Ozempic in New Zealand
Semaglutide · Weekly injection · prescription-only
Last reviewed: June 2026
Important: Ozempic is a prescription-only medicine and is not suitable for everyone. This page is general information, not medical advice. Speak to a registered prescriber before starting any medicine. Pricing is indicative — confirm the current price and funding with your prescriber and pharmacy.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand of semaglutide, a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics a natural gut hormone that helps regulate appetite and slows how quickly the stomach empties, which can help some people feel fuller for longer. In New Zealand it is approved for type 2 diabetes and is used off-label for weight management alongside diet and lifestyle change, under medical supervision.
Regulatory status: Ozempic is Medsafe-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is also used off-label for weight management under a registered prescriber. It is not funded by Pharmac for weight loss.
What it costs in New Zealand
- Ozempic (medicine) — indicative monthly$450 - $700
- Initial consultation$80 - $250
Indicative private pricing — not Pharmac-funded for weight loss. Prices vary by pharmacy and supply.
Who might be eligible?
Eligibility is decided by a prescriber based on your individual health. Guidelines commonly consider GLP-1 medicines for adults with a BMI of 30 or over, or 27 or over with a weight-related health condition, alongside diet and lifestyle changes.
How to access Ozempic in NZ
- Book a consultation with your GP or a weight-management clinic.
- Your prescriber assesses whether Ozempic is appropriate for you.
- If prescribed, it is dispensed by a pharmacy (paid privately).
- Ongoing reviews monitor your dose, progress and any side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ozempic available in New Zealand?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription-only medicine in New Zealand. A registered prescriber must assess whether it is appropriate for you before it can be prescribed and dispensed at a pharmacy.
How much does Ozempic cost in NZ?
Indicative private pricing is around $450 - $700 per month for the medicine, plus a consultation (from $80 - $250). Ozempic is not funded by Pharmac for weight loss, so weight-management use is paid privately. Medication pricing is indicative and varies by pharmacy and supply — confirm the current price with your pharmacy.
How is Ozempic taken?
Ozempic is given as a weekly injection. Your prescriber will start you on a low dose and adjust it over time while monitoring how you respond and tolerate it.
Who can be prescribed Ozempic?
Eligibility is decided by your prescriber based on your individual health. International guidelines commonly consider GLP-1 medicines for adults with a BMI of 30 or over, or 27 or over with a weight-related health condition, alongside diet and lifestyle change. This is general information, not medical advice.
What are the side effects of Ozempic?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation and reduced appetite, which often ease over time. There are also less common but more serious risks. Your prescriber will discuss the benefits and risks for your situation and monitor you during treatment.