Ozempic-style drugs to be given free under new health scheme
GLP-1 agonists to be distributed to patients with type 2 diabetes and BMI over 40
Patients with obesity and diabetes will be offered free weight-loss drugs through a new government scheme, the health minister has announced.
The GLP-1 agonists, better known through brand names such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, will be offered for free to patients suffering from type 2 diabetes, who also have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of over 40.
During a news conference announcing the launch, Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela said 2,000 patients will benefit from the initiative, which will cost the government around €5 million. He did not say when the scheme would begin.
Weight-loss drugs have boomed in popularity globally as fast-growing numbers of people turn to them to shed unwanted pounds. They have been proved to aid weight loss, help type 2 diabetics manage their sugar levels and prevent heart attacks and strokes.
The medication reduces blood sugar, slows gastric emptying and helps people feel less hungry.
“This medicine has been discussed extensively across the world because of the positive results for diabetes and weight control,” Abela said.
He said a brand has not been selected yet for distribution because this is still subject to tender adjudication.
Expansion plans
The minister also said that the government is looking to expand the scheme in the future to patients with a BMI of 35.
A BMI over 35 is classified as Class II obesity, while BMI of over 40 is Class III obesity and was formerly known as "morbid" obesity.
GLP-1 agonists have exploded in popularity in recent years for their ability to help people lose weight.
The drugs have also been recommended by the World Health Organisation to treat diabetes and obesity.
In September last year, it also called for cheap generic versions to be made available in developing countries.
The health minister, a surgeon by profession, told parliament last year that weight-loss surgery and medication are “cornerstones” in addressing obesity.
At the time, he said he would like to see more gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy surgeries carried out locally.