In Australia we have a handful of weight loss medications available to treat overweight and obesity approved by the TGA. There are 3 weight loss injections approved for use within certain limitations.
All of the medications indicated for weight management are available on private script only – there are no medications available for weight loss on the PBS at this stage.
Recommended Retail Price for weight loss injections range from around $260 per month to $695 per month, however, it is important to note that not all patients will require the maximum strength of these medications which will therefore make the monthly cost cheaper. In fact, for the dual therapy weekly injection (GLP1/GIP combination), 80% of our patients require 5mg or less per week to achieve meaningful results.
Cost of these medications remains a significant barrier to care for many people. It is hopeful that as time progresses, and as more medications become available to market, that the cost of weight loss medications will become cheaper and more accessible. In the mean time, having a doctor guide you with the use of your medication may mean you can have lower doses to achieve your goals. There are other methods of cost reduction that your doctor may discuss with you during your consultation.
For now, it is worth discussing with your Doctor about your individual circumstances so that together you can weigh up the costs vs benefits of accessing pharmacotherapy for your weight management and metabolic health.
