Copenhagen, Denmark – The CEO of Novo Nordisk, Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, defended the high cost of Ozempic and Wegovy in the United States, arguing that these medications play a crucial role in reducing the economic burden of obesity-related healthcare expenses on taxpayers. Jørgensen pointed out that obesity costs Americans over $400 billion annually, and by providing effective products like Ozempic and Wegovy, Novo Nordisk is helping to alleviate some of these significant costs.
As the debate surrounding the pricing of Novo Nordisk’s diabetes and weight loss drugs intensifies, Jørgensen is set to testify before a Senate committee next month. Senators, including Bernie Sanders, have raised concerns about the stark discrepancy in drug prices between the US and other countries, with prices for Wegovy reaching $1,300 a month in the US compared to significantly lower prices in countries like Denmark, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
While the high cost of obesity care in the US is a pressing issue, experts like Stacie Dusetzina from Vanderbilt University caution that the current prices of drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may not result in overall healthcare spending savings. Despite the potential health benefits of these medications, the financial burden on patients remains a significant concern.
Jørgensen acknowledges the complexities of the US healthcare system and emphasizes the role of insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers in determining drug prices and patient out-of-pocket costs. The influence of pharmacy benefit managers on drug costs has drawn scrutiny from regulatory bodies like the Federal Trade Commission, as concerns grow over the impact on patient affordability.
While the value of medications like Ozempic and Wegovy in preventing obesity-related diseases is evident, questions remain about the long-term cost-effectiveness and sustainability of these treatments. Cynthia Cox from KFF highlights the need for ongoing evaluation of the costs and benefits of weight loss drugs to ensure that patients receive optimal care without facing financial hardship.