Is Semaglutide included in medical insurance?

Semaglutide tablets (Semaglutide) is the first oral glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist product approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. As a class, GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely used and recommended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 receptor agonists with proven cardiovascular benefits are one of the two preferred add-on therapies for patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease after metformin and lifestyle intervention.

Semaglutide is also commonly recommended as add-on therapy to metformin in patients who do not meet individualized glycemic goals when there is an urgent need to minimize hypoglycemia or promote weight loss. Despite the clinical benefit ofGLP-1 receptor agonists, historically they have required self-administration via subcutaneous injection. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. By mimicking the action of the incretin glucagon-like peptide-1, it increases the secretion of insulin, a hormone that lowers blood sugar levels. It also appears to promote the growth of pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for the production and release of insulin.

Semaglutide tablets have not yet been launched in China. Its injection has been launched in China and is covered by medical insurance, but only eligible patients can be reimbursed.The price of each 3ml tube may be around RMB 1,000. The original drug Semaglutide tablets sold overseas, with a specification of 3 mg*100 tablets, may cost around 2,000 yuan per box (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates). There are currently no generic versions of semaglutide on the market.