Buying GLP-1 medicines in the Netherlands: checks and insurance

Use the Medicines Information Bank

The Medicines Information Bank is an official source of Dutch medicine information. Search the generic name and check the dosage form, strength and approved information. Ask the pharmacist to match the record to the actual pack. For a newer tablet, an overseas release date does not replace the relevant Dutch or European authorisation. You also need evidence the product reaches you through proper local supply.

Ask your prescriber and insurer clear questions

Ask the clinician which diagnosis and treatment goal the prescription addresses. Then ask your insurer whether the policy covers that product for that indication and on what conditions. A yes for one semaglutide product does not extend to all GLP-1 medicines. If you pay privately, get the total ongoing cost and find out what follow-up and side-effect support are included.

Know who is responsible in a remote service

If an online clinic arranges the prescription, identify the clinician, the dispensing pharmacy and what each is responsible for. Ask where the consultation and dispensing take place and whether the service can legally treat you at your current location. A pharmacy operating in the Netherlands is not automatically allowed to post every prescription medicine to every destination. Check the destination's rules before you rely on international delivery.

Transfer your treatment properly

A good transfer record lists the ingredient, brand, current strength, last dose and any breaks in treatment. The record also says why treatment started and whether you had tolerability problems. Give the record to the new clinician and do not order a familiar box on your own. Ask for instructions for the new presentation and check any storage and device differences. Keep a contact for questions after the first prescription is dispensed.

Before you buy in the Netherlands

Check the current entry in the Medicines Information Bank before you buy. Confirm the exact product and indication for Mounjaro, Wegovy injection, Wegovy tablets or Foundayo. Authorisation, prescription, insurance cover, pharmacy stock and personal import permission each get their own decision in the Netherlands.

• Ask a Dutch clinician which product is right for you and whether your treatment history is enough for an assessment.
• Ask for the complete cost, covering consultations, dispensing and delivery, before agreeing to ongoing treatment.
• Keep identifiable packaging, the prescription and the dispensing record. Speak to the pharmacist about a damaged parcel or uncertain storage before you use the medicine.