Here's what we'll cover

Home / Weight Loss

How to Get an Ozempic Prescription in the Philippines?

Published 04/10/2025

Updated 04/22/2025

Ozempic has quickly become one of the most talked-about medications in the world—not just for managing type 2 diabetes, but also for its significant role in weight loss. But if you’re living in the Philippines and thinking about using Ozempic, there’s a big question on your mind: How do you actually get a prescription for it here?

The short answer: You’ll need to go through a licensed doctor, preferably one familiar with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic. But the process isn’t as intimidating—or as inaccessible—as it might seem.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to legally, safely, and effectively get an Ozempic prescription in the Philippines.

What Is Ozempic and Why Is It in Demand?

Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed to help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications mimic a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate appetite, blood sugar, and digestion.

Clinical studies have shown that semaglutide also supports significant and sustained weight loss—sometimes more than 10–15% of body weight over time (NEJM). This has led to a surge in demand among both diabetic and non-diabetic populations worldwide.

The popularity of Ozempic exploded thanks to endorsements from celebrities, viral TikToks, and increasing awareness of GLP-1 medications in mainstream media. But it’s not a miracle pill—it’s a prescription-only injectable that requires consistent use and medical supervision.

Is Ozempic Available in the Philippines?

Yes, Ozempic is available in the Philippines, but it is still classified as a prescription-only medication by the Philippine FDA. This means it’s not legally available over the counter, and pharmacies will not sell it to you without a valid prescription.

You can typically find Ozempic at:

Select hospital pharmacies in Metro Manila
Some specialty diabetes or endocrinology clinics
Licensed online pharmacies that require a prescription

However, due to global demand, supply is often limited, and prices may vary significantly depending on availability and the location of purchase.

Who Can Get a Prescription for Ozempic?

In the Philippines, a doctor may prescribe Ozempic for the following conditions:

Type 2 diabetes that is not well controlled with oral medications alone
Obesity or being overweight with a BMI of 27 or higher
Individuals with obesity-related comorbidities such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, fatty liver disease, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Ozempic is not officially approved by the Philippine FDA for weight loss as a primary indication, but doctors can prescribe it off-label if they determine that the benefits outweigh the risks for a specific patient.

Doctors will usually assess:

Your BMI and waist circumference
Blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels
Family history of chronic diseases
Any current medications that might interact with semaglutide
History of gastrointestinal disorders or thyroid issues

Steps to Get an Ozempic Prescription in the Philippines

1. Schedule a Medical Consultation

You can do this in two ways:

In-person, through a primary care physician, endocrinologist, or internal medicine doctor
Online, through telehealth platforms like Andyou, which offer consultations focused on GLP-1 medications and men’s metabolic health

A consultation is essential because Ozempic is not suitable for everyone. Your doctor will consider:

Whether you’ve tried diet and exercise
If you have a medical condition that would benefit from weight loss
Potential contraindications such as pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer history, or severe gastrointestinal disorders

2. Get a Prescription

If the doctor believes Ozempic is a good fit for your case, you’ll be issued a prescription. This can be:

A digital prescription via email or platform portal
A paper prescription if seen in person

3. Fill the Prescription and Begin Treatment

Once you have your prescription, you can either:

Bring it to a local pharmacy with available stock
Order through an integrated telemedicine provider who offers delivery and ongoing support

Andyou, for example, ships medication discreetly nationwide and provides guidance on how to administer your injections at home.

How Ozempic Is Typically Dosed

Ozempic is administered once weekly via a prefilled injection pen. Most people start with:

0.25 mg once weekly for the first four weeks
Then increased to 0.5 mg once weekly
Further increased to 1 mg or 2 mg if needed and well-tolerated

The gradual titration helps reduce side effects, which may include:

Nausea
Diarrhea or constipation
Bloating
Fatigue or headache

It’s important to stick to your schedule, inject on the same day each week, and rotate injection sites (thigh, abdomen, or upper arm).

Can You Buy Ozempic Online in the Philippines Without a Prescription?

No—and doing so puts your health at risk.

While some online marketplaces may advertise Ozempic or semaglutide “without prescription,” these are likely unregulated or counterfeit products. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the risks of using substandard medications are high—especially with injectables that may contain harmful additives.

Stick to FDA-accredited providers and ensure that you have ongoing medical support while on the medication.

What About Compounded Semaglutide?

In the U.S. and other markets, pharmacies have started compounding semaglutide due to the high demand and supply issues with Ozempic and Wegovy. In the Philippines, compounded semaglutide is beginning to emerge through local clinics and digital health providers.

Compounded medications are custom-made by licensed pharmacies, but they still require:

A valid prescription
Strict oversight by a licensed physician
Quality assurance that matches national pharmaceutical standards

If you're considering compounded semaglutide, choose providers that are transparent about sourcing, ingredients, and safety protocols.

How Much Does Ozempic Cost in the Philippines?

Ozempic isn’t cheap. Pricing depends on supply chain logistics, brand availability, and location. On average:

One prefilled Ozempic pen (lasting 4 weeks) costs ₱10,000 to ₱15,000
Compounded semaglutide may be slightly more affordable, depending on the provider

Some platforms offer payment plans or bundled programs, especially if you’re committing to a longer course of treatment (typically 3–6 months minimum).

Is Ozempic Covered by PhilHealth or Insurance?

As of now, Ozempic is not covered by PhilHealth, and few private insurance companies reimburse it, especially when prescribed for weight loss. Some plans may cover it under a diabetes management benefit.

You can check with your HMO or private insurer if: