an issue at this stage as I have spares but if I can get the 0.5mg/0.25mg pack it has 6 needles so that leaves me with two spare for later use.

The information I provided was from Canada but I deemed it relevant for my needs.

I live in regional Qld so supply is not as good as the Big Smoke.

------------------------------
Ron

Original Message:
Sent: 24-01-2024 08:47
From: Alan
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I started off on 0.5 mg but after the first month i moved up to the 1.0mg. What is your mmol reading ? I have scripts for both but when I went to the chemist the other day they say that they now have plenty so not to worry about them running out. I pay $7.70 per script not the $207.00 the normal price.

------------------------------
Alan

Original Message:
Sent: 23-01-2024 11:57
From: Ronald
Subject: OZempic shortage and workarounds

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

------------------------------
Ronald
------------------------------

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

Hi Ronald,

A response from one of our Health Professionals below. 

The supply of the medication Ozempic to patients with diabetes has been a little erratic to say the least , especially in the last 1-2 years.

In addition to the short supply of Ozempic, there is much confusion regarding the usage and dosage etc  of this medication.

Ozempic medication is in injection form and is a titrating dose which is dialled up as prescribed by a doctor.

In Australia , all medications are approved by TGA prior to being available to be prescribed by doctors or to be purchased from a retail outlet, eg: pharmacy.

I would encourage all people with diabetes using Ozempic medication to be only guided by their general practitioner or medical specialist, on all aspects of suitability of the medication to individuals and dosage etc of Ozempic Medication.

In addition, be very careful of social media posts relating to anything written or providing advice on Ozempic and dosage of . For a couple of reasons.

1. The posts on social media can be posted form any country on an international basis. Every country has its own specific prescribing and dosing regulations and laws. Which can differ from the laws and regulations in Australia.

2. And as  importantly , The information posted on these forums  can come from people who are not medically trained

In summary:

Best solution with anything  relating to the medication Ozempic  is be only  guided my your general practitioner or medical specialist

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.

Hi Ronald,

A response from one of our Health Professionals below. 

The supply of the medication Ozempic to patients with diabetes has been a little erratic to say the least , especially in the last 1-2 years.

In addition to the short supply of Ozempic, there is much confusion regarding the usage and dosage etc  of this medication.

Ozempic medication is in injection form and is a titrating dose which is dialled up as prescribed by a doctor.

In Australia , all medications are approved by TGA prior to being available to be prescribed by doctors or to be purchased from a retail outlet, eg: pharmacy.

I would encourage all people with diabetes using Ozempic medication to be only guided by their general practitioner or medical specialist, on all aspects of suitability of the medication to individuals and dosage etc of Ozempic Medication.

In addition, be very careful of social media posts relating to anything written or providing advice on Ozempic and dosage of . For a couple of reasons.

1. The posts on social media can be posted form any country on an international basis. Every country has its own specific prescribing and dosing regulations and laws. Which can differ from the laws and regulations in Australia.

2. And as  importantly , The information posted on these forums  can come from people who are not medically trained

In summary:

Best solution with anything  relating to the medication Ozempic  is be only  guided my your general practitioner or medical specialist

I am a type 2 diabetic.  I have been using this drug on and off now for 2 years but it is so often in short or no supply.

This week I found that the 1mg dose is more readily available than the 0.5mg.  I had asked my pharmacist if I could use the 1mg pen to inject a 0.5mg dose.  I answer was no.

This morning I found this document chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bcdiabetes.ca/wp-content/uploads/bcdpdfs/Semaglutide-05-mg-weekly-dosing-265day.pdf

In short it says 

Instruct the patient as follows.  "You will be dispensed two pens, each containing 2 mg of semaglutide.  The box the pen comes in will say Ozempic1 mg.  This will cost approximately $207 (including dispensing fee).  Have no fear, at a dose of 0.5 mg weekly this will last you 8 weeks.  Each pen is designed to be used to give 1.0mg weekly, not less - as such there is no demarcation of 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 mg.  If you count the clicks (notches on the pen) as you turn the dosing dial you will notice that there are approximately78 clicks for 1.0 mg.  To give yourself 0.5 mg turn the dosing dial to 38 clicks and administer! You will notice at around 38 clicks the notch on the dosing dial is subtly different.  To give yourself the starting dose of 0.25 mg you will need to give yourself 19 clicks.

This means that if I want 0.5mg I will need to count 38 clicks and this pen should then last twice as long.  I will need extra needles but I had been saving the unused ones for some reason and now I know why.  Hopefully with a prescription for both 0.5 and 1mg I can cover supply issues!

I hope this helps someone else.