In a surprise move that’s grabbing attention across the health and wellness industry, pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk has officially ended its partnership with the popular telehealth brand Hims & Hers. The decision has come as a shock to many, especially those who relied on the partnership for access to certain weight-loss medications and health solutions.
This development could change how some patients get their treatments online—and it raises bigger questions about the future of weight-loss drugs, online pharmacies, and access to care.
What Was the Deal Between Novo Nordisk and Hims & Hers?
Novo Nordisk, the company behind blockbuster weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, had a deal with Hims & Hers that allowed the telehealth platform to offer these medications to customers through virtual consultations. It was part of a growing trend where people could get prescriptions for powerful drugs without ever visiting a doctor’s office in person.
But that arrangement has now ended—and both companies are going their separate ways.
Why Did Novo Nordisk Pull Out?
So far, Novo Nordisk hasn’t given a detailed reason for ending the partnership. However, reports suggest it could be related to how their weight-loss drugs were being prescribed or managed online.
The company might be looking to take tighter control of how its medications are distributed, especially given the high demand and limited supply of its weight-loss drugs. Novo Nordisk may also want to avoid risks tied to how these powerful drugs are used outside of a traditional medical setting.
Some experts say this move could also be about brand protection, as Novo Nordisk is very cautious about how its products are used and promoted—especially those that are under huge media and public attention.
How Is Hims & Hers Responding?
Hims & Hers, which has become a popular telehealth company among millennials and Gen Z for its easy access to medications like hair loss treatments, mental health support, and sexual wellness solutions, says they still have other options available.
Even without Novo Nordisk’s products, the company has announced that it will continue offering weight-loss solutions using alternative GLP-1 medications or compounded versions. Compounded medications are made by pharmacies to closely match the original formulas, but they aren’t always approved by the FDA in the same way.
The company has also assured customers that they’re working to make sure there’s no gap in care for existing patients.
What Does This Mean for Customers?
If you’ve been getting your Ozempic or Wegovy prescriptions through Hims & Hers, this change could impact you. Some customers might experience delays or have to switch to different medications. Others may need to find a new provider or go through extra steps to continue their treatment.
This also shows how fragile the world of digital healthcare can be—especially when it comes to high-demand, high-risk medications.
Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
This breakup comes at a time when weight-loss drugs are booming in popularity, and more people are turning to telehealth for quick, discreet medical care. The sudden end of this deal could push regulators to take a closer look at how powerful drugs are being prescribed online—and whether the model really works for everyone.
