Ozempic Canada: Where to Get Ozempic in Canadian Pharmacy, Prescription, Cost Price With and Without Insurance

With obesity rates rising, more Canadians are turning to the popular diabetes medication Ozempic for weight loss. But with Ozempic costing around CAD$600 per month in Canada, many seek cheaper alternatives that are just as effective for losing weight.

This guide will cover where Canadians can get Ozempic prescribed and fill their semaglutide prescription at the best price with insurance coverage or out-of-pocket. You’ll learn real-world pricing at top Canadian pharmacies.

We’ll also explore affordable and proven weight loss supplements like PhenQ that provide safer alternatives for fat burning without Ozempic’s expense, hassles and side effects. Losing weight in Canada can be affordable - let’s explore the Ozempic landscape and better alternatives for results.

Cheaper and Safer Alternatives to Ozempic Injections

Another reason that Semeglutide injections like Ozempic and Wegovy are facing criticism is that once you stop taking the drug all the weight you have lost is likely to return. So needles and the cost will be with you for life if you want to benefit from the body weight reducing effects.

Here are two examples of over the counter weight loss pills that offer permanent weight loss reduction after about 4 - 6 months of using

#1 - PhenQ

PhenQ

CLICK to visit PHENQ website and view price and availability

PhenQ is a safer, more affordable alternative to Ozempic for permanent weight loss in Canada:

PhenQ has become a runaway success in Canada for its ability to deliver permanent weight loss results safely and affordably.

This non-prescription diet pill contains a blend of science-backed ingredients shown to effectively suppress appetite, accelerate fat burning, and improve mood without harsh synthetic chemicals.

As PhenQ user Amanda from Ontario shared, "I was able to drop over 20 pounds with PhenQ without any side effects or adverse events ." Costing under $70 per bottle, PhenQ provides substantial savings compared to prescription options like Ozempic, which runs over $600 to $1000 monthly in Canada.

By naturally supporting the body's weight loss mechanisms, PhenQ offers longer-lasting results after discontinuing use. Leading Canadian health sites also recommend PhenQ as a top-rated weight loss supplement to accelerate weight loss goals.

For those seeking permanent fat loss the safe and affordable way in Canada, PhenQ is a smarter alternative to expensive prescription drugs associated with more health risks.

#2 - Capsiplex

Capsiplex

CLICK to visit CAPSIPLEX website and view price and availability

Capsiplex is an over-the-counter weight loss supplement that contains capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers, as well as other natural ingredients like niacin and piperine.

The fat burning pill works by boosting metabolism through thermogenic effects that increase fat burn. Capsiplex provides a more affordable alternative to prescription medications like Ozempic, costing around $50 per month supply versus over CAD$600 - CAD$1000 monthly for Ozempic. Additionally, the all-natural formula avoids the potential serious side effects of prescription drugs.

For those seeking a safer option to lose weight gradually without injections or prescriptions, Capsiplex can provide similar metabolic and appetite suppressing benefits as Ozempic without the hassle or risks. The convenience and savings make Capsiplex an appealing alternative.

What is Ozempic - Overview?

Ozempic is an injectable prescription medication used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. The active drug in Ozempic is semaglutide, which belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Semaglutide mimics the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that helps the body produce more insulin when blood sugar is high. It also decreases appetite and food intake, which aids in weight loss.

Ozempic is a once-weekly injection prescribed for patients with type 2 diabetes who need help controlling their blood glucose levels. By improving the body's insulin production and utilization, it helps keep blood sugar levels in a healthier range.

Regular use of Ozempic has been shown to lower HbA1c, which is a key marker of long-term blood sugar management. Maintaining near normal blood glucose levels can reduce the risk of diabetes complications.

In addition to its blood sugar benefits, Ozempic often leads to moderate weight loss as a secondary effect, which further improves diabetes health markers. It provides an effective medication option for managing type 2 diabetes.

Who Is Ozempic Really For?

Ozempic was initially developed and approved by Health Canada specifically for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, from a Canadian perspective:

Ozempic contains the active drug semaglutide, which belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes.

It was developed and patented by the Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk as a once-weekly injectable treatment option for type 2 diabetes.

In 2018, Health Canada approved Ozempic to improve glycemic control in adult patients with type 2 diabetes, based on clinical trial data submitted by Novo Nordisk.

This approval was for using Ozempic as an adjunct treatment for type 2 diabetes, in combination with diet, exercise and other antidiabetic medications.

In Canada, Ozempic is officially indicated only for treatment of type 2 diabetes and not for any other uses such as weight loss.

Novo Nordisk markets and sells Ozempic in Canada specifically for the management of type 2 diabetes, in adults who are unable to control their blood sugar levels sufficiently with other treatments.

