Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2025

An Acupoint Catgut-embedding Therapy for Treating Obesity
Published on: April 4, 2025
[Prescribing semaglutide for overweight: is it allowed?]
Paul C Rijk1,2
1Medisch Centrum Leeuwarden, afd. Orthopedie, Leeuwarden.
Abstract:
Semaglutide is registered in the Netherlands as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. If semaglutide is prescribed off-label as slimming agent, in principle, patient's costs are not reimbursed by health insurers. With the entry of the Geneesmiddelenwet (Gnw), regulations were provided for off-label prescription of medication. Based on article 68, paragraph 1 Gnw, off-label prescribing is allowed when protocols or standards have been developed. So far, this has not been the case in the Netherlands regarding semaglutide. When protocols and standards are under development, consultation must take place between doctor and pharmacist. The term "protocols or standards under development" is open to multiple interpretations, as shown by case law. Regardless of the chosen interpretation, the scientific evidence for semaglutide as slimming agent seems insufficient. In conclusion does off-label prescribing of semaglutide as slimming agent not meet the requirements of article 68, paragraph 1 Gnw and is therefore not permitted.
Related Concept Videos
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by...
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones
Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects
The basal dose constitutes about 40%-50% of the total daily dose, with the rest as premeal insulin. The mealtime insulin dose should mirror...
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Glinides
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors
Hypoglycemia and Glucagon

