New Weight Loss Drug - Delivery Benefits - Australia - Chemist2U

In the treatment of obesity and overweight, doctors may prescribe a new weight loss drug, a type of GLP-1 receptor agonist, to eligible individuals. However, there are also other types of weight loss medication, and it’s important to consult your doctor to know which are suitable for your unique situation.

As you discuss your weight loss journey with your doctor, Chemist2U is here to support you with some information about new obesity treatment options.

This page provides general information about weight management medications to support informed discussions with your doctor. It is not intended as an advertisement. Only a licensed doctor can determine whether or not you are eligible for prescription medications.

How do weight loss drugs work?

Weight management drugs approved in Australia, including some weight loss tablets, work in different ways depending on their type.

Appetite suppressants, for example, stimulate the central nervous system to help reduce hunger sensations. Meanwhile, lipase inhibitors slow down the absorption of dietary fats in the intestines, a mechanism that can help reduce the total calorie intake your body processes.¹

Meanwhile, GLP-1 receptor agonists operate by regulating glucose levels and appetite, which relates closely to the hormonal signals responsible for hunger.^2,3

How do you take weight loss drugs?

The administration of prescription weight loss drugs varies depending on the specific drug and its formulation.

Appetite suppressants are a medication typically taken orally once daily in the morning.⁴ It’s available in a range of doses. On the other hand, lipase inhibitors are an oral medication typically taken at 120 mg three times daily, ideally with a meal that contains fat to prevent fat absorption.⁵

Meanwhile, some GLP-1 receptor agonists are designed to be administered as a subcutaneous weight loss injection.⁶

Ultimately, the correct use of an obesity drug Australia has available will lie in following the instructions laid out by your doctor. For detailed information on how to take any medicine, refer to the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) provided with your prescription.

Who can take weight loss drugs?

A weight loss prescription medication is typically prescribed for specific groups based on body mass index (BMI) and existing health conditions.

These medications are generally recommended for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher. They are also considered for those with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher if they have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension or dyslipidemia.⁷

Before starting any medication, including types of GLP-1 receptor agonists, individuals must undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation by a doctor to assess personal health status, investigate potential contraindications and determine a suitable treatment tailored to their health needs and goals.

There are also important considerations regarding who isn’t eligible to take weight loss medication. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, for example, are generally not ideal candidates for taking weight loss drugs. Additionally, people with specific health conditions may find these medications unsuitable due to potential risks or complications.

Your doctor will assess these factors and provide the necessary guidance and weight loss coaching as needed.

Weight loss drugs and other medications

If your search for weight loss programs and treatments has led you to discover newer classes of weight management medications, be aware of the potential interactions of certain weight loss medications with other drugs.

For example, GLP-1 receptor agonists can affect how quickly your stomach empties, potentially impacting the absorption of oral medications. This could alter the efficacy of drugs that need consistent absorption, such as antibiotics and birth control pills. Additionally, using GLP-1 receptor agonists with diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas can increase the risk of hypoglycemia.⁸

It’s vital to consult your doctor when considering weight loss medications.

Medicines you should not use with weight loss drugs

Some drug combinations are not recommended due to potential health risks. It’s important to consult your doctor if you want to learn more about any medical weight loss prescription medications and whether they are suitable for you.

For instance, pairing appetite suppressants with other weight loss drugs can heighten the chances of adverse effects. This stimulant’s usage alongside a type of antidepressant can result in severe interactions.⁹

Certain lipase inhibitors, meanwhile, can lower the absorption of ciclosporin, an immunosuppressant. It also has the potential to alter the action of blood thinners.¹⁰

Chemist2U offers home delivery of eligible medications and other pharmacy products.

Chemist2U provides home delivery services for medications prescribed by your doctor.

You can download our app or use the website to upload your eScript. You can also browse a wide selection of over-the-counter medications and general pharmacy goods, just like you would in a physical pharmacy. From there, your prescription will be reviewed and filled by a trusted partner pharmacist before being delivered straight to your door.

Same-day delivery, Express Post and Click & Collect options are available, subject to your location.

Chemist2U offers convenient home delivery services for eligible medications. Get started today.

Important note: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not advertise or promote the use of any prescription medication, including weight loss drugs. Prescription medications can only be accessed after a clinical consultation with an authorised medical practitioner. All prescriptions are issued at the discretion of the consulting doctor in accordance with Australian medical guidelines.