What you need to know

Health Canada approved the first generic versions of Ozempic, the brand-name semaglutide medication. Canada is the first G7 country to authorize a generic version of this medication, with more options expected later this year.

Generic medications meet the same safety, quality and effectiveness standards as brand-name drugs.

What is semaglutide used for?

Semaglutide is approved in Canada for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes to help manage blood sugar levels. While it’s also widely known for weight loss, its approved use remains diabetes management.

Why this matters

The approval of generic options will mean reduced drug costs, improving access for people who rely on this medication. Under national pricing rules, the availability of multiple generics can significantly lower the list price compared to the brand-name version.

Saskatchewan Blue Cross coverage

Coverage rules for semaglutide, including Ozempic and its generic versions, are not changing. If this medication isn’t covered under your plan today, that won’t change now that the generic is available.

If semaglutide is covered under your plan, you must still meet Special Authorization requirements and receive approval.

If you are approved, a generic version may cost less than the brand‑name drug. This could lower your out‑of‑pocket costs, such as:

• Co-insurance amounts
• Annual dollar limits

What to expect

The biggest impact will be for plans with generic substitution or mandatory generic substitution. In these plans, claims are reimbursed up to the cost of the generic drug.

New generic medications may take time to become widely available. You may not see changes at the pharmacy right away.

If you have any additional questions, please contact us at 1.800.667.6853 or email service@sk.bluecross.ca.