'I couldn't find it anywhere': Ozempic shortage in South Africa taking a toll on diabetics

Ozempic and similar medications are meant to help people with diabetes and could save lives, but now it's being prescribed for weight loss. Here's how two people are dealing with it.

There is currently a global shortage of a popular and effective medication used for type 2 diabetes called Semaglutide, which is sold under various brand names, including Ozempic, due to its high demand, as many doctors are also prescribing it as a weight loss aid.

"Considering its use for weight loss in addition to improving sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, the prescriptions have far outnumbered current supplies," says Charlotte Meschede, a dietitian, clinical nutritionist and Diabetes educator.