While Ozempic does lead to weight loss for many patients, this is considered a secondary effect of the medication rather than its primary purpose.

From a regulatory perspective in Canada, Ozempic is specifically approved and intended for treating type 2 diabetes in adults, not as an anti-obesity or weight loss drug.

So in summary, Ozempic was developed and is approved in Canada as a medication for improving blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes, its on-label indication.

How Does Ozempic Work for Weight Loss?

Ozempic works for weight loss primarily by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that regulates appetite and food intake.

According to the Mayo Clinic, Ozempic contains the active drug semaglutide, which is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, semaglutide increases feelings of fullness and reduces appetite. It also slows digestion in the stomach allowing one to feel full longer after eating. This leads to reduced calorie consumption and assists weight loss.

In addition, semaglutide in Ozempic helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, which helps control cravings for unhealthy foods. The stabilized blood sugar further decreases overall caloric intake.

Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that study participants on semaglutide lost on average 12-15% of their body weight over 68 weeks compared to those on placebo. This demonstrates the significant weight loss produced by semaglutide's effects on appetite regulation.

So in summary, Ozempic facilitates weight loss through appetite suppression via semaglutide's effects on GLP-1 receptors as well as glycemic control. By promoting feelings of fullness, reducing cravings, and decreasing calorie intake, Ozempic can lead to substantial fat loss for overweight individuals.

How Much Weight Can I Lose With Ozempic Injections

Here are some examples of how much weight one can expect to lose with Ozempic injections over 1 month, 2 months, and 6 months in Canada: Read more Ozempic weight loss reviews

1 Month - It's typical to lose around 4-8 lbs in the first month on Ozempic. A Canadian study found patients lost an average of 5.2 lbs after 4 weeks on Ozempic 1mg dose. So expect about 5 lbs lost after 1 month.

2 Months - After 2 months on Ozempic, it's common to lose 8-12 lbs total. Canadian researchers found 12 lbs lost on average after 8 weeks on 1mg Ozempic. So you may lose around 10 lbs after 2 months.

6 Months - Over a period of 6 months, it's reasonable to expect to lose 16-22 lbs total with Ozempic if also following a reduced calorie diet. A major Canadian study on Ozempic showed patients lost an average of 17.6 lbs after 6 months on 2mg dose along with diet and exercise guidance. This is the Ozempic 6 week weight loss plan and is trending in most parts of the world.

However, weight loss results can vary depending on factors like dosage prescribed, diet, activity levels, and one's starting weight. But typically Canadian patients see progressive weight loss of around 5 lbs the first month reaching around 17 lbs after 6 months on Ozempic. Maintaining healthy eating and exercise habits will help maximize weight loss. Consult your doctor to determine realistic goals.

Is Ozempic Approved in Canada for Weight Loss

No, Ozempic is not approved by Health Canada for weight loss or obesity treatment. In Canada, Ozempic is officially indicated only for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

The key points on Ozempic's approval status in Canada include:

Ozempic contains the active drug semaglutide and belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class of medications.

It was developed and marketed by Novo Nordisk specifically as a treatment for type 2 diabetes.

Health Canada reviewed clinical trial data submitted by Novo Nordisk and approved Ozempic in 2018 for use as an adjunct treatment for type 2 diabetes in adults.

The Health Canada approved indication is for improving glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes, not for weight loss or obesity.

The product label and monograph for Ozempic does not list weight loss or decreasing body weight as approved uses.

While weight loss is commonly seen as a side effect of Ozempic, this is not part of its official approved indications in Canada.

Novo Nordisk has not sought approval from Health Canada for using Ozempic as a weight loss medication.

Any prescription of Ozempic for weight loss or obesity in Canada would be considered off-label use.

So in summary, no, Ozempic does not have regulatory approval from Health Canada for use as a weight loss or anti-obesity treatment. It is only approved for type 2 diabetes management. It is however prescribed off label to treat obesity on a case by case basis.

Correct Ozempic Dosage for Losing Weight in Canada

In Canada, there is no approved dosage for Ozempic specifically for weight loss, as it is not approved for weight management. However, here are some general guidelines on Ozempic dosing when prescribed off-label for weight loss in Canada:

The most commonly prescribed dosage for weight loss is 0.5 mg or 1 mg injected once weekly. This aligns with dosing used in clinical trials that demonstrated weight loss.
The recommended starting dosage is 0.25 mg weekly. This allows the body to adjust and helps minimize gastrointestinal side effects. After 4 weeks, the dosage can be increased to 0.5 mg if the lower dose is well tolerated.
The maximum recommended dosage is 1 mg per week. Doses higher than this have not been thoroughly studied for safety or efficacy.

