Weight loss injections have become a popular medical option for severe obesity in Germany, with three approved medications available for those with a BMI of 30 or higher. These treatments are typically not covered by health insurance, leading to significant costs. A prescription is mandatory, and purchasing injections online poses risks of counterfeit products. Caution is advised, as unregulated options may contain harmful ingredients. Expert insights on various medications, including Ozempic and Wegovy, are also discussed.
In recent years, weight loss injections have gained popularity as a medical solution for individuals struggling with severe obesity. Before embarking on this treatment journey, it is crucial to understand the legal, medical, and financial implications. This article will provide you with essential information about weight loss injections and guide you on the process of obtaining them in Germany.
Reading tip: Discover insights on Ozempic, Wegovy, and more: The verdict from Stiftung Warentest regarding weight loss injections.
Available Weight Loss Injections in Germany
Germany currently has three approved weight loss injections aimed at assisting individuals with significant weight challenges who do not have diabetes. These medications work by curbing appetite, facilitating sustainable weight loss. It’s important to note that prescriptions for these injections are restricted to individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 30, or at least 27 if they have additional weight-related health issues, such as hypertension. In certain circumstances, obese children aged twelve and weighing a minimum of 60 kilograms may also be eligible for treatment.
Understanding the Costs and Accessibility of Weight Loss Injections
The cost of weight loss injections is a pivotal factor to consider when choosing this treatment option. Classified as lifestyle medications, these injections are typically not covered by health insurance, meaning that patients must finance the treatment themselves. The expenses can be substantial:
Higher dosages lead to increased costs, creating a financial burden for many. To navigate these expenses, some doctors may prescribe the diabetes medication Ozempic, which is more affordable but is officially intended solely for diabetes management in Germany. In July 2023, the Federal Institute for Drugs reiterated that Ozempic is specifically designated for diabetics. However, some practitioners prescribe it off-label for overweight patients, raising ethical concerns and potentially affecting availability for actual diabetes patients.
Is It Possible to Buy Weight Loss Injections Without a Prescription?
In short, the answer is no. In Germany, weight loss injections such as Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda require a prescription. This means that a healthcare professional must evaluate your health status before you can obtain these medications. Therefore, purchasing these injections over the counter at pharmacies or through online channels is not legally permissible.
Reading tip: Explore insights on Ozempic, Wegovy, and more: The verdict from Stiftung Warentest regarding weight loss injections.
Exercise Caution When Considering Online Purchases of Weight Loss Injections
Despite stringent regulations, many online vendors offer weight loss injections or similar alternatives. However, caution is necessary. Claudia Michael, a pharmaceutical expert at Stiftung Warentest, strongly advises against self-purchasing weight loss injections online, stating, “Often these are counterfeits.” These counterfeit products may contain harmful substances or incorrect dosages, posing severe health risks.
For instance, authorities issued warnings about counterfeit Ozempic pens that contained insulin instead of the intended active ingredient, semaglutide, which could be life-threatening. Additionally, various products, such as the injection solution ‘Lemonbottle’ from a Korean manufacturer, claim to eliminate fat deposits, such as those under the chin. The Swiss Medicines Agency, Swissmedic, has also cautioned that these solutions frequently contain unlisted ingredients and have been banned as unauthorized medical products, with German authorities contemplating similar actions.