GLP-1 analogues for type 2 diabetes

There is a worldwide shortage of injectable and oral GLP-1 analogue receptor agonist (GLP-1s) medicines for type 2 diabetes. These include Dulaglutide (Trulicity®), Exenatide (Byetta® or Bydureon®), Semaglutide (Ozempic® or Rybelsus®), Liraglutide (Victoza®) and Lixisenatide (Lyxumia®).

Due to increased global use, manufacturers are currently unable to produce enough of these diabetic injectable medicines to meet demand. Supply is not expected to return to normal until at least the middle of 2024.

All patients using GLP-1 analogues will be contacted over the coming weeks to arrange a medication review and a blood test. It is important to attend the practice or hospital when you receive this request.

Please remember that GLP-1 RAs should only be obtained on prescription from registered pharmacies.  It is illegal to obtain GLP-1 RA without a prescription and there is a risk that the medicine may not be genuine.

If you feel unwell with symptoms of high blood glucose, please seek medical help as normal. For general queries about how long the shortage will last, please remember this is beyond our control and we are dealing with a high volume of calls.