Dr Nick Fuller
Leading Obesity Expert at the University of Sydney and founder of Interval Weight Loss.
If you’ve been following global weight loss trends, you’ve probably heard about semaglutide, the active ingredient in popular injections like Ozempic and Wegovy. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, semaglutide has gained fame for its powerful effect on weight loss.
But what’s the situation here in Australia? Can you actually get Semaglutide for weight loss, or is it still out of reach?
Yes, but with a catch. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved Wegovy, the brand of semaglutide specifically indicated for chronic weight management in adults. Ozempic, another brand of semaglutide, is approved in Australia for type 2 diabetes management, not weight loss. Still, some healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for weight management, especially when other options have failed.
Clinical trials like the STEP 1 study found that participants taking semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly lost an average of 15% of their body weight, compared to 2.4% in the placebo group. This makes semaglutide one of the most effective medical weight loss options to date.
At the moment, semaglutide supply remains limited across Australia, with shortages expected to continue into 2025. The TGA and Novo Nordisk (the manufacturer) have both confirmed that demand has far exceeded production, largely due to global popularity.
If you’re looking for weight loss treatment with semaglutide in Australia, your options may include:
Prescription via your GP if suitable and available
Specialist clinics that manage access to Semaglutide under strict guidelines
Compounded versions, though these are not TGA-approved and may vary in quality or safety
It’s always best to check the latest TGA updates and consult your doctor before pursuing any compounded or overseas alternatives.
While waiting for semaglutide’s full rollout, there are several safe and effective alternatives Australians can explore.
Options like Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and Saxenda (Liraglutide), another GLP-1 medications, are TGA-approved for weight management. Other prescriptions include Contrave (Naltrexone/Bupropion) and Duromine (Phentermine), though these work differently and may suit different individuals.
Beyond medication, many Australians find success through evidence-based programs and lifestyle interventions. Options include medically supervised weight management clinics, which combine nutrition, behavioural support, and prescription guidance, as well as structured programs like Interval Weight Loss, which is proven to support sustainable weight loss.
To see how Interval Weight Loss compares with other plans, read How IWL Beats Other Weight Loss Programs. You can also explore recent findings on why it’s considered one of the most effective approaches in Why Interval Weight Loss Is Australia’s No. 1 Diet: Insights from New Research.
Semaglutide isn’t a quick fix; it’s a long-term, medically supervised therapy. Before starting, it’s crucial to weigh up several factors.
Your GP will review your BMI, weight-related conditions, and overall health to determine if Semaglutide is suitable. It’s typically prescribed for adults with a BMI ≥30, or ≥27 with weight-related conditions such as hypertension or high cholesterol.
Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and bloating are common, especially during the first few weeks. Most side effects are mild and manageable, but persistent symptoms should be discussed with your doctor.
Semaglutide is not a short-term solution. Research shows weight regain may occur after stopping the medication. Long-term commitment to lifestyle change and medical follow-up is essential.
Semaglutide isn’t currently listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for weight loss, meaning out-of-pocket costs can be high, depending on supply and dosage.
Medication works best when paired with dietary adjustments and regular exercise. Studies show people who combine semaglutide with lifestyle interventions achieve greater and more sustainable results.
Ongoing monitoring is crucial for adjusting dosage, managing side effects, and tracking progress. Your doctor may also check blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and overall metabolic health.
If you’re considering starting semaglutide, it helps to know how it actually works. Read How Does Semaglutide Work for Weight Loss in Non-Diabetics? to understand the science behind its appetite and metabolism effects.
So, can you get semaglutide for weight loss in Australia? Technically yes, but availability is limited.
If you’re considering semaglutide, speak with your GP about eligibility, access, and long-term management. Weight loss is a journey, and with the right support, whether it’s medication, nutrition, or lifestyle changes, sustainable success is possible.
Not sure if semaglutide is right for you? Read Are Weight Loss Injections Safe for Women Over 40? to learn about safety, side effects, and who benefits most from these treatments.
Dr Nick Fuller is the founder of Interval Weight Loss and is a leading obesity expert at the University of Sydney with a Ph.D. in Obesity Treatment. Dr Fuller is also the author of three best-selling books and his work been published in top ranked journals in the medical field, including JAMA, Lancet and American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.