Cheapest ≠ best value
The cheapest medications (Xenical, Duromine) produce the least weight loss. When you calculate cost per percentage point of weight lost, the expensive GLP-1 injections actually offer competitive value:
| Medication | Year 1 cost | Avg. % lost | Cost per 1% lost | Value rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duromine | ~$300 | 7.5% | $40 | ★★★★★ |
| Mounjaro | ~$5,100 | 21% | $243 | ★★★★ |
| Xenical | ~$1,000 | 4% | $250 | ★★★ |
| Wegovy | ~$4,500 | 16% | $281 | ★★★★ |
| Contrave | ~$3,600 | 7.5% | $480 | ★★ |
Duromine offers the best cost-per-percentage but only works for 12 weeks. For long-term treatment, Mounjaro and Wegovy offer the best value despite higher monthly costs.
If Wegovy gets PBS listed
The equation changes dramatically. At ~$31.60/script, PBS-subsidised Wegovy would cost approximately $380/year — making it by far the cheapest AND one of the most effective options. However, the eligibility criteria are narrow (BMI ≥35 + cardiovascular disease).
Ways to reduce costs
- Compare telehealth providers — prices vary by $50–100/month for the same medication
- Use discount pharmacies for e-scripts (Chemist Warehouse is typically cheapest)
- Discuss dose optimisation — some patients maintain results on a lower dose
- Start with Duromine as a $300 kickstart, then transition to a GLP-1
- Check PBS eligibility — Ozempic for diabetes, Wegovy when listed