Rule change could save millions on Ozempic subsidies

A potential regulatory adjustment could save Danish regions up to 140 million kroner in 2023 on subsidies for the diabetes medication Ozempic. Currently, regions pay over 2000 kroner more for triple packs of Ozempic pens compared to single pen packages due to differing substitution groups that affect pricing and subsidies. Packages with three pens, usually imported by parallel importers, are not in the same substitution group as those with a single pen, leading to extra costs for regions. The Danish Competition and Consumer Authority suggests adopting generic prescribing and thereby encouraging patients to opt for the cheapest option available. If implemented, patients wouldn’t receive full subsidy for the costlier three-pen packages if a cheaper single-pen variant is available. In 2023, Ozempic subsidies totaled 1.3 billion kroner, accounting for 16% of the regions’ total subsidy expenses, marking a 30% increase from 2022.