Patient Information: Stock Shortages – Injectable and Oral GLP-1 Analogues (Dulaglutide, Exenatide, Semaglutide, Liraglutide, Lixisenatide)
This information is designed for people taking a GLP-1 analogue for type 2 diabetes.
Why have I been sent this information?
You have been sent this as we have identified you are taking a GLP-1 analogue for type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 analogues include: Dulaglutide (Trulicity®), Exenatide (Byetta® or Bydureon®), Semaglutide (Ozempic® or Rybelsus®), Liraglutide (Victoza®), Lixisenatide (Lyxumia®).
Unfortunately, there are widespread national stock shortages with all of these agents.
Why are there drug shortages?
Shortages are due to increased demand for these drugs.
When will these shortages be resolved?
Supply is not expected to return until at least the middle of 2024 but these dates are subject to change.
What should you I do during this time with my diabetes medication?
You should continue taking all your diabetes medication as normal, including your GLP-1 analogue if you have a supply.
Will I need a review for my diabetes?
You may need an earlier review for your diabetes. However due to the limited availability of appointments at this time we will do our best to facilitate timely reviews. We may ask for a monitoring blood test sooner than planned.
Will my diabetes treatment need to change?
Your diabetes treatment may need to be changed in view of the shortage. The team who normally manage your diabetes will contact you if this is necessary and discuss options.
Where can I get further information about this?
We do not have any further information about the shortage or return to stock dates and we are dealing with a high volume of calls. Please bear this in mind before considering contacting your GP or specialist diabetes team.
What do I do if I feel unwell?
If you feel unwell with symptoms of high blood glucose, e.g., feeling very thirsty, peeing a lot, feeling weak or tired, blurred vision or losing weight, please seek a GP appointment at the earliest opportunity.
Please call 111 for help if you think you have high blood glucose and; you’re feeling sick, being sick or have stomach pain, you’re breathing more quickly than usual or your heart is beating faster than usual, you feel drowsy or are struggling to stay awake, your breath has a fruity smell (like pear drop sweets), you feel confused or have difficulty concentrating, you have a high level of ketones in your blood or pee. These could be signs you are becoming very unwell.