Types of Prescription Weight Loss Medication in Australia
All weight loss medications available in Australia through registered pharmacies are prescription-only (Schedule 4 or Schedule 8). They require a clinical assessment and a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (most common)
GLP-1 receptor agonists are currently the most extensively studied class of prescription weight management medications. They work by activating GLP-1 receptors involved in appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. Options available in Australia include:
- Ozempic (semaglutide): registered on the ARTG for type 2 diabetes; weekly injection. Widely used in clinical weight management practice.
- Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg): registered on the ARTG specifically for weight management in adults; weekly injection. Higher dose than Ozempic.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide): Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist; registered on the ARTG in Australia; weekly injection. Newer class with distinct dual mechanism.
- Saxenda (liraglutide 3mg): registered on the ARTG for weight management; daily injection. An older GLP-1 agonist with a longer clinical history.
Appetite Suppressants
Oral appetite suppressants work on the central nervous system to reduce the sensation of hunger. They are typically prescribed for short-term use as part of a broader supervised weight management plan.
- Phentermine (Duromine): An S8 (Schedule 8) controlled medication. For informational reference only — Duromine is subject to strict prescribing controls and cannot be promoted or linked to any supply platform. Your prescriber can discuss whether it is relevant to your circumstances.
What’s Right for Me?
The choice between medication classes and specific medications is a clinical decision made by your doctor. Key factors your prescriber will consider include:
- Your BMI and any weight-related comorbidities (e.g. type 2 diabetes, hypertension)
- Your current medications and any contraindications
- Your medical history, including any previous treatments
- Your preference for injection vs oral administration
- Cost considerations and PBS eligibility
No single medication is universally "best." Your prescriber is best placed to recommend what is appropriate for your circumstances.
How to Access in Australia
- Complete a confidential online health assessment
- An authorised prescriber reviews your assessment and determines clinical suitability
- A prescription is issued if clinically appropriate
- An AHPRA-registered pharmacist dispenses your medication
- Home delivery to your door — same-day available in metro areas
Cost Overview
Costs for weight loss medications in Australia vary significantly by medication, dose, and whether PBS-eligibility applies:
- PBS-listed medications: Ozempic is PBS-listed for type 2 diabetes, significantly reducing cost for eligible patients. PBS co-payment rates apply.
- Private (non-PBS) medications: Wegovy and Mounjaro for weight management are currently not PBS-listed for this indication and are accessed privately. Costs vary by dose and supplier — your prescriber or pharmacist can provide current pricing.
Safety Overview
All prescription weight loss medications available through Chemist2U are registered on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Key safety considerations:
- All have been through rigorous clinical trial programmes before TGA approval
- Side effect profiles vary by medication class — your pharmacist will discuss relevant considerations
- Drug interactions must be assessed — your pharmacist conducts this check at dispensing
- Ongoing clinical monitoring is part of the Chemist2U care model