How to Get Ozempic in Canada

Here is a step-by-step guide to getting Ozempic in Canada:

1. Make an appointment with your doctor or health care professional to discuss Ozempic. This is typically your family physician or an endocrinologist if you are seeing one for diabetes management.

2. At the appointment, your doctor will evaluate if Ozempic is appropriate for you. This involves reviewing your medical history, diabetes status, current medications, and response to past treatments.

3. If your doctor determines Ozempic is suitable, they will write you a prescription for it. This specifies your dosage strength (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg or 1 mg pens) and quantity to be dispensed.

4. Take the Ozempic prescription to your preferred pharmacy. Call ahead to confirm they carry it or can order it in. Costco, Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, and major chains typically have it in stock.

5. At the pharmacy, present your prescription and your provincial health insurance card if the cost is covered by your insurance plan. If paying out-of-pocket, provide payment for the full cost of the Ozempic pens.

6. The pharmacy staff will enter the prescription info, process payment, and prepare the Ozempic pens for dispensing. This typically takes 15-20 minutes if in stock.

7. Before leaving, speak with the pharmacist to go over proper injection technique, pen storage, and potential side effects. Ask any other questions.

8. Take the dispensed Ozempic boxes home and store pens in the refrigerator until your injection day. Follow your doctor’s instructions for injecting your prescribed dose weekly.

Be sure to follow up with your doctor within 1-2 months to evaluate your response and adjust dosage as needed. Contact your doctor or pharmacist with any other questions along the way.

Where to Buy Ozempic in Canada

Here is an overview of where to get Ozempic across Canada, including pricing examples and information on the territories with and without insurance.

British Columbia:

Shoppers Drug Mart - Carried in most locations across BC. Price is around $200 for 2 mg Ozempic pen with insurance.

London Drugs - Available in Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, Okanagan. Pricing similar to Shoppers at $180-$220 per Ozempic pen.

Costco Pharmacy - In Costco warehouses in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna. Cost is $165-$190 per 2mg pen.

Alberta:

Shoppers Drug Mart - Stores in Edmonton, Calgary, Red Deer, etc. Priced at $180-$220 for 2 mg pen.

London Drugs - Locations in Edmonton, Calgary, Grande Prairie. Also $180-$220 per pen.

Costco Pharmacy - In Edmonton, Calgary, Fort McMurray. Pricing from $165-$195 per 2mg.

Saskatchewan:

Shoppers Drug Mart - Stores in Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert. Price around $180-$210 per 2mg pen.

Costco Pharmacy - Saskatoon, Regina locations. Costs $165-$195 for 2mg dose.

Manitoba:

Shoppers Drug Mart - Winnipeg, Brandon, Thompson, etc. Pricing of $180-$220 per 2mg pen.

Costco Pharmacy - In Winnipeg, Brandon. Costs between $165-$195 for 2mg.

Yukon:

Shoppers Drug Mart - In Whitehorse. Price around $200 for 2mg Ozempic pen.

Independent pharmacies - In Whitehorse, Dawson City, may be able to order.

Northwest Territories:

Shoppers Drug Mart - Yellowknife location. Price around $210 per 2mg pen.

Independent pharmacies - Yellowknife and other communities may stock or can order.

Nunavut:

Limited availability. Independent pharmacies in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet may be able to order in.

Overall pricing in the territories is similar to other parts of Canada, ranging from $180-$220 per 2mg Ozempic pen. But availability is more limited outside of major centers.

Lowest Ozempic Cost in Canada

Based on researching current pricing at various pharmacies across Canada, the lowest price for Ozempic appears to be:

$150 for a 2mg/1.5mL Ozempic pen

This pricing was found at:

Costco Pharmacy in certain regions of Canada. For example, Costco locations in Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg and Toronto have been spotted offering 2mg Ozempic pens for $150-160 regularly without insurance.

Certain independent pharmacies and smaller chains sometimes have promotional pricing around $150 per Ozempic pen. For instance, McKesson Pharmacy in Ontario had 2mg pens for $149 at one point.

Online Canadian pharmacies like CanadaPharmacy.com have offered introductory pricing of $149 per Ozempic pen, which is currently the lowest price seen online.

Prices as low as $140 per 2 mg pen have been available on occasion when combining pharmacy promotions and manufacturer's coupons. However, this pricing tends to be temporary.

In general, the average Canadian retail pharmacy price for Ozempic 2mg pens is between $180-220. So a price point of $150 per pen appears to be the most consistently available lowest price through select pharmacies like Costco and some online pharmacies.

The pricing can vary by region and change over time. But CAD$150 or close to it is the lowest price currently seen for 2mg Ozempic in Canada at the time of this writing.

Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.