Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved Wegovy in tablet form, making it the first GLP-1 medicine specifically for weight management available as a pill in the country. The medication, containing semaglutide, mimics a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar, appetite, and digestion.
Wegovy tablets are designed to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness by acting on the brain and digestive system, slowing the stomach's emptying rate. This can help individuals feel satisfied with smaller portions and reduce cravings. The drug is intended for adults with obesity or those who are overweight and have weight-related health issues. It may also be prescribed for individuals with cardiovascular disease to lower the risk of heart attack or stroke. However, it is not intended as a quick fix for minor weight loss.
The new daily tablet requires a specific administration: taken on an empty stomach with a small amount of water, followed by a 30-minute waiting period before eating or drinking anything other than water. This formulation includes an absorption aid to protect the semaglutide from stomach acid. In contrast, the injectable form can be administered weekly at any time of day.
Common side effects, affecting about 80% of users, include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, and constipation. Less common but more serious potential side effects encompass kidney injury, pancreatitis, and gallbladder problems. Higher doses can intensify these side effects. As with injections, doubling the dose is not recommended and could be harmful. The article notes that healthcare provider appointments may sometimes lack sufficient screening for psychological issues, such as eating disorders or body image concerns, which could lead to negative outcomes, especially given previous research linking GLP-1 use to suicidal thoughts.
Manufacturer Novo Nordisk anticipates having the Wegovy tablets available in Australia by the end of the year. While TGA approval allows for prescription, it does not guarantee government subsidy. Wegovy is not currently listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for weight management, meaning patients will likely bear the full cost. The weekly injection form costs between A$250 and A$450 per month, and out-of-pocket costs for the tablet are expected to be similar.
Experts emphasize that Wegovy is not a standalone solution and is intended for use alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. The TGA's approval also mandates that the medication be part of a broader health plan guided by a healthcare professional. Failure to adopt lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and regular exercise, can lead to weight regain after discontinuing the medication, with studies showing individuals regaining about two-thirds of lost weight within a year of stopping. Trials indicate comparable weight loss rates between the tablet and injection forms, with approximately 14-15% body weight loss over extended periods. However, the tablet's effectiveness relies on daily adherence and adherence to the pre-consumption guidelines, whereas the injection requires weekly administration.