Cost varies quite a bit, and it’s one of the first things worth understanding before you start. Prescription weight loss medications are not currently subsidised on the PBS when prescribed for weight management alone, which means you pay the private price. That price depends on the specific medication, the dose you’re on, and the pharmacy. Pharmacies set their own prices, so it pays to check and see if you can get a better price. For most people, ongoing medication is the main cost- typically in the hundreds of dollars per month if it’s a GLP-1 agonist.
On top of the medication itself, you need to budget for the doctor’s consultation ($59.99 at Doctors For Weight Loss, with no subscription or lock-in required). Once you are established, typically a doctor’s review may only be needed every few months. Some other services may bundle the doctor’s fee into a subscription and delivery, so you may need to work out the overall cost to compare providers.
There are some pharmacist-only and over-the-counter products available at lower prices, but the evidence for these is much weaker than for more recent prescription treatments.
Because costs differ so much between medications, your doctor can give you a realistic picture for the specific option being considered . It’s worth asking about this directly at your consultation, before you commit to anything.
Looking for ongoing, doctor-led weight-loss care? Doctors for Weight Loss — part of the Qoctor group — provides individualised programs by video with Australian GPs, dietitians and psychologists. No subscription: you book and pay per consultation, only when you need it. View consultation options at Doctors for Weight Loss