Some people searching for ‘fat loss injections’ online may be looking for information about prescription medications. While the term is used online, it is not a recognised medical category in Australia.
In reality, prescription shots approved in Australia for weight management do not specifically target fat alone. Instead, they work toward weight management more broadly, often by acting on biological pathways related to appetite, digestion or energy balance. These medications belong to drug classes such as GLP-1 receptor agonists or dual agonists.
There are different types of injections for weight management, each with its own intended use. If you’re prescribed this category of medication, Chemist2U can help by delivering your prescription medications to your doorstep.
To support your discussions with your doctor, we also provide factual, general information below about prescription weight management injections and how they are prescribed under medical supervision in Australia.
How do prescription weight management injections work?
Medications used for weight management in Australia may work by affecting appetite control, digestion and how the body uses energy. Some of the weight management prescription medication options in this category may belong to drug classes such as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These can mimic glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that can affect appetite and digestion.1
On the other hand, others may also act on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which affects appetite control by increasing insulin release and lowering glucagon levels. These pathways can impact how slowly food moves through the digestive system and how the body regulates insulin and glucose levels.2
It is important to note, however, that these prescription medications are only available following a consultation with a doctor, who can determine their suitability based on your individual health needs.
How do you use these injections?
In addition to understanding how prescription weight management injections work, it’s also important to keep in mind the proper way of administering them.
Prescription weight management injections are typically administered subcutaneously or under the skin. In most cases, they are supplied in a prefilled pen device, which are not for sharing.3
Keep in mind that the solution must be clear and free of particles. Any discolouration could mean it can no longer be used.4 For correct storage and administration instructions, refer to the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) that comes with your medication or speak with your doctor.
It’s essential to follow the specific dosing schedule for each injection as prescribed by your doctor. This is also true for any other weight management medication you are prescribed. It’s because instructions for use vary depending on the medication prescribed and your individual treatment plan.
Doctors can also provide guidance on proper administration technique and may recommend regular follow-ups to monitor your response to the treatment. For additional information, you may refer to the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) provided with your prescription to have more informed discussions with your health professional.
Who can use weight management injections?
Doctors may prescribe medications in this category for individuals with obesity or those who meet certain health criteria. Suitability is typically assessed based on body mass index (BMI), age and the presence of any weight-related medical conditions.
This means a person may be assessed for treatment by a doctor if they have a BMI over a certain threshold, particularly when associated with conditions like Type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol. Children and adolescents may also be eligible in certain cases, depending on the medication. However, not all medications are approved for individuals under 18.
It is up to your doctor to determine eligibility. So, it’s important to consult your doctor and ensure that they are aware of your medical history, medication use and health conditions so that they can make an informed decision about your suitability for a prescription.
Additionally, some weight management medications are listed on the PBS. However, PBS eligibility depends on a person’s Medicare status and the validity of the prescription they received from a registered medical practitioner.
Weight management injections and other medications
Like many prescription treatments, weight management injections may interact with other medicines. This includes medications for diabetes, blood pressure or digestive conditions.
For instance, some prescription medications in this category can influence blood sugar levels when combined with diabetes medications. Doctors may adjust doses to minimise the hypoglycemia risk. The same goes for other drugs, like anticoagulants, some blood pressure medications and specific HIV treatments.5
Some medications in this category may also slow gastric emptying, which can affect the absorption of other oral medicines. This can be especially important if you’re taking birth control pills or other medications that require precise absorption.6
If you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, or supplements, it’s essential to inform your doctor. This allows them to determine if adjustments are needed and monitor for any potential interactions.
Medicines that might not be used with weight management injections
Doctors may advise against combining certain prescription medications in this category with other injectable treatments. For instance, combining different types of GLP-1 receptor agonists or using these with insulin may not be appropriate unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
Each medication has its own potential for interaction and contraindication, so any treatment must be reviewed by a qualified medical practitioner.
How to order home delivery with Chemist2U
Chemist2U is committed to making your medication easy. Start by placing your order on this website or through the Chemist2U app. Here, you can securely transfer your prescription directly to a qualified pharmacist, who then prepares your order for delivery right to your doorstep by our dedicated delivery partners.
Beyond prescriptions, you will find a range of over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products, enabling you to add any extra essentials to your basket with ease.
We don’t stop at delivery. With My Scripts, Chemist2U also keeps you on top of your scripts and refills with handy reminders for reordering or renewing prescriptions and ensuring that when it’s time for a refill, you’re never caught out.
Get started with Chemist2U 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 fat loss injections. 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.
References
1. https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2024-CMI-02192-1
2. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a622044.html
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK572151/
4. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618008.html#how
5. https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2016-CMI-01009-1
6. https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2023-CMI-02113-1