Drug shortages have become a significant issue, affecting many medications, including those for diabetes. In the first three months of 2024, there were record levels of drug shortages in the U.S., with 323 medicines in short supply. This includes not only weight loss drugs but also essential medications like antibiotics and heart medicines. One of the most concerning shortages involves generic sterile injectable medications, such as cancer chemotherapy drugs and emergency medications used in hospitals. For diabetes patients, drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy have been hard to find. Ozempic is used to manage blood sugar levels, while Wegovy is used for weight loss. Both drugs contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide. Although Ozempic is no longer in short supply, Wegovy remains difficult to obtain. The FDA has warned against using compounded versions of these drugs, as they may not be safe or effective. Another new weight loss drug, Zepbound (tirzepatide), also faces shortages. Its diabetes counterpart, Mounjaro, is similarly affected. These shortages can lead to patients seeking alternative treatments, which may not always be safe. It's important for patients to consult their healthcare providers for guidance during these shortages.