Weekly Health Insights: Your local team of Bondi doctors & GPs at Ocean Medical – Bondi’s local Medical Centre discuss injectable weight loss medications.
In recent years, injectable weight loss medications have taken the health world and Hollywood—by storm. With rising obesity rates and increased demand for medically supervised weight management, more Australians are exploring these options.
At Ocean Medical – Bondi’s local medical centre on Bondi Road, our experienced female GPs provide holistic support for patients seeking safe, effective weight loss solutions. Whether you’re curious about new treatments or looking to take control of your health, our Bondi doctors GP team are here to help.
What Are the Injectable Weight Loss Medications?
There are several types of injectable medications currently on the market for weight management. The most commonly talked about medications you may have heard of is Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda and Mounjaro. We outline the main ones below:
🧪 Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)
- Ozempic and Wegovy are GLP-1 analogues. The active ingredient is semaglutide.
- It is the most well-known among celebrities and influencers
- Originally used for type 2 diabetes, now semaglutide is also approved for weight loss.
- Wegovy is marketed as a weight loss medication, medically indicated for chronic weight management for patients who are overweight with at least one other related co-morbidity such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol.
- Ozempic has an ongoing shortage in supply in Australia. The shortage is expected to continue until at least the end of 2025 due to off label prescribed for weight loss.
- The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) last year issued firm advice to GPs to not initiate new patients on Ozempic due to its short supply, and that is showing no signs of easing any time soon. The advise remains at this time due to supply shortages.
- The price of Wegovy is also higher than Ozempic, varying between $150 to $400 per month.
🧪 Liraglutide (Saxenda)
- A daily injection used for weight loss in adults and teens over 12.
- The medication has been available several years earlier than GLP-1 analogue semaglutide.
- Saxenda is medially indicated and TGA approved for weight management.
🧪 Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) (not yet PBS-listed in Australia but gaining attention globally)
- Tirzapetide is approved for weight management and control of type 2 diabetes
- Combines GLP-1 and GIP hormone actions
- Emerging evidence shows even greater weight loss results
These medications have gained widespread attention, with public figures and celebrities like Elon Musk and Oprah Winfrey reportedly discussing their experiences with semaglutide-based medications.
How Do GLP-1 Analogues Like Semaglutide Work?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) analogues mimic a hormone naturally produced in the gut. They work by:
- Slowing gastric emptying, helping you feel fuller for longer
- Reducing appetite and food cravings
- Regulating insulin and glucose levels
These actions lead to reduced calorie intake and, when combined with lifestyle changes, significant and sustained weight loss.
Beyond Weight Loss: The Extra Health Benefits of GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications are not just for the scales—they offer broader metabolic improvements:
- ✅ Improved blood sugar control
- ✅ Lower risk of cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes
- ✅ Reduction in fatty liver (NAFLD) – a growing concern among Australians
- ✅ Possible improvements in PCOS symptoms in some patients
- ✅ Reduced inflammation and improved cholesterol levels
At Ocean Medical Practice, our Bondi doctors and GPs can discuss these benefits and guide personalised plans that promote long-term health—not just short-term weight loss.
What Are the Risks of Injectable Weight Loss Medications?
While many patients tolerate GLP-1s well, they do come with potential risks:
- ❗ Nausea and gastrointestinal upset (most common side effects)
- ❗ Pancreatitis (rare but serious)
- ❗ Gallbladder disease
- ❗ Muscle loss if weight loss is too rapid
- ❗ Medication supply shortages affecting availability in Australia
That’s why close medical supervision from experienced Bondi GPs and doctors is essential. Our female doctors on Bondi Road work with you to monitor for side effects, adjust dosing, and incorporate nutrition and exercise plans that complement medication.
Whats new on the horizon in 2025?
A NEW ORAL GLP-1 is showing promise in successful Phase 3 trials.
Orforglipron – Lilly’s oral GLP-1, orforglipron, demonstrated statistically significant efficacy results and a safety profile consistent with injectable GLP-1 medicines in successful Phase 3 trial. A new oral once daily weight loss medication may be available soon.
How Bondi Doctors at Ocean Medical Practice Support Weight Management
At Ocean Medical Practice, we take a holistic and compassionate approach to weight care:
- 🩺 Initial assessments including blood tests and body composition scans
- 🩺 Nutritional guidance tailored to your goals
- 🩺 Exercise and movement coaching
- 🩺 Behavioural counselling to support sustainable habits
- 🩺 Medication review to ensure safety and suitability
We believe in working with you—not just prescribing. Our female GPs bring a caring, supportive approach to weight management without judgment or pressure.
How Bondi Residents Can Do Their Part to Stay Healthy
Sustainable health is a community effort. Here’s how you can stay healthy and support others:
- 🍎 Prioritise balanced meals and portion control
- 🏃♀️ Engage in daily movement, even light walking
- 🤝 Support friends and family with positive, healthy encouragement
- 📅 Book regular health check-ups to catch concerns early
- 💬 Discuss any body image or mental health struggles with a GP
Our team at Ocean Medical Practice offers a safe, inclusive space where your health journey is respected and supported.
Book a Consultation with Our Female GPs in Bondi
At Ocean Medical Practice, Bondi’s local medical centre, our team of female GPs on Bondi Road are experienced in managing medical weight loss, diabetes care, and preventative health. If you’re considering injectable medications or want support with healthy weight moderation, we’re here to guide you safely and professionally.
Whether you’re searching for:
- Doctors on Bondi Road
- Medical Centre on Bondi Road
- Bondi GP
- Bondi doctors
- A local GP near you
Our team of professional Bondi gps and doctors provide expert care and compassionate support at Ocean Medical – Bondi Medical Centre.
Your health is a long-term journey, not a quick fix. Let’s take the next step together—book your appointment with our Bondi GPs today.
