The once-weekly weight loss injection approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and available in Australia is Wegovy (active ingredient semaglutide).
Wegovy® is a once-weekly injectable medicine that comes in 5 color-coded dose strengths (. 25 mg to 2.4 mg). It is taken the same day each week—any time, with or without food.
As the newest GLP-1 agonist, Mounjaro works in the same way as Ozempic/Wegovy and Saxenda but has an additional action that maximises insulin sensitivity, potential leading to added weight loss benefits.
In Australia, Ozempic costs vary significantly: around $31.60 (or $7.70 for concessions) with a PBS subsidy for type 2 diabetes, but full private prices range from approximately $130 to $200 per month for weight loss (off-label), depending on dose, pharmacy, and pen. The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) only subsidises it for diabetes, so weight loss users pay the higher private cost.
It is prescribed as a weight loss injection, but it is not listed on the PBS and is only available via private prescription.
There are many side effects of taking Ozempic as a weight loss medication, including: Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Constipation. Stomach pain.
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Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) is approved in Australia for obesity management. The SURMOUNT trials found tirzepatide results in weight loss of 15% (5mg dose) to 20.9% (15mg dose) at 72 weeks, and 25.3% (10-15mg dose) at 88 weeks. It reduces energy intake by reducing appetite.
For Ozempic, clinical guidelines generally recommend its use for individuals with a BMI of 27 or above who also have weight-related health issues such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes. People with a BMI of 30 or greater are typically eligible for treatment, primarily for weight management purposes.
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.
For GLP-1 agonists (weight loss injections), you may qualify for medical weight loss injections if your BMI is >30 kg/m² ( or >27kg/m² with obesity related health conditions such as osteoarthritis, sleep apnoea, PCOS etc).
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.
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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.
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.
Duromine is used in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. It is also used in adults with a BMI of 27 to 29 (overweight) if they have at least one weight-related health problem such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or obstructive sleep apnoea.
In Australia, key substitutes for Ozempic (semaglutide) for diabetes or weight loss include Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a newer, dual-acting drug, and Wegovy (also semaglutide, but approved for weight loss), while other options like Trulicity (dulaglutide) and Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) are also available; natural supplements like Berberine and lifestyle changes are other avenues, but prescription medications require a doctor's consultation.
Alli (pronounced AL-eye) is an over-the-counter drug meant for overweight adults struggling to shed excess pounds.
It is not known if Ozempic® will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people. Do not use Ozempic® if you or any of your family have ever had MTC, or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Still, the FDA has not yet granted full approval for tirzepatide as a weight-loss drug for non-diabetics. For now, its use in that context is considered “off-label,” meaning doctors can prescribe it based on their own clinical judgment.
A month's supply of Ozempic with a private prescription generally costs between $130—$200 in Australia.
But about half of people with obesity on this class of medications, called glucagon-like peptide agonists or GLP-1s, stop taking it within a year. Studies suggest that most people discontinue their use due to the high cost and adverse gastrointestinal side-effects.
The digestive effects of sugary drinks can be particularly uncomfortable: Increased nausea and vomiting - Sweet beverages can trigger or worsen the most common side effects of Ozempic. Exacerbated GI upset - Sugary drinks often intensify digestive discomfort already present from the medication.
Rapid weight loss is a significant factor in the development of 'Ozempic Face. ' To minimize its impact, aim for a steady and gradual weight loss. This approach allows your skin more time to adjust and tighten naturally, reducing the risk of a gaunt appearance.