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Health Advice
Explore expert health articles written by New Zealand doctors, featuring trusted information on common medical conditions, symptoms, and treatments.

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How Online GP Consults Help with Anxiety Support
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns in New Zealand, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. But even though anxiety is widespread, getting timely support isn’t always easy. Long waitlists, limited local services, and the pressure of in-person appointments can stop many people from reaching out when they need help most. Online GP consults are changing that. Virtual care makes it easier, faster, and more comfortable to access anxiety support — all wi
Dec 12, 20253 min read


How to Manage a Tooth Infection Before It Gets Worse
A tooth infection isn’t something you can ignore. What starts as mild discomfort can quickly turn into severe pain, swelling, or even a dental emergency if left untreated. In New Zealand, dental care can be costly and difficult to access at short notice, which means many people aren’t sure what to do when symptoms first appear. The good news is that early action makes a huge difference. If you recognise the signs of a tooth infection and know how to manage it safely, you can
Dec 9, 20254 min read


PrEP in New Zealand: Who Should Consider It and How to Access It
HIV prevention has come a long way in Aotearoa. Today, one of the most effective tools available is PrEP — a daily or event-based medication that significantly reduces your risk of acquiring HIV. Whether you’re exploring your options for the first time or want clarity on how PrEP works in New Zealand, this guide breaks down who it’s for, how it protects you, and the steps to access it safely. What Is PrEP and How Does It Work? Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive
Dec 5, 20254 min read


PrEP vs DoxyPEP: What’s the Difference?
HIV and STI prevention in New Zealand has evolved rapidly, giving you more tools than ever to protect your sexual health. Two of the most effective options today are PrEP and DoxyPEP — but they work very differently. If you’re trying to understand which option is right for you, this guide breaks down the key differences, who should consider each, and how to access them safely in Aotearoa. What Is PrEP? PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a daily or event-based medication tak
Dec 1, 20254 min read


What to Eat When Taking Weight Loss Medication
Weight loss medications like Wegovy (semaglutide) have opened new doors for New Zealanders struggling with weight loss. But while these treatments are effective, they work best when paired with the right nutritional habits. If you're taking a GLP-1 medication like Wegovy or considering it through a program like Pocket Lab's weight loss treatments , understanding what to eat is essential to achieving healthy, sustainable results. Why Nutrition Still Matters When Taking Medica
Nov 28, 20253 min read


6 Effective Tips for Women’s Weight Loss in NZ
Losing weight isn’t just about cutting calories or hitting the gym more often. For women, it can be a complex journey influenced by hormones, life stages, medical conditions, and lifestyle stressors. That’s why the most effective weight loss strategies take a personalised, evidence-based approach — one that understands the female body and supports it long-term. Here are six medically informed and practical tips to support women on their weight loss journey, especially in a Ne
Nov 27, 20253 min read


Are There Any Funded Weight Loss Programs in NZ?
When it comes to managing obesity in New Zealand, the reality is that many people struggle to access affordable treatment. With rising rates of obesity-related health conditions, demand for medical support is high — but funded options are limited. In this article, we’ll break down what publicly funded weight loss programs do exist in Aotearoa, what the eligibility criteria are, and how private options like Pocket Lab provide alternative pathways to safe and effective weight l
Nov 25, 20253 min read


Comparing Oral vs. Injectable Semaglutide for Weight Loss
As more New Zealanders explore medical options for managing obesity, semaglutide has become a widely discussed tool. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, this GLP-1 receptor agonist is now approved and used for effective weight loss — helping to regulate appetite, reduce cravings, and support long-term lifestyle change. Semaglutide is available in both oral and injectable forms, but which one is right for you? This guide explores the key differences, benefits, and c
Nov 21, 20253 min read


How Online Weight Loss Care Plans Provide Safe, Effective Support
Modern life in New Zealand can make it hard to lose weight. Between busy work schedules, family responsibilities, and limited access to in-person clinics, many people struggle to get consistent, reliable support. That’s where online weight loss care plans come in—offering a convenient, safe, and medically supported way to achieve your goals. If you’re considering medications like Wegovy or Mounjaro, or you’re simply looking for structured help beyond "diet and exercise," a vi
Nov 19, 20253 min read


