What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide at doses up to 1mg, manufactured by Novo Nordisk. It's TGA-approved for type 2 diabetes management — not weight loss. It works through the same GLP-1 mechanism as Wegovy but at a lower dose (1mg vs 2.4mg).
Before the October 2024 restrictions, Ozempic was widely prescribed "off-label" for weight loss because it was cheaper and more available than Wegovy. This off-label demand created severe supply shortages for diabetes patients who needed the medication, prompting government intervention.
Why was it restricted?
The massive global demand for semaglutide — driven largely by weight loss prescribing — left many Australians with type 2 diabetes unable to access their medication. Supply shortages affected pharmacies nationwide from 2022 onwards. In response:
- The Australian government restricted new off-label prescriptions specifically for weight loss
- Existing patients on Ozempic for weight loss may continue under their doctor's guidance
- Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg) was approved as the dedicated weight loss version
Full off-label restrictions explainer →
Ozempic for diabetes (still available)
If you have type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is still fully available and PBS-subsidised:
| Details | |
|---|---|
| PBS price | ~$41.30 per script ($7.70 concession) |
| Doses available | 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg |
| Injection frequency | Once weekly |
| Average weight loss | ~15% (at 1mg dose, off-label data) |
Ozempic vs Wegovy
| Ozempic | Wegovy | |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide | Semaglutide |
| Maximum dose | 1mg/week | 2.4mg/week |
| Approved for | Type 2 diabetes | Weight management + CV risk |
| Average weight loss | ~15% | 15–17% |
| PBS | Yes (diabetes) | Pending (BMI ≥35 + CVD) |
| Available for weight loss? | Restricted | Yes |
Wegovy is effectively the "weight loss version" of Ozempic — same manufacturer, same ingredient, higher dose, and actually approved for weight management.
Full Ozempic vs Wegovy comparison →
Your alternatives for weight loss
Wegovy
Same ingredient (semaglutide) at higher dose (2.4mg). TGA-approved for weight loss. 15–17% avg weight loss. PBS listing pending.
Wegovy guide →Mounjaro
Dual-action tirzepatide. Higher avg weight loss (~21%). TGA-approved for weight management. No PBS prospect.
Mounjaro guide →Side effects
Ozempic shares the same side effect profile as Wegovy (both are semaglutide), though some side effects may be less intense at the lower 1mg dose. Common effects include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain — mostly during dose escalation.
Supply situation
Ozempic supply has improved since the peak shortages of 2022–2023, but intermittent disruptions continue. The restrictions on off-label prescribing have helped protect supply for diabetes patients.