In Australia, diabetes drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are used for weight loss, with Wegovy and Mounjaro specifically approved for weight management alongside diet/exercise, though Ozempic (same ingredient as Wegovy) is primarily for diabetes but used off-label for weight loss, and Mounjaro is now also approved for weight management and even sleep apnea in some cases, but often comes at a high cost as it's generally not PBS-subsidised for weight loss yet.
Saxenda (liraglutide) and Wegovy (semaglutide), which are approved for chronic weight management in patients who are obese or overweight. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) which is approved for both diabetes and chronic weight management.
No, Wegovy (semaglutide) is not yet fully listed on Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for general weight loss, but significant progress has been made, with the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) recommending it for PBS listing for specific high-risk groups with obesity and cardiovascular disease, a step that awaits final government approval. Until then, it remains a high out-of-pocket cost medication, though its approval for heart-related conditions could make it accessible for many more Australians.
There are many side effects of taking Ozempic as a weight loss medication, including: Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Constipation. Stomach pain.
$249.99. Find your local Chemist Warehouse storeto talk to our pharmacists for further assistance.
The cost of a 30-day supply of Ozempic is $997.58 without insurance. However, the amount you pay will depend on your insurance coverage, the pharmacy you use, and any Ozempic coupons you may be eligible for.
Do not use Ozempic® if: you or any of your family have ever had MTC or if you have MEN 2. you are allergic to semaglutide or any of the ingredients in Ozempic®. See symptoms of serious allergic reaction in “What are the possible side effects of Ozempic®?”.
Most people taking Ozempic see big changes within the first 2 to 6 months depending on the dosage adjustments. Patients can expect 2 to 6 lb per month weight loss and a total of 10 to 15% or body weight loss for the period of 6 to 12 months.
The rapid weight loss achieved with Ozempic can decrease facial volume, resulting in loose skin, lines and wrinkles, or a hollowed appearance becoming more prominent. There are a few factors to consider on your weight loss journey to help prevent Ozempic face. Dehydration can intensify the negative effects.
Wegovy recommended for PBS listing
Buy Ozempic 1.34mg/mL 3mL Pre Filled Pen 1 - Semaglutide online at Chemist Warehouse.
Wegovy can be expensive without any insurance coverage or discounts, but there are various ways to save. As of 2025, the $25 savings offer is no longer available—however, the good news is that there are still affordable ways to get Wegovy, and some people (with insurance) will pay as little as $0.
The choice between Duromine and Ozempic depends on various factors: Health Conditions: If you have type 2 diabetes, Ozempic might be beneficial. However, its use for weight loss is off-label in Australia. Lifestyle: Duromine requires daily commitment, while Ozempic's weekly injection might be more convenient for some.
Which weight loss medication gives the best results?
The main symptoms associated with Ozempic Face are:
Yes, most people regain a significant amount of weight after stopping Ozempic (semaglutide) because appetite and cravings return, often regaining two-thirds of lost weight within a year, but this can be mitigated by gradual tapering, sustained exercise, and a healthy diet to manage the underlying chronic nature of obesity, says this source, this source, this source, and this source.
Key Milestones for Weight Loss with Ozempic
"Ozempic hands" is a slang term for the visible changes in hands due to rapid fat loss from GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, making them look thinner, bonier, and more aged with prominent veins, tendons, and thinner skin, as subcutaneous fat diminishes and skin doesn't fully contract quickly. It's not a formal diagnosis but a common cosmetic effect of significant weight loss, similar to "Ozempic face".
Those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2), pancreatitis, or gallbladder disease are not suitable candidates for Ozempic. In addition, this treatment is not intended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Nausea is the most common Ozempic side effect. Still, not everyone has it. About 1 in 5 people in the clinical trial had it. Nausea is usually mild to moderate and at its worst when you first start the drug or when you increase your dose.
Both alcohol and Ozempic have a risk of pancreatitis and kidney damage. A drink or two every now and then may not be a big deal with Ozempic. But if you combine Ozempic with long-term or heavy alcohol use, you may be at higher risk for two serious complications: pancreatitis and kidney damage.
A pill form of Ozempic, called Rybelsus, is also available. But this has to be taken daily on an empty stomach. Malkani said the GLP-1 drugs have another potentially therapeutic effect: In some individuals they seem to cut down craving for alcohol and tobacco.
Each new Ozempic pen after that should contain four doses. Specifically, this includes the 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg maintenance doses. Each pen should last 4 weeks (about 1 month).