Novo Nordisk splurged on obesity doctors to promote Ozempic, Wegovy in US, says report

Over the past 10 years, Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk spent $25.8 million recruiting influential obesity doctors in the US to promote its recently famous weight loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy and Saxenda, finds Reuters.

Millions spent
Further analysis reveals that out of 109 people involved in crafting five prominent obesity-treatment guidelines, 53 received payments from obesity drug companies, and Novo was the largest spender, pitching in $8 million of the $12.4 million spent on these individuals.

Payments were given to physicians for drug promotion and consultation, and their travel and stays were taken care of. 

Why is this problematic?
While drug makers paying health experts for their services is legal, critics argue such practices may compromise patient care and contribute to unnecessary healthcare costs.

Side effects: US and European regulators have scrutinized these weight loss drugs over a possible link to suicidal thoughts. Some doctors warn that the long-term health effects of overprescribing these powerful drugs will take years to uncover.

Concerns are also growing over the rare side effects of stomach paralysis and intestinal blockage associated with Wegovy.

Physicians say comprehensive lifestyle interventions and proper medical oversight are necessary for patients taking obesity drugs. They also emphasize the importance of guidance on nutrition, strength training and mental health.

Cost effects: For example, a month’s supply of weekly Wegovy injection costs $1,300 in America, but it is three to four times cheaper in Europe. Novo has marked up the prices as it knew that the US has a high prevalence of obesity, the report claims.

With more doctors recommending and prescribing its weight loss drugs, Novo’s profits will continue to soar. It is already Europe’s most valuable company, worth about €420 billion.