A drug that mimics the popular weight loss drug Ozempic will soon be available in Australian pharmacies.
Both Ozempic and Wegovy are produced by pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk and use the same active ingredient Semaglutide, which mimics the hormone released by the gut after eating, helping to reduce cravings and control hunger.
Like Ozempic, the drug is administered once a week through a pen. However, it contains a higher amount of the active ingredient and is used to treat chronic obesity, while Ozempic is only approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Since 2022, the drug has been approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, allowing it to be used for weight loss and weight management in people classified as obese or overweight, in combination with increased exercise and a reduced-calorie diet. However, it has never been sold in Australia.
However, Wegovy is not included in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and details of its cost have yet to be released.
In America, the drug costs US$1,349.02 (AU$2,064.23) for a 28-day pack.
The drug’s launch comes after a shortage of Ozempic, which Novo Nordisk has told the TGA will continue until 2024.
In May, the Australian government also banned chemically modified versions of Ozempic, over concerns about serious side effects including nerve damage, bleeding gums, severe diarrhea, vomiting blood and skin rashes.
A drug similar to Ozempic, Wegovy (pictured), which is used to manage obesity, could soon be sold in Australia, but it is uncertain how much it will cost Australians.
John Dixon, vice-chair of the National Association of Clinical Obesity Services (NACOS), said obesity was a “deeply misunderstood” and complex disease, with Australia having one of the highest rates of the disease in the world.
“There is a significant unmet need to address this chronic and complex disease, and early intervention can help reduce the risk of many other serious conditions,” said Prof Dixon.
“I encourage people living with obesity to talk to their doctors. We need to continue to have conversations about this chronic condition and eliminate the stigma.”
While Ozempic (pictured) is only approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, Wegovy contains a higher amount of the active ingredient and is used for the treatment of chronic weight disorders
Ana Svensson, Novo Nordisk’s Chief Medical Officer in Oceania, said the introduction of Wegovy in pharmacies provides a new treatment option for people struggling with obesity.
“We encourage health care professionals and their patients to talk openly about obesity and weight issues and have meaningful conversations about long-term strategies,” she said.
