Weight-Loss Drugs Wegovy and Mounjaro Under Review for Dutch Health Insurance Coverage
The Netherlands’ Healthcare institute (Zorginstituut Nederland) will begin assessing this year whether to include the weight-loss medications Wegovy and Mounjaro in the country’s basic health insurance package. The move potentially opens access to these drugs for roughly one million people,but will require a lifelong commitment to medication combined with intensive lifestyle interventions.
Currently, the institute is prioritizing evaluation for two groups: individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher who also suffer from obesity-related illnesses like heart failure, chronic kidney damage, and sleep apnea, and those with a BMI of 35 or higher. This phased approach is supported by healthcare professionals,patients,and health insurers.
The assessment follows previous hesitation regarding Wegovy, for which the institute issued a negative reimbursement recommendation in 2024 due to uncertainties surrounding side effects, long-term efficacy, and responsible implementation. Concerns also existed about whether the health benefits justified the treatment costs. The European Medicines Agency currently deems individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher and a weight-related health condition eligible for treatment with Wegovy or Mounjaro.
A key consideration is the necessity of continued medication. Studies indicate patients regain weight upon stopping these drugs, suggesting lifelong use will likely be required. The estimated monthly cost per patient ranges from 250 to 450 euros.
The Healthcare Institute anticipates a multi-month assessment process, after which a recommendation will be presented to the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport for a final decision on inclusion in the basic insurance package.
