Quick answer: Wegovy (semaglutide) is available in NZ but not funded, so it’s paid privately at the pharmacy. Typical out-of-pocket is around the mid-hundreds per month. Prices vary by pharmacy, dose in use, and courier/dispensing fees—always confirm locally before you start.
Wegovy in NZ: the essentials
- What it is: Once-weekly semaglutide for weight loss and weight maintenance. Also used to reduce cardiovascular risk in specific adults with established heart disease.
- Who it’s for: Adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or BMI ≥27 with weight-related conditions, and adolescents ≥12 years where appropriate—clinical assessment required.
- Prescription only: You need a clinician to assess suitability and prescribe.
- Availability: Wegovy launched in NZ in July 2025; supply and retail price are set by pharmacies.
Typical price ranges (update monthly)
| Medication | Usual maintenance dose | Typical monthly range (NZD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy (semaglutide) | Up to 2.4 mg weekly (after titration) | ~$450–$600 | Retail price & fees vary by pharmacy and supply. Confirm before filling. |
Tip: Keep ranges broad unless you’ve verified current pricing with the exact pharmacy you’ll use.
What actually affects your monthly cost
- Dose & titration: Costs can rise at higher maintenance doses.
- Pharmacy pricing & fees: Retail price, dispensing fee, and courier differ by pharmacy.
- Consults & monitoring: Telehealth fees, follow-ups, and any labs are separate from medicine cost.
- Stock & demand: Supply constraints can change availability and price.
How it works with Vital Health
- Secure booking → complete a short online form (how it works).
- Telehealth consult with a lifestyle-medicine GP → suitability, plan, and prescription if appropriate (GLP-1 telehealth consult).
- Personalised plan for nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress → tailored follow-up (lifestyle medicine | pricing | about Dr Adrian Laurence).
Thinking about Wegovy with proper medical support?
Book a telehealth consult. If it’s right for you, we’ll prescribe and support you with a full lifestyle plan and follow-up.
Safety, side-effects & red flags (short version)
Common effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea/constipation—often improve with slower titration, smaller meals and hydration. Rare but serious risks exist (e.g., gallbladder issues, pancreatitis). Review the official Medsafe information and seek urgent care for concerning symptoms.
FAQs
How much does Wegovy cost per month in NZ?
Expect mid-hundreds per month (often ~$450–$600), paid directly to the pharmacy. Confirm your local price and fees before starting.
Is Wegovy funded by Pharmac?
No. Wegovy is not funded in NZ at this time, so patients pay the full pharmacy price plus any fees.
Do I need a prescription for Wegovy?
Yes. A clinician must assess your health, review contraindications and interactions, and prescribe if appropriate, with planned follow-up.
Who is eligible to use Wegovy?
Clinical assessment is required. Generally: adults with BMI ≥30, or ≥27 with weight-related conditions; adolescents ≥12 years can be considered in some cases under specialist guidance.
How fast will I see results?
Weight changes vary. Dose is slowly increased to improve tolerability. Your clinician will set goals and adjust based on progress and side-effects.
Disclaimer: Educational information only, not personal medical advice. Always consult your own clinician.