Semaglutide, developed by Novo Nordisk (NOVOb.CO) over decades, is the active ingredient in type 2 diabetes treatments Ozempic and Rybelsus, as well as Wegovy, which is used for weight loss only. Semaglutide in injected form was first approved for use in the U.S. as a treatment for type 2 diabetes in 2017. Booming demand for both drugs has propelled Novo Nordisk to its highest-ever profits. People taking part in clinical trials for drugs based on semaglutide may also continue to take it. The curbs will be in force until August 2024, but may end sooner if supplies improve, a spokesperson for the health ministry said.

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Persons: Maggie Fick, Marine Strauss, Charlotte Van Campenhout, Josephine Mason, Sara Ledwith Organizations: Novo Nordisk, World Health Organization, International Diabetes Foundation, Supply, BMI, Thomson Locations: Britain, Germany, Belgium, United States, U.S, Denmark, Brussels