A provider-focused briefing on the Ozempic (semaglutide) shortage resolution, current availability, prescribing implications, and patient access tools for 2026.
The semaglutide supply crisis that defined clinical practice from 2022 to 2025 has largely resolved. The FDA removed semaglutide injection products from its drug shortage list on February 21, 2025, and manufacturing capacity has caught up with demand. However, prescribers should remain aware of ongoing access challenges, cost barriers, and the evolving GLP-1 landscape.
This article provides a concise overview of where things stand and what providers need to know to support their patients effectively.
The semaglutide injection shortage was one of the most prolonged drug shortages in recent FDA history:
Throughout this period, providers faced the dual challenge of managing patient expectations while navigating a fragmented supply landscape.
With supply now stabilized, several prescribing considerations remain relevant:
Ozempic is available in three pen configurations: 0.25 mg/0.5 mg (initiation pen), 1 mg, and 2 mg. While overall supply is adequate, the 2 mg pen may still experience sporadic availability issues in some regions. When initiating therapy, the standard titration schedule (0.25 mg × 4 weeks → 0.5 mg × 4 weeks → 1 mg, with optional increase to 2 mg) should be followed without the dose-skipping workarounds that were sometimes necessary during the shortage.
Patients who transitioned to compounded semaglutide during the shortage need to be moved back to FDA-approved products. Compounding pharmacies can no longer legally produce semaglutide since the shortage resolution. Providers should proactively reach out to patients who may still be receiving compounded product through previously established prescriptions.
Most commercial insurance plans require prior authorization for Ozempic, and many mandate step therapy (typically requiring a trial of metformin). Medicare Part D covers Ozempic for diabetes indications. Providers should be prepared to submit clinical documentation supporting medical necessity, particularly for patients requiring the 2 mg dose.
As of early 2026, Ozempic availability is generally good across the United States:
For real-time availability data, Medfinder for Providers offers a tool that can help clinical teams direct patients to pharmacies with confirmed stock.
Cost remains a significant barrier for many patients:
Providers should routinely screen for insurance coverage gaps and connect patients with available savings programs at the point of prescribing. For a provider-specific cost guide, see How to Help Patients Save Money on Ozempic.
Medfinder's provider tools allow clinical teams to check real-time Ozempic availability at pharmacies near the patient's location. This can be integrated into the prescribing workflow to reduce fill failures and improve first-fill success rates.
When Ozempic is not the best fit — whether due to availability, cost, or clinical factors — consider these alternatives:
See our clinical comparison: Alternatives to Ozempic.
The GLP-1 market continues to expand rapidly. Several developments are worth monitoring:
The semaglutide shortage tested providers and patients alike for nearly three years. In 2026, the supply picture is significantly improved, but the challenges of cost, insurance barriers, and patient education remain. Staying informed about availability tools, savings programs, and therapeutic alternatives allows providers to deliver the best possible care to their patients with type 2 diabetes.
Visit Medfinder for Providers for real-time availability tools, and explore our provider's guide to helping patients find Ozempic for practical workflow tips.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
Try Medfinder Concierge FreeMedfinder's mission is to ensure every patient gets access to the medications they need. We believe this begins with trustworthy information. Our core values guide everything we do, including the standards that shape the accuracy, transparency, and quality of our content. We’re committed to delivering information that’s evidence-based, regularly updated, and easy to understand. For more details on our editorial process, see here.
%2C%20Color%3DOriginal.png)
