A leading figure of the company behind Ozempic is calling for the expansion of federal government subsidies for the weight-loss drug.
In an address to the National Press Club yesterday, Novo Nordisk chief executive Mike Doustdar said broadening the scope of subsidies for Ozempic would have a wider health impact.
“Thinner people have less issues with health, and otherwise,” Mr Doustdar said.
“So if you’re able to help manage weight, then you actually save money elsewhere.”
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme currently subsidises Ozempic for Australians with Type 2 diabetes.
Mr Doustdar also used his Press Club address to raise the concept of the possible benefits of Ozempic for younger Australians.
This came despite the use of Ozempic not being approved in Australia for those under 18.
“It’s a ticking bomb that our children and adolescents are right now becoming more and more obese,” Doustdar said.Â
“Healthier environments, healthier schools, taking care of exercise and food intake.
“But we are also, of course, making sure that our products are being tested and tried on adolescents and making sure that they’re safe.
“So if support and help is needed on that front, it is also available so we don’t discriminate the age.”
While idea of Ozempic for children is not a popular one with most GP’s, the cost of further subsidising is another concern for those opposed, with the move potentially placing financial strain on the health system.
