Home delivery of Ozempic – benefits and considerations

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic, or semaglutide, is a prescription medication in Australia for managing type 2 diabetes. Taken as a weekly injection, it lowers blood sugar by boosting insulin production.

How much does Ozempic cost? 

The price paid for Ozempic varies dramatically subject to the Medicare status of the patient and the condition for which it has been prescribed.    

Currently, Ozempic is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the treatment of diabetes only. This means the cost per prescription for people with diabetes is $31.60 (or $7.30 for Concession Cardholders).

Whereas the cost per Ozempic injection pen with a private prescription typically ranges from $140 to $200. This price applies to use of Ozempic for reasons other than diabetes, such as weight loss. 

Delivery of Ozempic typically costs around $20, which includes transportation in an insulated box to maintain temperature.

How does Ozempic (Semaglutide) work?

Those who’ve searched for ‘semaglutide Australia’ will typically find brands like Ozempic online. Semaglutide is available in Australia for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy. It functions as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, helping regulate blood sugar and appetite. Availability is subject to prescription, and demand has caused periodic shortages.

Semaglutide, used to treat type 2 diabetes, works by imitating the role of a hormone known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Naturally crafted in our gut, GLP-1 prompts the pancreas to release insulin, thus managing blood sugar levels.

As a GLP-1 mimic, similarly, Ozempic binds to and activates GLP-1 receptors in your body, signaling your pancreas to release insulin. This insulin release is critical for decreasing blood sugar levels.

Ozempic slows gastric emptying,– the process by which food exits the stomach and enters the small intestine – helping manage blood sugar levels after meals. 

Despite it only being prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes, there is much interest in Ozempic online and home delivery. For instance, those looking up terms like ‘metformin Australia’ may wish to learn about Ozempic for type 2 diabetes, blood sugar management and home delivery.

Ozempic for weight loss

In Australia, Ozempic is not officially approved for weight loss. It is only approved in Australia for managing type 2 diabetes. However, there is a semaglutide product that has been approved for chronic weight management for adults and adolescents called Wegovy.

How do you take Ozempic (Semaglutide)?

The medication comes in a ready-to-use pen that delivers a subcutaneous injection (just below the skin) in your thigh, abdomen or upper arm. It’s important to disinfect the injection site with an alcohol pad and allow it to air-dry before injecting. Simply follow the steps outlined with your Ozempic pen to ensure correct and safe injection penetration.

Since it’s a weekly prescription injection, it should be administered on the same day every week. The dose, which will be determined by your doctor, will be based on your unique medical history and individual needs. 

A 3 ml Ozempic pen in Australia contains semaglutide in a clear, colourless solution for injection. Each pen delivers doses of 1 mg per injection. A single pre-filled pen contains 4 mg of semaglutide.

Lastly, after you’ve bought Ozempic online or in-store and administered it, remember to dispose of the pen and needles responsibly in the appropriate container.

There are no Ozempic pills approved in Australia as of yet. It is currently available only as an injectable medication for managing type 2 diabetes. 

Who can take Ozempic? 

Ozempic is not available over the counter in Australia. It requires a prescription from a doctor, which is generally provided as part of a treatment plan for type 2 diabetes.[1] It has also proven beneficial for those who, following bariatric surgery, have not achieved the desired weight loss or are regaining weight.[2] 

In addition, semaglutide is currently under evaluation as a treatment option for patients living with both type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.[3] 

Side effects of Ozempic

Using Ozempic may cause mild-to-moderate digestive discomforts such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which are typically temporary in nature. Some people may also experience local reactions at the injection site, like redness, swelling, or itching, and in rare instances, allergic responses.[4] Other common side effects include reflux, abdominal pain and fatigue.

In some patient groups it may increase the incidence of retinopathy (eye disease) complications. 

It is important to be aware of the potential side effects of Ozempic and to consult with your doctor if you experience these side effects. 

How much is Ozempic in Australia?

In Australia, the cost of Ozempic varies based on eligibility for the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Under the PBS, eligible diabetes patients pay around $31.60 per prescription, while concession card holders pay approximately $7.70. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on individual eligibility and pharmacy policies.

On the other hand, the cost of Ozempic with a private prescription in Australia can range from $140 to $200.

Delivery of Ozempic typically costs around $20, which includes transportation in an insulated box to maintain temperature.

Ozempic and other medications

During your consultation with your healthcare provider, it’s crucial to provide your current medication details when discussing treatments with Ozempic. This extends beyond discussing your prescription medications and includes vitamins and over-the-counter supplements that form part of your daily regimen. 

It’s understandable – managing chronic illness and maintaining open communication with a doctor can be challenging. However, you should remember that every piece of information matters and that they’re there to support you. 

Medicines you should not use with Ozempic

It’s essential to share with your physician if you’re currently on insulin or sulfonylurea medications, such as glibenclamide or glimepiride. Prolonged, simultaneous use of these medicines alongside Ozempic could potentially lead to hypoglycemia – a significant decrease in your blood sugar levels.[5] 

We know navigating the world of chronic illness can feel overwhelming, and learning about topics like ‘Ozempic online Australia’ or perhaps thinking about questions like ‘Where to get Ozempic?’ and ‘Is there an Ozempic online pharmacy near me?’ can add to all the stress you’re facing.

However, you can maintain balance and achieve optimal health outcomes through clear communication with your doctor. Reach out if you’re not certain how the medicines, vitamins or supplements you’re taking may interact with Ozempic.

How to dispose of Ozempic

Ozempic comes in a pen with a needle and you should avoid discarding the used needle in the regular rubbish bin. Instead, securely place it in a sealed container or a sharps bin. You can buy these online from Chemist2U.

How to order Ozempic through Chemist2U

To get Ozempic in Australia, you need a doctor’s prescription. Once prescribed, you can purchase Ozempic at a pharmacy. For eligible patients, it may be subsidised under the PBS, reducing the cost significantly.

But you can take the hassle out of your medication with Chemist2U. Here’s how it works:

• Access Chemist2U services via our app or website for prescription management. You can download our app from the App Store or Google Play . You can also order through the website. 
• Upload your prescriptions online. Just enter your address and contact details, and upload your prescription. 
• Add other products. Need more than just your prescription medication? You can also add over-the-counter medications as well as other products that you would expect at a typical community pharmacy. 
• Dispensing by pharmacists. Rest assured, your order will be carefully filled by a qualified pharmacist from a partner pharmacy.
• Home delivery. Chemist2U offers delivery services for a wide range of prescription medications, with same day delivery, Express Post and Click & Collect available, subject to your location.

For any order-related concerns, contact our customer service team using the web chat icon at the bottom right of this page.

Chemist2U offers convenient options for managing your prescriptions, so order home delivery of your medication with us today!

Please Note: Chemist2U does not endorse or promote the therapeutic benefit of any medication. Any decision to administer a therapeutic good should be taken in consultation with your doctor.