Medical Weight Loss vs. DIY Dieting: Which Is Best For You?
If you’ve ever tried to lose weight on your own, you’re not alone. Kiwis spend millions every year on gym memberships, fad diets, supplements, and other weight loss routines. Yet, for many people, these DIY approaches don’t lead to lasting results on their own. In contrast, medical weight loss programs offer a structured, clinically supervised alternative that can deliver better, safer outcomes—especially for those struggling with long-term weight issues or obesity. So what’
Nov 17, 20253 min read


Wegovy vs Ozempic: Key Differences Explained
Semaglutide has taken the world by storm as a leading weight loss and diabetes medication. In New Zealand, Wegovy and Ozempic are often mentioned in the same breath — and for good reason: they’re both based on the same active ingredient. But they’re not the same medication. If you’ve been exploring medical weight loss options, this article will help you understand the key differences between Wegovy and Ozempic, and which might be right for you. What Do Wegovy and Ozempic Ha
Nov 14, 20253 min read


Obesity: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors
Obesity is one of the most pressing health concerns in New Zealand today, with rates continuing to climb across all age groups. While it’s often talked about in terms of weight, obesity is a complex medical condition that affects nearly every aspect of a person’s health—from cardiovascular risk to mental wellbeing. Understanding what causes obesity, the early symptoms, and its long-term implications can empower you to take control of your health, especially with the support o
Nov 14, 20254 min read


Ozempic in NZ: How to Get a Prescription Online
Looking to lose weight with the help of medication? You’ve probably heard about Ozempic, the weekly injection that’s made headlines for its impressive weight-loss results. While Ozempic isn’t available in New Zealand for weight management, the same active ingredient — semaglutide — made by the same company, is available under a different brand name: Wegovy. At Pocket Lab, we make it easy to get assessed and prescribed online by a registered NZ doctor — no clinic visit needed.
Oct 26, 20253 min read


Online GP NZ (2025): How to See a Doctor Online Today
When you can’t get in to your usual GP, Online GP Care makes it simple to talk to a New Zealand-registered doctor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for common issues like coughs, rashes, medical certificates , and prescriptions . Some people — such as under-14s and Community Services Card holders — qualify for reduced or no fees. If it’s an emergency, call 111. Chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke symptoms, severe bleeding, anaphylaxis, major burns, or mental-health crisis al
Oct 16, 20252 min read


Wegovy® Side Effects: What You Really Need to Know
I’m Dr Cole Rudolph, a GP with Pocket Lab. Through our weight loss program, I prescribe and support many people on Wegovy® (semaglutide)....
Sep 30, 20252 min read
STI Test NZ: How to Order Online via Pocket Lab
Maintaining sexual health is crucial for your overall well-being. Regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a key step in keeping yourself safe and healthy. In New Zealand, you can now access STI testing with ease through innovative online services like Pocket Lab. This guide will help you navigate the process of ordering an STI test online, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a seamless experience. Request an STI test now via Pocket Lab Un
Sep 30, 20253 min read


How to Use the Wegovy Pen in New Zealand: Step-by-Step
Introduction If you’ve been prescribed Wegovy® in New Zealand, you’ll be using a once-weekly FlexTouch® pen . For many Kiwis, injecting...
Sep 18, 20253 min read


What is Wegovy and How Does it Work in New Zealand?
Introduction Wegovy (semaglutide) is a once-weekly prescription medicine now available in New Zealand for adults and adolescents...
Sep 18, 20253 min read


Wegovy vs Mounjaro in New Zealand: What to Know in 2025
Medicines like Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Saxenda and Victoza are part of a new generation of treatments for weight loss and...
Sep 9, 20252 min read


Switching from Saxenda to Wegovy: What You Should Know
Many people using Saxenda (liraglutide) for weight loss are now considering a switch to Wegovy (semaglutide). Both medicines belong to...
Sep 2, 20252 min read
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