Canada Gains Access to Wegovy®, a New Treatment Option for Obesity

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

Novo Nordisk has officially announced that Wegovy® (semaglutide injection), a treatment for obesity, will be available in Canada starting May 6, 2024, for individuals meeting the Health Canada approved product monograph's criteria. This marks a significant step in addressing the needs of over 8 million Canadian adults living with obesity, a chronic disease known for its complexity and severe impact on health.

Wegovy® is the first and only Health Canada-approved medication designed for chronic weight management to be administered once weekly. Novo Nordisk aims to collaborate closely with healthcare providers and regulators to monitor the demand and supply of the medication, ensuring that patients who begin treatment can maintain their regimen without interruptions.

Obesity in Canada is not only prevalent but also fraught with bias and stigma, contributing to worsening health outcomes. “In Canada, over one in four adults aged 18 and older grapple with the complexities of obesity, a pressing health concern. It's imperative that those living with obesity receive the support and care they rightly deserve," stated Priti Chawla, Executive Director of Obesity Matters. She emphasized the importance of transforming the narrative around obesity from blame and shame to empowerment and inclusion.

Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Sean Wharton, an internal medicine physician and weight management specialist, remarked, “Let’s end the blame and shame associated with obesity and recognize that obesity is a complicated genetic medical condition, and not a self-imposed personal failure.” He highlighted the importance of comprehensive approaches, including lifestyle changes, self-care, and medical interventions like Wegovy®.

Dr. Sanjeev Sockalingam, Scientific Director of Obesity Canada, pointed out the urgent need for accessible, bias-free obesity care that includes a range of interventions from medical nutrition therapy and physical activity to pharmacotherapy and surgery. "Obesity is a serious medical condition and an area of high unmet need. People living with obesity deserve bias-free access to evidence-based care," he said.

Elevate Your Expertise: Tune in to Our YouTube Channel for Exclusive Podcasts with fitness and wellness Industry Titans and Game-Changers