Weight loss medication refers to prescription or over-the-counter drugs that assist in managing overweight or obesity by helping reduce body weight, when combined with healthy eating and physical activity. These can target appetite, fat absorption, and/or metabolic hormones. 

In Australia, the most commonly prescribed weight loss medications are GLP-1 agonists, which are recommended for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher, or 27 kg/m² with conditions related to overweight (such as osteoarthritis, PCOS, Obstructive Sleep Apnoea). They’re an adjunct to lifestyle changes, not a standalone fix. At Doctors for Weight Loss (powered by Qoctor), our online doctors can assess if this treatment is right for you.

Reference and further patient resources

https://mydr.com.au/nutrition-weight/weight-loss-medication/

https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/medicines-for-long-term-obesity-management.html