The Canadian Prescription Pathway
To legally acquire Wegovy in Canada, a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is mandatory. Wegovy is not available over-the-counter and is intended for patients who meet specific clinical criteria for chronic weight management. This often includes adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater, or a BMI of 27 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as hypertension or Type 2 diabetes.
The prescription process can be initiated through two main channels:
- In-Person Medical Consultation: Patients can visit their primary care physician or a specialist, like an endocrinologist or bariatric specialist, for a medical evaluation. The doctor will assess the patient's medical history, current health status, and other factors to determine if Wegovy is an appropriate treatment.
- Online Healthcare Platforms: Virtual clinics and telehealth services like Felix, Maple, and Livewell offer an accessible and convenient way to receive a Wegovy prescription. The process typically involves an online assessment and a virtual consultation with a Canadian-licensed practitioner. If deemed eligible, the prescription can be sent to a local pharmacy for pickup or delivered directly to the patient's home.
The Specifics of the Wegovy Pen
Unlike the single-dose pens often seen in the United States, Wegovy in Canada is typically supplied in multi-dose FlexTouch pens. Each pen contains four weekly doses, corresponding to one month's supply. This allows for a smooth continuation of treatment during the initial phase.
The Wegovy treatment starts at a low dose and is gradually increased over several weeks to help the body adjust and minimize side effects. Each pen is pre-filled and colour-coded to correspond with the specific dosage strength, making it easier for patients to follow their treatment plan. A single multi-dose pen is designed to last for four injections, with the user dialling the correct weekly dose.
Supply and Availability in Canadian Pharmacies
After receiving a valid prescription, Canadian patients can obtain Wegovy from most authorized pharmacies. Major national chains, including Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, Jean Coutu, and Lawton Drugs, dispense the medication. Online pharmacy services affiliated with telehealth platforms can also fulfill the prescription and ship it directly to the patient's address in discreet, temperature-controlled packaging.
It is important to note that while the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced the resolution of major supply shortages in early 2025, high demand means some localized supply fluctuations may still occur. Patients should maintain close communication with their pharmacy and healthcare provider to manage their treatment schedule effectively.
Comparing Wegovy Supply in Canada vs. USA
| Feature | Wegovy Supply in Canada | Wegovy Supply in the USA |
|---|---|---|
| Pen Type | Multi-dose FlexTouch pens (4 doses per pen) | Typically single-dose pens (4 pens per box for 1 month supply) |
| Dosing | A single pen contains four weeks of the prescribed dose | A new single-use pen is used for each weekly injection |
| Online Purchase | Available through licensed Canadian telehealth platforms and their partner pharmacies | Available through some telehealth platforms and online pharmacies, but requires vigilance to ensure legitimacy |
| Pharmacy Access | Dispensed by major national pharmacy chains | Dispensed by major national pharmacy chains |
| Supply Shortages | Resolved in early 2025 following previous shortages | Resolved in early 2025 after widespread shortages |
Conclusion
For Canadian patients, Wegovy is supplied as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection via a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. The medication is dispensed in multi-dose FlexTouch pens, designed to provide a four-week supply at each dosage level. Availability is managed through both traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies and convenient online telehealth services that offer direct-to-home delivery. While supply issues have historically impacted availability, they have since been resolved, though patients should stay informed about potential localized delays. Obtaining Wegovy requires a thorough medical assessment, confirming its role as a targeted treatment for chronic weight management. For official drug information and manufacturer updates, consult resources like Novo Nordisk Canada.
Obtaining Your Supply
- Get a Prescription: Book a consultation with a Canadian healthcare provider, either in-person or via a virtual clinic like Felix or Maple.
- Confirm Eligibility: The provider will assess your medical history and BMI to determine if you meet Health Canada's criteria for Wegovy.
- Fill the Prescription: Take your prescription to a participating pharmacy, such as Shoppers Drug Mart or Rexall, or opt for free discreet delivery through online services.
- Receive Your Pens: You will receive a box containing one multi-dose FlexTouch pen with four weekly doses.
- Administer Weekly: Follow the prescribed dosage schedule for your weekly subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
- Manage Refills: Maintain follow-up appointments with your provider to monitor progress, address side effects, and receive refills as needed.
